Pathologists’ Assistant

Job Description Summary

The Pathologists’ Assistant (PA) plays a crucial role in supporting Pathologists by assisting in the preparation and performance of surgical specimen dissections and completing accurate gross description dictation. This position actively engages in problem solving, quality assurance, quality control monitoring, instrument maintenance, and troubleshooting, while contributing to the overall excellence in patient care.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure accuracy of patient identification on all specimens processed for microscopic examination.
• Perform surgical specimen dissection on a range of specimens, providing quality material for routine histology studies and specialized tests as required.
• Conduct frozen sections and maintain the cryostats.
• Dictate complete and accurate gross descriptions of specimens.
• Demonstrate effective communication skills, both in person and virtually, to provide timely result reporting to pathologists and providers in a professional manner.
• Maintain proper equipment functionality, ensure an adequate supply of materials, and the cleanliness of the surgical pathology gross cutting area and morgue.
• Dispose of tissues and reagents according to standard operating procedures.
• Perform, interpret, and report tests according to established protocols.
• Utilize expertise in Anatomic Pathology to interpret clinical presentations of disease and apply laboratory findings to achieve timely and accurate diagnostic results.
• Recognize discrepancies in test results and take corrective actions to ensure quality outcomes.
• Document quality control and preventive maintenance activities and keep gross bench procedure manuals updated.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the department’s needs.

Qualifications

• ASCP Certified or ASCP exam ready with certification prior to the start date.
• Completion of a NAACLS Accredited Pathologists’ Assistant Program is required.
• Prior grossing experience is preferred.