Certified Pathologist Assistant

Summary of Position

The Certified Pathologist Assistant is responsible for performing all Grossing Technician (GT) responsibilities, including assisting the assigned anatomic pathologists in organizing and conducting all aspects of the pathology portion of a study. This dynamic position also performs functions related to Microscopic Imaging, Grossing, and Discrepancy Research/Resolution. This position must perform and/or understand a wide variety of Histology processes, including tissue grossing, case set-up, in‑take of cases, microscopic imaging of patient specimens, and other duties as assigned and required following approved Standard Operating Procedures.

In addition, the Certified Pathologist Assistant, under the general direction of the Grossing Manager, assumes additional leadership responsibilities such as workflow coordination and discrepancy resolution.

• Performs dissection and histologic sampling of a full range of anatomical specimens according to the guidelines established by the Laboratory Medical Director.
• Describes gross anatomic features of processing specimens (as defined by CAP), sections the specimen according to specific protocols, and submits the appropriate areas for histologic preparation.
• Assists management with training Grossing Technicians on low to moderately complex specimens.
• Ability to work weekends to ensure breast specimens maintain appropriate fixation times via cold ischemia monitoring.
• Photomicrographs area of interest of specimens to be included in the final report and perform Quality Control (QC) functions during the image capture process.
• Assists in the identification and research of discrepancy cases to determine the origin of variance.
• Responsible for helping pathologists, adjunct pathologists, and remote pathologists respond to quality assurance audits, etc.
• Demonstrates the ability to accurately prioritize and triage specimens, handle and dispose of specimens and chemical waste based on the laboratory's procedural manual, and ensure 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 current logs.
• Reports all concerns of test quality and/or patient or employee safety to a Manager or Safety Officer.
• Has a good understanding and working knowledge of Laboratory Information Systems.
• Performs miscellaneous job‑related duties as assigned.

• Must be currently certified as a Pathologists' Assistant by the American Association of Pathologists' Assistants or the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP); with at least one year of experience related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
• Must have Bachelor's degree in biology or chemical science;
  Master's degree preferred.
• Must meet the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA '88) criteria to perform high‑complexity testing.
• Knowledge of pathology procedures, protocols, and techniques.
• High degree of technical knowledge in processing specimens (as defined by CAP).
• Moderate knowledge of GI Pathology for image processing.
• Ability to communicate effectively to create gross descriptions via dictation.
• Ability to advise and train grossing technicians in areas of expertise.
• Requires a high degree of care and attention with strict adherence to defined clinical testing protocols.
• Demonstrate a high level of attention to detail and an ability to troubleshoot.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word, Excel, Outlook, and general working knowledge of the internet for business use.
• Ability to multi‑task and work in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.
• Visual acuity (including color discrimination) and analytical skills to distinguish fine detail.
• Manual dexterity to use common laboratory equipment and perform sterile techniques.
• Must possess the ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.
• Must possess the ability to perform repetitive motion.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• May have exposure to extreme temperatures, high noise levels, fumes,…