Pathologist Assistant - Department of Pathology

ummc; Jackson (MS); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

SOM-Pathology-Chair seeks a Pathologist Assistant to support laboratory diagnosis under a licensed Pathologist. Responsibilities include dissections, tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, and staining, with active involvement in QC and education of staff.

Minimum qualificatons include a Bachelor’s degree and NAACLS-accredited PA training; PA-ASCP certification is required within six months post-hire. Clinical lab experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and NAACLS Pathologist's Assistant training completed.
• PA-ASCP certification required post-hire within 6 months.
• Experience in a clinical/pathology lab is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform dissections and tissue processing (embedding, microtomy, staining).
• Assist in preparation/handling of tissue samples for Pathologists.
• Manage laboratory operations incl. inventory, equipment maintenance, scheduling.
• Ensure documentation/record-keeping of procedures and patient data.
• Adhere to QC protocols and regulatory standards for reliable results.
• Collaborate with Pathologists and lab staff to support patient care.
• Train team members on procedures, specimen handling, and results.
• Identify and address issues to maintain efficiency and accuracy.
• Maintain composure under time-sensitive conditions.
• Stay current with pathology techniques to apply best practices.

Skills

Dissections

Tissue embedding

Microtomy

Staining

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree

NAACLS Pathologist's Assistant training

Job description

Job Requisition ID:

R00053393

Job Category:

Allied Health

Organization:

SOM-Pathology-Chair

Location/s:

Main Campus Jackson

Job Title:

Pathologist Assistant - Department of Pathology

Job Summary:

Responsible for supporting the laboratory diagnosis of disease under the direction of a licensed Pathologist. This role involves performing various laboratory tasks such as dissections, tissue embedding, microtomy, and staining, as well as assisting in the preparation of tissue samples for examination. The Pathology Assistant also plays a critical role in laboratory administration, quality control, and educating other healthcare team members about laboratory procedures and results.

Education & Experience

Education or Experience Required:

Bachelor's degree and completion of NAACLS accredited Pathologist's Assistant training program

Certifications, Licenses or Registration Required:

Certification as a Pathology Assistant-American Society for Clinical Pathology (PA-ASCP) required post-hire within 6 months.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in a clinical or pathology laboratory setting

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Strong knowledge and proficiency in laboratory procedures such as dissections, embedding, microtomy, and staining. Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Ability to work well under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Strong attention to detail with an ability to maintain accurate records. Proficient in quality control procedures and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Effective problem-solving skills and ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Responsibilities:

• Perform dissections and tissue processing, including embedding, microtomy (tissue sectioning), and staining.
• Assist in the preparation and handling of tissue samples to ensure accuracy and readiness for examination by Pathologists.
• Assist with the management of laboratory operations, including inventory management, equipment maintenance, and scheduling.
• Ensure proper documentation and record-keeping of laboratory procedures, patient data, and specimen handling.
• Adhere to quality control protocols to maintain the integrity and reliability of laboratory results.
• Collaborate with Pathologists, laboratory technicians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective and efficient patient care.
• Provide guidance and training to other team members on laboratory procedures, specimen handling, and result interpretation.
• Identify and address any issues or challenges in the laboratory setting, ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently and accurately.
• Maintain composure and productivity under pressure, especially when working with time-sensitive samples or tasks.
• Stay current with advancements in laboratory technology and techniques to ensure the application of best practices in the pathology field.
• The duties listed are general in nature and are examples of the duties and responsibilities performed and are not meant to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Management retains the right to add or change duties at any time.

Time Type:

Full time

FLSA Designation/Job Exempt:

Yes

Pay Class:

Salary

FTE %:

100

Work Shift:

Day

Grant Funded:

No

Job Posting Date:

09/18/2026