Pathologist Assistant

PHSA; Vancouver; On-site; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare organization in Vancouver seeks a Pathologist Assistant to perform gross examinations and assist in post-mortem examinations. The role emphasizes safety, quality improvement, and training staff while ensuring compliance with Indigenous health mandates. Opportunities for growth and professional development are offered.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits

Professional development opportunities

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• Certification with the Canadian Certification Council of Pathologists' Assistants required.
• Two years of recent surgical and autopsy pathology experience needed.

Responsibilities

• Perform gross examination and dissection of surgical specimens.
• Maintain accurate records and perform equipment maintenance.
• Train staff and students on laboratory procedures.

Skills

Effective communication

Conflict resolution

Data analysis

Organizational abilities

Time management

Physical ability

Education

Master's Pathologist Assistant Program

Tools

Laboratory information systems

Job description

Pathologist Assistant

Anatomical Pathology

Location: Vancouver, BC

In accordance with the Mission, Vision, Values, and strategic direction of PHSA, safety—both patient and employee—is a priority and a shared responsibility. Continuous improvement in quality and safety is inherent in this role.

The Pathologists' Assistant II reports to the Team Lead or designate and works independently (WWGS) performing duties related to gross examination of surgical and biopsy pathology specimens and post-mortem examinations under a pathologist's supervision.

What you'll do

1. Prepare gross examination and complete dissection and dictation of surgical specimens, including data collection and specimen receipt, following established policies and procedures. Obtain clinical history, laboratory data, x-rays, and scans as needed.
2. Prepare tissues for microscopic examination for intraoperative consultation, including orientation, cutting, and staining.
3. Perform post-mortem examinations, including external examination, evisceration, describing gross anatomical features, dissection, recording organ weights, and tissue preparation for histology.
4. Organize clinical information and ensure legal authorization for post-mortem examinations.
5. Maintain accurate records of work using worksheets, reports, and electronic systems such as LIS.
6. Maintain equipment and work areas, perform scheduled maintenance, calibration, quality control, and troubleshoot instruments. Document all actions.
7. Organize and file materials such as specimens, photographs, and documentation for education and research.
8. Communicate equipment needs to supervisors and assist with evaluations and selections.
9. Participate in inventory management of supplies and reagents, including preparation.
10. Train staff and students on laboratory procedures and assist with orientation.
11. Participate in safety programs by following procedures and using safety equipment.
12. Contribute to Quality Management or Quality Assurance programs by providing relevant information.
13. Perform other related duties as assigned.

What you bring

Qualifications

• Certification or eligibility for certification with the Canadian Certification Council of Pathologists' Assistants (CCCPA).
• Graduation from an approved Master's Pathologist Assistant Program, with two years of recent surgical and autopsy pathology experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Knowledge of the impacts of settler colonialism on Indigenous Peoples, including mandates related to Indigenous health, anti-racism, and cultural safety.
• Understanding legislative obligations and provincial commitments related to Indigenous rights and anti-racism, including TRC Calls to Action, In Plain Sight, BC's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, UNDRIP, and others.

Core Competencies

• Understanding of Indigenous-specific and systemic racism, with initiatives to promote a safe, inclusive environment.
• Awareness of social, economic, political, and historical contexts affecting Indigenous Peoples and health disparities.

Skills & Knowledge

• Apply best practices and current research to professional decisions.
• Effective communication with diverse stakeholders.
• Conflict resolution and data analysis skills.
• Organizational and time management abilities.
• Experience with Laboratory information systems and equipment operation.
• Physical ability to perform duties.
• Commitment to ongoing learning about Indigenous issues and anti-racism.

What we bring

PHSA offers opportunities for growth, professional development, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive work environment. We value diversity and are committed to anti-racism and equity, especially in addressing Indigenous-specific racism and systemic barriers.

Job Details

• Type: Temporary, Full-Time
• Wage: $42.27 - $52.81/hour
• Location: 855 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC
• Closing Date: Applications accepted until filled
• Hours: Shifts on days, nights, evenings, weekends based on departmental needs
• Requisition #: 180816E

About Us

Provincial Laboratory Medicine Services (PLMS) is part of PHSA, operating across BC to provide diagnostic testing that supports healthcare and research. PHSA is dedicated to excellence, respect, innovation, equity, and courage, and is committed to creating an inclusive, culturally safe environment. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, especially Indigenous candidates, and support ongoing Indigenous-specific anti-racism initiatives.