Anatomic Pathology Assistant Cytology-Part-time

Anatomic Pathology Assistant Cytology-Part-time Days

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference. As part of the Cytology lab at Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, you will work 20 hours per week, Monday through Friday 8am–12pm.

The Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant performs test procedures in a Clinical Laboratory and conveys results to physicians or designee. It is a vital link between the department and patient care areas.

• Receive non‑gynecological & surgical specimens after verifying acceptance criteria.
• Assign case accession numbers to specimens according to workflow procedure.
• Identify and resolve problems that may affect test performance or reporting.
• Document corrective actions when test systems deviate from established performance specifications.
• Order referral testing in the LIS according to procedure.
• Prepare, stain, and cover‑slip NGYN cytology and surgical frozen section specimens.
• Track specimen retention under CAP guidelines.
• Stock client supplies and fill outreach stock when needed.
• Maintain a clean, orderly, and well‑supplied work area, adhering to safety guidelines and reporting unsafe conditions.
• Maintain and demonstrate proficiency in testing protocols and instrument operations.
• Participate in orientation and competency assessment of employees and students.
• Promote and follow established laboratory and hospital safety practices; attend mandatory safety reviews annually.
• Attend and participate in laboratory performance improvement activities and related initiatives.
• Attend section meetings and review hospital and laboratory informational postings.
• Participate in educational seminars, workshops, and continuing education programs.
• Maintain awareness of and apply age‑related patient care protocols.
• Use available resources to resolve and prevent problems (follow through on problem resolution, involve necessary parties, seek resources when outside control, listen fully, manage personal emotional response).

• Track specimens into the laboratory and ensure they are ordered and collected appropriately.
• Process NGYN specimens, including manual preparation and Thin Prep processor use.
• Provide on‑site adequacy service for FNA and biopsy touch preps; stock supplies in all FNA service areas.
• Assist at FNA/biopsy procedures by reviewing patient history, completing forms, preparing and staining slides, and operating ultrasound machine for FNA performed by pathologist.
• Run and maintain automated equipment for specimen processing (e.g., Prep processors, centrifuges, microscopes, pipettes).
• Assist pathologists with adequacy assessment and determination of preliminary diagnosis.
• Provide staff with appropriate specimen triage and collection information.

• Prepare histology specimens for pathologist including fixative addition and container conversion.
• Assist with frozen section by processing and staining immediate slides per protocol.
• Order cassettes and transfer frozen section specimens from cryostat to cassette for overnight processing; confirm slide charges and print labels.
• Clean anatomic pathology equipment (cryostat, tissue processors, H&E stainers, IHC stainers) and document QA.
• File blocks and slides.
• Release slides to pathologists and/or perform digital pathology scanning.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Computer experience using Windows‑based software.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and anatomy.

• Associate’s degree in a related field.
• Experience preparing body fluid specimens, including GYN and non‑GYN.
• A minimum of 3 years’ experience in a clinical setting.

Northwestern Medicine is an equal‑opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members. If offered a position, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form. Results are evaluated on a case‑by‑case basis, complying with all applicable laws.

We offer a wide range of benefits to support physical, emotional, and financial well‑being. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.