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Surgical Pathology Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Surgical Pathology, Cytology, Frozen Sections EMR System: EPIC/Beaker Support Staff: 4 Physicians, 5 Histotechnologists, 1 Pathology Assistant, 2 Cytotechnologists Days Per Month: Monday Friday ...

Pathology Assistant

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$79K - $124K/yr

The Pathologists' Assistant ensures accurate documentation, maintains quality standards, and ... Performs macroscopic dissection and description of surgical specimens ranging from biopsies to ...

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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 Aug 8, 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 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.

How to become a surgical pathology assistant?

To become a surgical pathology assistant, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in a biological or health science field, followed by completion of a histotechnologist or cytotechnologist program. Many employers prefer candidates with certification from organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and relevant laboratory experience. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or additional specialized training in pathology techniques.

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.

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.

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.
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 job categories do people searching Surgical Pathology Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Surgical Pathology Assistant jobs are:
Infographic showing various Surgical Pathology Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,122 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Pathology Assistant Surgical Pathology

University Hospitals

Cleveland, OH • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


University Hospitals rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 622 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Joining our team comes with several benefits, including:
• Competitive hourly rate
Sign on bonus
• Free parking
• Tuition reimbursement
NEW GRADS WELCOMED
Position Summary
  • Independently prepares any complex and routine patient specimen for processing and special procedures by describing, measuring, dissecting and weighing specimens and entering specimen information into the computer.
  • Organizes and performs tasks efficiently to meet departmental turnaround time standards and accommodate patient care needs.
  • Collaborates with supervisory staff to achieve departmental goals, improve service, quality, cost effectiveness and adherence to regulatory guidelines
  • Performs duties relative to preparing surgical specimens for examination by the pathologist and assists in the preparation and performance of human postmortem examinations.

Required For All Jobs
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.
  • For specific duties and responsibilities, refer to documentation provided by the department during orientation.
  • Must abide by all requirements to safely and securely maintain Protected Health Information (PHI) for our patients. Annual training, the UH Code of Conduct and UH policies and procedures are in place to address appropriate use of PHI in the workplace.

Qualifications:
Qualifications
Education
  • Master's Degree Of Science in Pathologists' Assistant Required and
  • Bachelor's Degree From an accredited training program for Pathologists' Assistant Required or
  • In a biological science (prior to 2005) Required
Work Experience
  • Previous experience Preferred
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
  • Basic knowledge of human anatomy; Required
  • microsurgical techniques; Required
  • pathologic disease processes; Required
  • understanding of safety and infection control requirements of position. Required
  • Skills in obtaining/preparing tissue for evaluation; Required
  • written and verbal communication, computer operation, organization, prioritizing, problem solving, time management, decision making. Required
  • Ability to provide assistance to pathologists in a timely and quality manner; Required
  • use and maintain pathology equipment appropriately; Required
  • utilize good judgment; Required
  • prepare and maintain records, use electronic communications tools and software. Required
Licenses and Certifications
  • Pathologist Assistant (PA-ASCP) or eligible Required
Additional Licenses and Certifications
  • or eligible Required
Physical Demands
  • Standing Frequently
  • Walking Frequently
  • Sitting Rarely
  • Lifting Frequently 50 lbs
  • Carrying Frequently 50 lbs
  • Pushing Frequently 50 lbs
  • Pulling Frequently 50 lbs
  • Climbing Occasionally 50 lbs
  • Balancing Occasionally
  • Stooping Frequently
  • Kneeling Frequently
  • Crouching Frequently
  • Crawling Occasionally
  • Reaching Frequently
  • Handling Frequently
  • Grasping Frequently
  • Feeling Constantly
  • Talking Constantly
  • Hearing Constantly
  • Repetitive Motions Constantly
  • Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination Constantly

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About University Hospitals

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

For more than 155 years, University Hospitals has been on a mission to heal, teach and discover. As a renowned academic medical center and community hospital network, we’ve expanded across Northeast Ohio to deliver what matters most to our patients: personalized, compassionate care; medical discovery and breakthroughs; and high-quality, affordable care close to home.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cleveland, OH, US

Year founded

1866