Pathologist Assistant I

Role Summary

The Pathologist Assistant I is responsible for assisting the assigned Pathologists in organizing and performing many aspects of the pathology portion of a study. This includes performing Pathology report review, macrodissecting/microdissecting areas of tumor, and may include one of the following tasks: marking of H&E (tumor and/or normal tissue) and ordering appropriate tests based on tumor site, or microscopic evaluation of CISH. Also responsible for performing quality other pathology tasks, as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Assists the Supervisor – Pathology Operations in the day-to-day operation of the Pathology/microdissection department.
• Reads Pathology Reports to determine the primary site of the specimen.
• Demonstrates the ability to identify areas of tumor (and normal tissue when needed) on a stained NFR slide and collect the marked areas for molecular analysis using Micro and Macro techniques.
• May possess ability to assess tumor content of tissue (and normal tissue when needed) and order the appropriate testing.
• Maintains a clean workstation.
• Identifies missing/wrong information and opens discrepancies as necessary.
• May possess ability to assess CISH stains for gene amplification.
• Responsible for asking a Pathologist for help when they have a question about a case.
• Organizes slides, data, generates tables, and assists with any other requests.
• Demonstrates the ability to accurately prioritize and triage specimens, handles and disposes of specimens and chemical waste based on the laboratory’s procedural manual, and ensures compliance with regulatory agencies.
• Maintains confidentiality of sensitive information concerning patients, physicians, employees, clients, vendors and the company.
• Performs Quality Control and Quality Assurance tests as required. Maintains all necessary documentation and logs.
• Reports all concerns of test quality and/or patient or employee safety to a Supervisor or Safety Officer.
• Has a good understanding and working knowledge of Laboratory Information Systems.
• Assists as needed to perform other related duties and special projects as required.
• Maintains laboratory procedures. Ensures compliance to applicable policies and procedures by laboratory personnel. Recommends changes as needed.
• Performs and documents the operation, troubleshooting and preventive maintenance of microdissection equipment.
• Communicates and keeps Supervisor and/or management team abreast of laboratory problems and non-conformities.
• Fosters a unified culture and promote a positive work environment by collaboration, cooperation, sharing of information and mutual teamwork.
• May assist in training of peers and new hires.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology with one of the following: Certified Cytotechnologist (ASCP), Pathologist Assistant (ASCP or AAPA), Histotechnologist (ASCP), other applicable laboratory certification, or internal training.
• OR Certified as a Medical Doctor (foreign trained is acceptable).
• OR Bachelor of Science degree that does not fit into the above categories and the following:
  • At least 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution that, at a minimum, includes either:
    • 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses; OR
    • 24 semester hours of science courses that include:
      • 6 semester hours of chemistry;
      • 6 semester hours of biology; AND
      • 12 semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination.
  • AND
  • Completion of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by the ABHES or the CAAHEP (this training may be included in the 60 semester hours listed above); OR
  • At least 3 months documented laboratory training in each specialty in which the individual performs high complexity testing
  • A high degree of care and attention with strict adherence to defined clinical testing protocols.
  • Years of experience required: 0-1

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters, or PhD in a chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology.
• Relevant qualifications in the technical aspects of pathology.
• Years of experience preferred: 3-5

Physical Demands

• Will work at a computer some of the time as well as need to keep inventory and ordering records requiring the use of copiers, fax machines, and PDF scanners.
• Visual acuity and analytical skill to distinguish fine detail. Ability to pass a visual color discrimination test.
• Manual dexterity to use common laboratory equipment and perform sterile techniques as required.
• Must possess ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.
• Must possess ability to perform repetitive motion.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• May have exposure to high noise levels in the data center, fumes and bio-hazardous material in the lab environment. Exposure to formaldehyde, xylene, DAB and alcohol which emit fumes. The formaldehyde, xylene, and DAB are carcinogenic.
• May be required to handle blood-borne pathogens and general laboratory reagents.
• Must possess ability to use a microscope for extended periods of time.
• May have exposure to extreme temperatures, high noise levels, fumes and bio-hazardous material/chemicals including formalin in the lab environment.

Training

• All job specific, safety, and compliance training are assigned based on the job functions associated with this employee.
• Continuing Education – a minimum of 12 hours must be completed on an annual basis.

Other

• This position may require periodic travel and some evenings, weekends and/or holidays.