Pathologist Assistant

Position Objective:

Under the supervision of a pathologist, assists with preparing, dissecting, and selection pathology specimens for analysis.

Essential Job Duties:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

1. Creates a work environment that positively promotes process improvement. Explores opportunities to add value to job (innovative ideas) to benefit the organization and taking ownership of the outcome. Proactively finds other work-related tasks during low census.
2. Under the general supervision of a Pathologist, assists in the collection (autopsy) and gross examination of surgical and autopsy specimens for diagnostic evaluation and reporting. Performs functions to established productivity guidelines with minimal errors.
3. Assists pathologist with frozen sections by preparing tissue and producing slides.
4. Orders or accessions appropriate tests in Laboratory Information System (LIS) as requested by authorized provider by accurately reading and interpreting orders and being familiar with test mnemonics.
5. Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations. Maintains inter- and intradepartmental work flow by fostering a spirit of cooperation (hand offs).
6. Maintains laboratory supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies. Conserves laboratory resources by using equipment and supplies as needed to accomplish job results.
7. Documents technical information appropriately in the LIS. Serves as a mentor or technical resource to both internal and external customers.
8. Operates and maintains laboratory instrumentation. Performs preventative maintenance and troubleshoots problems to the full extent of ability. 
9. Actively participate in the laboratory quality plan/program (ex. investigative reports, notification of delays, etc.).
10. Actively participates in the training of new staff by serving as a mentor and technical resource. Participates in the competency process. Participates in continuing education classes to maintain licensure and remain updated on changes in the histology field.

Educational/Experience Requirements:

Required Minimum Education:  

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with course work sufficient to meet the requirements of the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) for certification as a Pathologists Assistant.

Required Minimum Experience: 

• One years of experience working in an acute care facility as a Pathologist Assistant, preferred;

Required License/Certifications:  

• PA(ASCP) or PA(AAPA)*
• In lieu of ASCP certification as a Pathologists Assistant, consideration will be given to those who have completed a four year medical degree and at least one year of pathology residency

*new graduates must provide evidence of certification within 90 days of hire

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:  

• Ability to work cooperatively with all types of personalities both inside and outside the organization. 

Working Conditions, Equipment, Physical Demands:

Physical Demands – Medium Duty

The physical demands and work environment that have been described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

There is a reasonable expectation that employees in this position will be exposed to blood-borne pathogens. 

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.