Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant I - Full-time

Mercy; Springfield (MO); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Tuition assistance

Matched retirement plans

Job summary

Mercy is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant I to support the daily operations of our Anatomic Pathology Department. This role handles specimen processing, lab documentation, equipment maintenance, inventory management, quality improvement activities, and provides technical support to pathologists and laboratory staff.

The ideal candidate will have a High School Diploma or equivalent, 2+ years of laboratory experience, strong organizational and computer

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Greater than 2 years of laboratory experience.
• Strong organizational and computer skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

Responsibilities

• Accession pathology cases into the Laboratory Information System (LIS).
• Enter laboratory tests and patient information accurately into LIS.
• Research patient information using Hospital Information Systems (HIS) and LIS.
• Troubleshoot computer-related issues as needed.
• Receive, prepare, and process pathology specimens prior to accessioning.
• Apply proper specimen fixatives and perform specimen preparation procedures.
• Prepare Gynecologic Cytology specimens as required.
• Assist with autopsy procedures as needed.
• Cut frozen sections and prepare slides for pathologist review.
• Coverslip, label, and organize pathology slides.
• Prepare and document specimens for referral testing and send-outs.
• File and retrieve tissue blocks, slides, and archived laboratory materials.

Skills

Strong organizational

Computer skills

Fast-paced environment

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

LIS

HIS

Epic billing

Job description

Find your calling at Mercy!

Performs computer functions, processes patient specimens, maintains department inventory, operates and maintains equipment, and performs record keeping tasks and QI functions. Adheres to patient identification, Lab safety, and other Mercy Lab and department policies and procedures. Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards.

Position Details:

Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant I - Full-Time

Location: Mercy
Department: Anatomic Pathology Laboratory
Schedule: Full-Time

Overview

Mercy is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant I to support the daily operations of our Anatomic Pathology Department. This role is responsible for specimen processing, laboratory documentation, equipment maintenance, inventory management, quality improvement activities, and providing technical support to pathologists and laboratory staff. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to patient safety, accurate specimen handling, and Mercy's Mission, Values, and Service Standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Greater than 2 years of laboratory experience
• Strong organizational and computer skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced healthcare environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous Anatomic Pathology laboratory experience
• Experience with laboratory and hospital information systems
• Knowledge of medical terminology
• Strong computer proficiency

Essential Responsibilities

Computer & Information Systems

• Accession pathology cases into the Laboratory Information System (LIS)
• Enter laboratory tests and patient information accurately into LIS
• Research patient information using Hospital Information Systems (HIS) and LIS
• Troubleshoot computer-related issues as needed

Specimen Preparation & Handling

• Receive, prepare, and process pathology specimens prior to accessioning
• Apply proper specimen fixatives and perform specimen preparation procedures
• Prepare Gynecologic Cytology specimens as required
• Assist with autopsy procedures as needed
• Cut frozen sections and prepare slides for pathologist review
• Coverslip, label, and organize pathology slides
• Prepare and document specimens for referral testing and send-outs
• File and retrieve tissue blocks, slides, and archived laboratory materials

Equipment Maintenance

• Perform routine maintenance and documentation for laboratory equipment, including: Cryostats Tissue processors Bone saws Other pathology laboratory instruments
• Maintain accurate maintenance records and notify leadership of equipment concerns

Quality Control & Documentation

• Initiate specimen problem reports and laboratory variance reports
• Maintain laboratory documentation and records
• Participate in inventory management and supply control activities
• Support quality improvement initiatives and regulatory compliance efforts

Technical Support & Collaboration

• Assist Pathologists, Pathologists' Assistants (PAs), Histotechnicians (HTs), and Cytotechnologists (CTs) during laboratory procedures
• Prepare laboratory reagents and solutions accurately
• Utilize analytical scales and other laboratory tools as required
• Foster positive working relationships across departments while adhering to Mercy Service Standards
• Mentor and support other AP Lab Assistant team members as assigned

Leadership & Administrative Support

• Provide training and guidance to AP Lab Assistants as needed
• Assist with staffing and scheduling processes
• Manage Epic billing workqueues as assigned
• Coordinate laboratory purchasing and supply ordering
• Oversee documentation for equipment maintenance activities
• Manage legal record requests and special projects as assigned

Continuing Education & Professional Development

• Complete a minimum of 12 continuing education units (CEUs) annually
• Maintain documentation of completed education activities
• Complete all required compliance and mandatory education within established timelines
• Participate in department training and competency assessments

What You'll Bring

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Commitment to quality patient care and laboratory excellence
• Ability to meet turnaround time expectations and productivity standards

Additional Information

The Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant I organizes, prioritizes, and completes work to meet departmental turnaround times and professional expectations. Individuals in this role may be assigned additional duties and responsibilities as needed to support laboratory operations and patient care.

*Join Mercy and be part of a team dedicated to delivering compassionate care and exceptional laboratory services to our patients and communities.

Why Mercy?

• From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.