Pathologists' Assistant

Pathologists' Assistant (PA)

Optum WA, (formerly The Everett Clinic) is seeking a Pathologists' Assistant (PA) to join our team in Seattle, WA. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.

As a member of the Optum Care Delivery team, you'll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone.

At Optum, you'll have the clinical resources, data and support of a global organization behind you so you can help your patients live healthier lives. Here, you'll work alongside talented peers in a collaborative environment that is guided by diversity and inclusion while driving towards the Quadruple Aim. We believe you deserve an exceptional career, and will empower you to live your best life at work and at home. Experience the fulfillment of advancing the health of your community with the excitement of contributing new practice ideas and initiatives that could help improve care for millions of patients across the country. Because together, we have the power to make health care better for everyone. Join us and discover how rewarding medicine can be while Caring. Connecting. Growing together.

Position Highlights & Primary Responsibilities:

The Pathologists' Assistant (PA) performs gross examination and preparation of surgical pathology specimens under the direction of a pathologist. This role requires a high degree of autonomy within established protocols and close collaboration with pathology, histology, and laboratory teams to support accurate diagnostics, efficient workflow, and regulatory compliance. This position carries an expanded scope that includes frozen section support, tissue triage for ancillary testing, and direct participation in histology slide preparation, offering a unique opportunity for PAs seeking cross-functional experience.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Perform gross examination, dissection, description, and tissue selection for surgical pathology specimens in accordance with department protocols and pathologist direction.
• Perform histology slide preparation, including tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, and staining, as part of an expanded-scope role that bridges grossing and histology functions.
• Verify specimen identity at accession and throughout processing; document and escalate discrepancies per laboratory policy.
• Correlate clinical history, imaging, and operative information with gross findings to guide appropriate tissue sampling.
• Select and submit tissue for routine histology and, when applicable, ancillary studies (e.g., flow cytometry, molecular, microbiology, cytogenetics).
• Support frozen section preparation, gross photography or digital imaging, and autopsy services as applicable to the department.
• Maintain accurate gross descriptions, specimen tracking, and documentation in the laboratory information system.
• Operate and maintain grossing room equipment; monitor supplies and ensure an organized, safe work area.
• Participate in quality assurance, competency, and CAP/CLIA inspection readiness activities.
• Collaborate with pathologists, histotechnologists, and laboratory staff to support timely case progression.
• Assist with training and competency support for staff and learners as needed.

The Everett Clinic joined Optum in 2019, working together across the Puget Sound, the partnership means we're able to expand our services and locations to offer even more services. As we grow, we'll keep on giving you top-quality care, just as we always have. Together, we're making health care work better for everyone.

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications:

• Graduate of a NAACLS-accredited Pathologists' Assistant program.
• PA(ASCP) certification or certification eligible.
• Meets CLIA qualifications for high-complexity testing personnel, as applicable.
• Working knowledge of human anatomy, histopathology, and anatomic pathology workflow.
• Demonstrated skill in gross examination and specimen dissection with accuracy and efficiency.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a high-volume anatomic pathology laboratory.
• Experience with frozen section workflows, ancillary tissue triage, histology preparation and gross dissection.
• Experience supporting CAP inspection readiness, quality initiatives, or process improvement.

Work Environment: This role is based in a clinical anatomic pathology laboratory involving exposure to biological specimens, chemicals, and laboratory equipment. The environment is fast-paced and time-sensitive. Work schedules may vary based on case volume and operational needs.

The salary range for this role is $109,500 to $164,000 per year. Salary Range is defined as total cash compensation at target. The actual range and pay mix of base and bonus is variable based upon experience and metric achievement. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. UnitedHealth Group complies with all minimum wage laws as applicable. In addition to your salary, UnitedHealth Group offers benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements).

OptumCare is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.