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 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
- Required: 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.
- Required: OR Certified as a Medical Doctor (foreign trained is acceptable).
- Required: OR Bachelor of Science degree that includes at least 60 semester hours with required course distributions and completion of an ABHES/CAAHEP-accredited clinical laboratory training program (or equivalent) and/or documented laboratory training in each high complexity testing specialty; 0-1 years of experience.
- Preferred: Masters or PhD in a chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology.
- Preferred: Relevant qualifications in the technical aspects of pathology.
- Preferred: 3-5 years of experience.
Physical Demands
- Will work at a computer and manage inventory and records; may use copiers, fax machines, and scanners.
- Visual acuity and analytical skill to distinguish fine detail; ability to pass a color discrimination test.
- Manual dexterity to use laboratory equipment and perform sterile techniques.
- Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods; ability to perform repetitive motions; ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
- Exposure to lab fumes and bio-hazardous materials; potential exposure to formaldehyde, xylene, DAB, alcohol; may handle blood-borne pathogens.
- Must have the ability to use a microscope for extended periods and work with temperatures, noises, and chemicals typical of a lab environment.
Other
- This position may require periodic travel and some evenings, weekends and/or holidays.
- Continuing Education – a minimum of 12 hours must be completed on an annual basis.