The Pathologists’ Assistant-Histology is a vital member of the diagnostic team, working behind the scenes to support accurate disease diagnosis and effective patient treatment. At Eisenhower Health, these highly trained professionals combine advanced medical knowledge with technical skill to process and analyze human tissue specimens that guide clinical decisions.
Under the supervision of a pathologist, Pathologists’ Assistants independently perform the examination, dissection, and description of surgical specimens. Their precision and attention to detail are essential in identifying disease, aiding cancer staging, and ensuring that every sample meets the highest standards of care. This critical role bridges laboratory science and medicine, helping physicians deliver the best possible outcomes for patients.
Eisenhower Health Pathologists’ Assistant-Histology Career Opportunities
What Are the Pathologists’ Assistant Qualifications?
A successful Pathologists’ Assistant possesses a blend of education, certification, and practical experience. These credentials ensure they can safely handle complex tissue specimens and accurately prepare materials for microscopic evaluation.
Education Requirements
- Required: Bachelor’s degree
- Preferred: Graduate of a NAACLS-accredited Pathologists’ Assistant Training Program; Master’s degree or higher
Licensure and Certification Requirements
- Required: ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology) Pathologists’ Assistant Certification within one (1) year of hire
Experience Requirements
- Preferred: Previous Pathologists’ Assistant experience in anatomic pathology or histology
This combination of education and certification allows Pathologists’ Assistants to perform at a high level of accuracy and professionalism within Eisenhower Health’s advanced pathology department.
What Are the Responsibilities of a Pathologists’ Assistant?
Pathologists’ Assistants at Eisenhower Health play a hands-on role in specimen preparation, gross examination, and laboratory operations. Their work ensures each sample is processed efficiently, accurately, and in full compliance with hospital and regulatory standards.
Common Pathologists’ Assistant responsibilities include:
- Performing gross examination, description, and dissection of human tissue surgical specimens, ensuring proper specimen identification and accessioning
- Obtaining and reviewing clinical history, including scans, x-rays, and lab data, to support diagnostic accuracy
- Following CAP Cancer Protocols, AJCC Cancer Staging Manual, and AAPA Grossing Guidelines for complex cancer cases
- Complying with all specimen processing and preservation protocols to maintain integrity and quality
- Preparing tissue samples for histologic processing and exercising judgment to preserve materials for additional testing
- Verifying CPT coding accuracy for each specimen and maintaining detailed documentation
- Obtaining biological specimens (blood, tissue, toxicology) for studies such as flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and image analysis
- Performing frozen sections and intraoperative consultations according to protocol
- Maintaining quality control and assurance records, documenting all procedures per accrediting standards
- Photographing gross specimens and slides and ensuring accurate data entry in pathology systems
- Operating and troubleshooting laboratory equipment and ensuring the cleanliness of the surgical pathology suite
- Assisting with the training of new personnel and pathology residents
- Demonstrating compliance with Eisenhower Health’s Code of Conduct and compliance policies
Through these responsibilities, Pathologists’ Assistants uphold the highest standards of laboratory excellence while directly contributing to accurate and timely patient diagnoses.
What Makes a Career in Histology and Pathology Unique?
Histology and pathology are at the heart of medical discovery and patient diagnosis. Professionals in these fields uncover the cellular and molecular causes of disease, providing physicians with the critical data needed for effective treatment plans.
As a Pathologists’ Assistant, you’ll work closely with both laboratory technologists and physicians, combining technical precision with medical insight. The work is highly rewarding for those who enjoy detail-oriented science, problem-solving, and contributing directly to patient care without direct patient interaction.
At Eisenhower Health, Pathologists’ Assistants have access to cutting-edge laboratory technology, continuous professional development, and a supportive team environment that values innovation and collaboration.
Is a Pathologists’ Assistant Career Right for You?
A career as a Pathologists’ Assistant is ideal for individuals who thrive on precision, scientific analysis, and meaningful impact. If you’re detail-oriented, organized, and passionate about medical science, this role offers a fulfilling path that blends independence with teamwork.
Pathologists’ Assistants enjoy a dynamic work environment, where no two specimens—or cases are alike. The work requires critical thinking, technical expertise, and a commitment to excellence. Those who enter the field gain a deep understanding of disease processes and play a pivotal role in improving patient outcomes.
Explore Pathologists’ Assistant Careers at Eisenhower Health
At Eisenhower Health, Pathologists’ Assistants are valued members of the care team, ensuring every specimen contributes to an accurate diagnosis and better patient care. Located in the heart of the Coachella Valley, Eisenhower offers outstanding opportunities for growth, competitive compensation, and a commitment to professional excellence.
Explore our currently open Pathologists’ Assistant-Histology job opening and all other laboratory and careers today on the Eisenhower Health Careers page.
Originally posted on 10/28/2025
