Pathologists’ Assistant – Laboratory – Full Time

Sault Area Hospital; Union (NJ); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Pathologists’ Assistant to join their laboratory team. This full-time role involves performing gross examinations, managing surgical specimens, and conducting postmortem examinations under the guidance of experienced pathologists. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative environment, demonstrating strong communication and problem-solving skills while adhering to hospital protocols. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on patient care, this position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to vital medical processes in a supportive and professional setting.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Pathologists’ Assistant Master’s Program.
• Certification or active pursuit of certification with a recognized certifying body.

Responsibilities

• Perform gross examination and sampling of surgical specimens.
• Conduct postmortem examinations following legal protocols.
• Maintain surgical pathology protocols and cleanliness.

Skills

Team Collaboration

Laboratory Equipment Maintenance

Tissue Culture Conditions

Voice Dictation Systems

Microsoft Office Proficiency

Communication Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Conflict Resolution Skills

Independent Work

Education

Pathologists’ Assistant Master’s Program

Certification from a recognized certifying body

Job description

Pathologists’ Assistant – Laboratory – Full Time

• Pathologists’ Assistant – Laboratory – Full Time

Purpose of Position:

Under the supervision of the Manager and Pathologist, the Pathologists’ Assistant performs gross examination, description, and sampling of surgical specimens. The role includes hospital and medico-legal autopsies under the guidance of the Pathologist.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Prepare, describe, dissect human tissue surgical specimens, and prepare tissue for histological processing.
• Ensure proper specimen accessioning.
• Obtain clinical history, including scans, x-rays, and laboratory data.
• Photograph the body, organs, specimens, and slides.
• Maintain surgical pathology protocols, reports, and data, including filing and coding.
• Maintain equipment, supplies, and cleanliness of the pathology suite and gross rooms.
• Perform postmortem examinations following legal and hospital protocols.
• Ensure legal authorization for autopsy and adhere to hospital death protocols.
• Review patient medical charts and data with the attending pathologist.
• Consult with pathologists on special techniques and procedures for postmortem exams.
• Notify relevant authorities prior to autopsy and coordinate special sampling requests.
• Conduct postmortem examinations, including external and internal assessments.
• Select and submit tissue sections for analysis.
• Collect biological specimens for various studies and perform special procedures as needed.
• Organize clinical data for preliminary summaries.
• Prepare the body for release, noting any biohazards, and coordinate with mortuary services.
• Assist in organizing pathology conferences.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Graduate of an accredited Pathologists’ Assistant Master’s Program.
• Certification or active pursuit of certification with a recognized certifying body.
• Recent relevant work experience acceptable to Lab Administration.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment maintenance and operation.
• Understanding of sterile tissue culture conditions.
• Experience with voice dictation systems is an asset.
• Effective team player in fast-paced, stressful environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and computer skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to work independently with motivation and minimal supervision.
• Strong reading, writing, and communication skills.
• Demonstrate behaviors aligned with hospital values and standards.

Note: Responsibilities and qualifications may evolve. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Sault Area Hospital promotes inclusivity and accessibility, with accommodations available upon request. This position is covered by a collective agreement. External applications are welcome if the position is not filled internally.