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Surgical Pathology Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This role plays a critical part in supporting diagnostic services through surgical pathology ... This is an excellent opportunity for a Pathology Assistant who enjoys a mix of grossing, and ...

This role plays a critical part in supporting diagnostic services through surgical pathology ... This is an excellent opportunity for a Pathology Assistant who enjoys a mix of grossing, and ...

This role plays a critical part in supporting diagnostic services through surgical pathology ... This is an excellent opportunity for a Pathology Assistant who enjoys a mix of grossing, and ...

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Surgical Pathology Assistant information

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$13

$27

$62

How much do surgical pathology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical pathology assistant in the United States is $27.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surgical pathology assistant?

Surgical Pathology Assistants are specialized healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of pathologists to assist with the examination, dissection, and processing of tissue specimens from surgeries and biopsies. They play a crucial role in preparing samples for microscopic evaluation, ensuring accurate diagnoses. Their responsibilities can include gross examination, specimen dissection, and documentation, as well as overseeing laboratory workflow. Surgical Pathology Assistants typically work in hospitals, clinics, or laboratories and require specialized training, often through an accredited pathology assistant program.

How does a surgical pathology assistant typically collaborate with pathologists and laboratory staff during specimen processing?

Surgical Pathology Assistants work closely with pathologists and laboratory technicians to ensure accurate and efficient specimen processing. They often receive, examine, and dissect surgical specimens under the supervision of a pathologist, documenting findings and preparing tissue samples for further analysis. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as the assistant must relay critical observations and follow specific protocols to maintain specimen integrity. This teamwork helps support timely and accurate diagnoses, which are vital for patient care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgical pathology assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surgical Pathology Assistant, you need a solid background in biological sciences, specimen grossing, and laboratory protocols, often supported by a bachelor's degree and specialized training in pathology assistance. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen tracking software, and standard laboratory equipment is crucial. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring accurate specimen processing, maintaining patient safety, and supporting efficient diagnostic workflows.

What is the difference between Surgical Pathology Assistant vs Histotechnologist?

AspectSurgical Pathology AssistantHistotechnologist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in biological sciences or related fieldRequires a bachelor's degree and histotechnology certification
Work EnvironmentWorks in pathology labs assisting with specimen grossing and processingWorks in histology labs preparing tissue slides for microscopic examination
Employer & IndustryHospitals, medical labs, pathology practicesMedical laboratories, hospitals, research institutions

The Surgical Pathology Assistant and Histotechnologist roles share some overlap in laboratory settings but differ mainly in responsibilities. The assistant focuses on gross examination and specimen handling, while the histotechnologist prepares tissue slides for diagnosis. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in pathology or histology labs, making them complementary in the diagnostic process.

What does a surgical pathology assistant do?

A surgical pathology assistant supports pathologists by preparing and grossing surgical specimens, ensuring proper labeling and documentation. They may also assist with tissue processing, cutting, and staining, often working in a laboratory setting and requiring knowledge of histology techniques and safety protocols.
More about Surgical Pathology Assistant jobs

What cities are hiring for Surgical Pathology Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Surgical Pathology Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Surgical Pathology Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Surgical Pathology Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Surgical Pathology Assistant jobs?

For Surgical Pathology Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Surgical Pathology Assistant job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,122 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Surgical Pathology Asst

Boulder, CO • On-site

Boulder Community Health
Hospitals • 1 - 5K employees

$43.08 - $64.61/hr

Per diem

Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Boulder Community Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Surgical Pathologist Assistant
Boulder Community Health, Boulder, CO 80303
$43.08 - $64.61 an hour - Per Diem, Various shifts and hours per week
*Range includes per diem differential. +$2.50 for evening and weekend shifts.
Boulder Community Health is seeking a Surgical Pathologist Assistant who will independently perform or assist in accessioning, dissection, description, and histologic sampling of a full range of surgical specimens. Evaluates anatomic pathology specimens and processes in the appropriate setting, adhering to laboratory standards of safety and quality, with consideration of resource stewardship.
Benefits:
• 403(b)Retirement plan
• Education assistance program
• Staff Support Initiatives such as Sound Baths, Meditation, Massages, and Reiki
• Free one-on-one retirement planning sessions
• Employee Assistance Program offering 8 free, confidential counseling sessions for you and your family
Qualifications
• A Bachelor's OR an Associate Degree OR at least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of academic credit from a college/university with a combination of 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours) of biology and chemistry (copy of diploma or transcript required); OR
• Completed degree from an accredited Pathology Assistant Program.
• HT or HTL certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP); and
• 3+ years of grossing experience small biopsies and complex surgical cases; or
• MT/MLS/MLT certification from American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP); or
• PA certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
• If trained on the job, minimum of 3 years, full-time experience in a Histopathology laboratory; OR
• No experience necessary if following completion of degree from an accredited Pathology Assistant program.
Responsibilities
• Operate instrumentation for tissue processing.
• Assist Pathologists during gross examination or perform gross dissection of surgical specimens.
• Participate in the accessioning and labeling of specimens, specimen storage and disposal, and the maintenance of reagents and equipment.
• Perform frozen sections and other intra-operative consultations, within established protocol and procedural parameters.
• Maintain clean and orderly work area.
• Follow procedures for routine maintenance of lab equipment.
• Help maintain satisfactory inventory of supplies and utilize them in a low-wasteful manner.
• Plan and use time effectively and efficiently and show a willingness to assist other laboratory personnel when requested or, as workload permits, without being requested to do so.
• Obtain pertinent clinical information and history. Maintain patient confidentiality by following Healthcare Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
• Follow departmental procedures for chemical handling.
• Within scope of job, utilize critical thinking skills, decisive judgement, and the ability to work with minimal supervision. Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment ant take appropriate action.
• Apply knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology, and English language rules for accurate pathology dictation.
• Maintain professional behavior and communication.
• Assume personal responsibility for ongoing, continuing education and professional development.
About Boulder Community Health
Boulder Community Health (BCH) is a not-for-profit healthcare organization based in Boulder, Colorado, serving the Boulder County community. Our flagship facility, Boulder Community Hospital, along with several other locations, provides comprehensive care, including acute care, emergency services, psychiatric care, and outpatient services. BCH offers a wide range of specialties, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, maternity, and mental health care, with a strong emphasis on patient-centered, high-quality care.
We are dedicated to improving community health through advanced medical technology, evidence-based practices, wellness programs, and community outreach initiatives. BCH maintains strong partnerships with local physicians and supports public health efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and address health disparities.
As a Certified Level II Trauma Center, Boulder Community Hospital provides expert emergency care for serious and complex injuries while delivering comprehensive services across the full continuum of care.
EOE/Affirmative Action/Drug-free workplace.
BCH will never conduct interviews or ask for employment documents via text.
This position has no close date. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

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