Pathologist Assistant II

Incyte Pathology; Spokane Valley (WA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading medical laboratory based in Spokane, WA, is searching for a qualified Pathologists’ Assistant. The role involves performing gross examinations and dictation of surgical specimens, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Responsibilities also include mentoring and training laboratory staff. Candidates must have completed a NAACLS accredited program, hold an ASCP certification, and possess at least three years of relevant experience. A commitment to quality assurance and independent operation is essential.

Qualifications

• Successful completion of a NAACLS accredited Pathologists’ Assistant program required.
• ASCP certification required.
• 3+ years of relevant experience required.

Responsibilities

• Perform gross examination, dissection, and dictation of surgical pathology specimens.
• Travel to regional facilities for autopsies and support – estimated 25%.
• Mentor and train laboratory staff.

Skills

Attention to detail

Effective communication

Advanced knowledge of anatomy and pathology

Independent operation

Technological skills

Education

NAACLS accredited Pathologists’ Assistant program

ASCP certification

3+ years of relevant experience

Job description

Based out of a Spokane, WA hospital and under the general supervision of a Pathologist, performs gross examination, dictation, and dissection of surgical specimens ranging from routine to complex, complicated and uncomplicated, ensuring all diagnostic information and markings are described. Assists with autopsies, procedure support, frozen sections, preparing tissue for histological processing, and ensures all regulatory, compliance, and quality assurance metrics are always maintained. Performs duties and responsibilities independently, requiring minimal supervision and mentoring during grossing, frozen sections, procedure support, and autopsies. Occasional travel to support procedures at various regional facilities in Eastern and Southern WA and Northern OR will be required.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Performs gross examination, dissection, and dictation of all surgical pathology specimens, ranging from small biopsies to complex oncology resections.
• Travel to other regional facilities for autopsies, procedure support, and frozen section support – estimated 25%
• Selects representative tissue sections for microscopic evaluation, ensuring completeness and diagnostic relevance.
• Manages frozen sections with autonomy, including specimen evaluation, cryostat cutting and maintenance, and slide preparation while maintaining rapid turnaround times. Performs troubleshooting and takes corrective action when necessary.
• Mentors, trains, and provides guidance to gross techs, PA I, students, and other laboratory staff
• Maintains digital records or photographs of gross specimens for documentation and teaching purposes.
• Participates in autopsies including external examination, internal organ dissection, gross documentation, and tissue sampling with autonomy while working directly with a Pathologist
• Engages in quality assurance improvements and process improvement projects/initiatives.
• Ensures all work meets CAP, CLIA, and institutional accreditation standards.
• Follows all biosafety, chemical safety, and PPE guidelines; maintains a clean and compliant workspace and environment.
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Qualifications

Education/Certifications

• Successful completion of a NAACLS accredited Pathologists’ Assistant program required
• ASCP certification required
• 3+ year relevant experience required

*Exceptions made for OJT certified Pathologist Assistants

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to travel periodically to regional facilities in the Southern and Eastern Washington area. Rare travel to Northern Oregon and Montana.
• Ability to follow established protocols and operate independently, without observation
• Ability to maintain a strong attention to detail and accuracy in a high-pressure environment
• Advanced knowledge of anatomy and pathology
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills and maintains professionalism with teammates, partners, and clients
• Able to perform at a high level independently and in a team environment
• Seamlessly adapts to workflow changes based on priority and focus
• Possesses basic technological skills involving computer applications, dictation software, and laboratory information systems.

Physical Requirements

See attached Physical Activities Checklist

Equal Employment Opportunity statement

Incyte Pathology provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin, religion, age, disability or handicap, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, military or honorably discharged veteran status or protected genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

Other duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.