Diagnose diseases and conduct lab tests using organs, body tissues, and fluids. Includes medical examiners.
SOC: 29-1222.00
Common Job Titles
Anatomic Pathologist
Dermatopathologist
Forensic Pathologist
Pathologist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate tissue specimens, body fluids, and cellular morphology for disease diagnosis using microscopy and molecular diagnostic techniques in clinical laboratory settings.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize complex diagnostic findings from histopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular test results to formulate definitive pathology reports for interdisciplinary treatment teams.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign laboratory testing protocols and diagnostic workflows for emerging infectious diseases and novel biomarkers in academic medical centers.
Advanced
KnowledgeInterpret histopathological findings and laboratory test results to provide expert consultation to clinical teams and external referring physicians.
Advanced
MindsetChampion continuous professional development and evidence-based practice through teaching medical students, residents, and laboratory personnel in academic settings.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate differential diagnoses from complex multi-system pathology presentations collaborating with oncologists, surgeons, and hematologists to guide treatment planning.
Advanced
KnowledgeAssess laboratory quality control metrics and regulatory compliance standards independently managing anatomic and clinical pathology laboratory operations.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze molecular and genetic test data from PCR, flow cytometry, and mass spectroscopy platforms integrating findings with clinical presentations to determine disease etiology.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform tissue biopsies and fine needle aspirations using specialized biopsy needles and sterile technique under imaging guidance.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate electron microscopes, microtomes, and automated immunoassay analyzers following standardized laboratory protocols to prepare and analyze diagnostic specimens.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate patient safety principles with evidence-based diagnostic standards when performing medical examiner autopsies and forensic pathology investigations.
Proficient
KnowledgeCompose comprehensive pathology reports documenting gross and microscopic findings using laboratory information systems and adhering to standardized reporting guidelines.
Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Physicians, Pathologists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
11,800
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $83,930. 25th percentile: U.S. $165,940. 50th percentile: U.S. $239,200. 75th percentile: U.S. $239,200. 90th percentile: U.S. $239,200. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$83,930
10% of workers earn the following or more
$239,200+
Workers on average earn
$266,020
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Medicine and Dentistry4.8/5
Biology4.5/5
English Language4.3/5
Education and Training3.4/5
Customer and Personal Service3.4/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft Access
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft PowerPoint
SAP software
Technology Skills
Accounts receivables system software
Anatomic pathology software
Antek HealthWare LabDAQ
Aspyra CyberLAB
Aspyra CyberPATH
Blood Bank Computer Systems Blood Bank Control System
