Laboratory Assistant I – Anatomic Pathology Department

Alberta Health Services (AHS); Calgary; On-site; CAD 35,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

Alberta Health Services (AHS) in Calgary seeks a Medical Laboratory Assistant I to join the Anatomic Pathology Department. You will support histopathology, cytopathology and IHC, processing specimens and reporting results in a high-volume, safety‑conscious setting.

The role emphasizes quality service, proper sample handling, and adherence to safety protocols while contributing to ongoing process improvements and staff training within the DSC Anatomic Pathology Team.

Qualifications

• Completion of an accredited Medical Laboratory Assistant program or equivalent.
• Knowledge of anatomy and medical terminology.
• Bench-based laboratory support, specimen processing and equipment operation.
• Compliance with WHMIS and PPE safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Perform quality assurance and troubleshoot issues as needed.
• Maintain records and participate in orientation/training of staff.
• Handle procurement, processing, dispatching and testing of specimens.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and LIS (EPIC-Beaker).

Skills

Anatomy knowledge

Medical terminology

Laboratory safety

PPE adherence

Education

Accredited Medical Laboratory Assistant program

Tools

EPIC-Beaker LIS

Microsoft 365

Job description

Laboratory Assistant I – Anatomic Pathology Department

The Anatomic Pathology Laboratory at the Diagnostic Service Center is seeking a Medical Laboratory Assistant to join our collaborative and high-performing team. As the central Anatomical Pathology Hub for Calgary and surrounding areas, our lab plays a vital role in supporting accurate disease diagnosis. The department processes over 840,000 paraffin-embedded blocks and 1.2 million slides annually, and with anticipated growth in Alberta, our volumes are expected to increase significantly. This is an exciting time to join a department that is evolving and expanding its impact on the delivery of quality patient care.This role is suited for individuals who are reliable, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a physically demanding environment. The work involves handling a high volume of anatomical pathology specimens, operating and maintaining automated equipment, and ensuring the integrity and correct identification of patient samples. The laboratory environment includes daily exposure to chemicals and reagents, including patient materials. The role requires strict adherence to safety protocols and appropriate use of PPE, while supporting safe work practices and contributing to process improvements. Responsibilities include performing quality assurance, troubleshooting, escalating issues as needed, maintaining records, participating in the orientation and training of students and staff, and working with the pathology Laboratory Information System. Other duties may be assigned as required.

Description:

As a Medical Laboratory Assistant I, you will provide high quality service to clients of the clinical laboratory in an effective, efficient and safe manner. You will be responsible for a variety of laboratory functions including procurement, handling, processing, dispatching and testing of specimens, performing procedures and reporting results.

• Classification: Laboratory Assistant I
• Union: HSAA FAC PROF/TECH
• Unit and Program: DSC Anatomic Pathology Department; Histopathology, Cytopathology, IHC
• Primary Location: Diagnostic Scientific Centre
• Multi-Site: Not Applicable
• FTE: 1.00
• Posting End Date: 09-SEP-2026
• Temporary Employee Class: Temp F/T Benefits
• Date Available: 05-OCT-2026
• Temporary End Date: 11-JUL-2027
• Length of Shift in weeks: 2
• Shifts per cycle: 10
• Shift Pattern: Days, Evenings
• Days Off: As Per Rotation
• Minimum Salary: $25.16
• Maximum Salary: $31.36
• Vehicle Requirement: Not Applicable

• Classification: Laboratory Assistant I
• Union: HSAA FAC PROF/TECH
• Unit and Program: DSC Anatomic Pathology Department; Histopathology, Cytopathology, IHC
• Primary Location: Diagnostic Scientific Centre
• Location Details: As Per Location
• Multi-Site: Not Applicable
• FTE: 1.00
• Posting End Date: 09-SEP-2026
• Temporary Employee Class: Temp F/T Benefits
• Date Available: 05-OCT-2026
• Temporary End Date: 11-JUL-2027
• Hours per Shift: 7.75
• Length of Shift in weeks: 2
• Shifts per cycle: 10
• Shift Pattern: Days, Evenings
• Days Off: As Per Rotation
• Minimum Salary: $25.16
• Maximum Salary: $31.36
• Vehicle Requirement: Not Applicable

Required Qualifications:

Completion of an accredited Medical Laboratory Assistant program or equivalent.

Additional Required Qualifications:

Knowledge of anatomy and medical terminology. Experience performing bench-based laboratory support work consistent with Medical Laboratory Assistant practice, including specimen processing, operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment, reagent preparation and changes, quality control activities, and waste handling (Work involves routine handling and movement of specimens and laboratory materials up to 15 Kgs, extended standing or walking, and frequent bending, crouching, and reaching). Experience or Demonstrated ability to work in compliance with laboratory safety practices, including WHMIS, and the safe handling of chemicals and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience within the last year working in Anatomic Pathology and/or Cytology Laboratory. Experience using Laboratory Information Systems (LIS), including EPIC‑Beaker, and Microsoft 365 applications. Demonstrated ability to accurately handle limited data entry and confidential patient information and materials in a regulated healthcare environment.

Please note:

All postings close at 23:59 MT of the postingend date indicated.

Security Screening:

A satisfactory criminal record check and/or Vulnerable Sector Search is required prior to your first day of work. Additionally, all employees have an ongoing duty to disclose any charges or convictions that may occur during their employment with APL.

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