Pathologist Assistant

Description

The Pathologist Assistant will perform a variety of duties in the evaluation and processing of patient specimens within defined departmental operating policies, under the direct supervision of a pathologist. The role involves operating autopsy and laboratory equipment such as an autopsy saw, camera, processors, cryostats, computers, and dictation equipment.

Minimum Education
Bachelor's Degree B.S./B.A. and a graduate of an NACCLS accredited Pathologist Assistant Program (Required)

Minimum Work Experience
1 year of prior work experience in an Anatomic Pathology lab (Preferred)

Required Licenses and Certifications
PA (ASCP) or eligible. Certification must be obtained within one year of hire. (Required)

• Perform post‑mortem examinations or assist in autopsy procedures by making & closing incisions, eviscerating organs, and specimen collection under pathologist direction.
• Release bodies from the morgue during regular laboratory hours.
• Process surgical specimens including proper labeling, fixation, and decalcification per established protocols; perform FNA and bone marrow specimen preparation procedures; collect samples for specialized studies, research, toxicology, and microbiology assays.
• Independently perform simple and complex dissection with appropriate dictation based on department guidelines.
• Prepare frozen sections, including cryostat microtomy, staining, cover slipping, and labeling.
• Maintain autopsy and surgical tissue storage and disposal.

• Assist with organization and coordination of Pathology conferences.
• Review patient information and verify that all documentation is properly completed.
• Order special stains or microtomy procedures per pathologist request.

• Present cases and relevant materials to pathologists at remote sites via telepathology.
• Exercise judgment on specimens or procedures requiring consultation or evaluation by the medical director or designee.

• Participate in quality improvement review and development of gross room/autopsy procedure manuals.
• Participate in the education of residents and other laboratory staff by developing teaching and educational tools, including telepathology functions and limitations.

• Maintain and enhance current knowledge by attending continuing education conferences within the hospital or at the regional/national level.
• Evaluate and use literature and research findings to support laboratory process decisions.
• Perform photomicroscopy for interdepartmental conferences or teaching purposes.

Primary Location
District of Columbia-Washington

Work Locations
CN Hospital (Main Campus): 111 Michigan Avenue NW, Washington, 20010

Job
Allied Health

Position Status
R (Regular) - FT - Full-Time