Surgical Pathology Technician M - F 10am - 6:30pm

The University of Kansas Health System; Kansas City (KS); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Kansas Health System is seeking a Surgical Pathology Technician who will be responsible for specimen preparation and examination in a fast-paced medical environment. Candidates should have a relevant degree and must thrive in high-stress situations, demonstrating critical thinking and effective communication skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or related field required.
• 2+ years of healthcare or laboratory experience preferred.
• Training or competence in medical terminology preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare specimens for analysis and assist with frozen sections.
• Dispose of hazardous materials and manage laboratory inventory.
• Answer phones and interact courteously with customers.

Skills

Understanding of human anatomy

Medical terminology knowledge

Critical thinking

Ability to prioritize tasks

Education

Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences or related field

High School diploma

Job description

Position Title

Surgical Pathology Technician

Schedule: M - F, 10am - 6:30pm

Location: Bell Hospital

Position Summary / Career Interest:

A Surgical Pathology Technician I receives and accession specimens for surgical pathology. Performs gross examinations of biopsies and small surgical tissue specimens and prepares frozen section slides for microscopic examination. Must have a basic understanding of human anatomy/physiology and medical terminology, especially tissue part types. Must stay calm and organized in a high-stress, fast-paced environment and be able to prioritize tasks.

Responsibilities and Essential Job Functions:

1. Participate accurately in preparing for JCAHO and CAP inspections.
2. Prepare, label, and store reagents, standards, controls, and patient samples for analysis.
3. Answer phones and interact courteously with all customers, complying with hospital standards.
4. Assist with frozen sections, including cutting, staining, and cover slipping.
5. Register patients in the hospital computer system, create visits/encounters as needed, and accession specimens into the laboratory information system using two patient identifiers. Properly label all specimens and contact physicians to rectify missing or incorrect information, documenting issues accordingly.
6. Dispose of biohazardous materials, chemical waste, sharps, and other hazardous materials following safety protocols.
7. Understand specimen collection requirements and know when to consult a pathologist or supervisor. Apply critical thinking to prioritize work.
8. Perform gross examinations of biopsies and small surgical specimens; under supervision, examine larger specimens. Photograph specimens as requested.
9. Manage inventory and maintain laboratory equipment, including tissue processors, stainers, cryostats, and cover slippers.
10. Retrieve specimens from the OR, communicate with OR staff and surgeons for accurate information, and relay details to team members.
11. Use PPE as necessary to ensure safety.
12. Perform technical and clinical competencies relevant to the department.
13. Other duties as assigned, depending on department needs.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, Healthcare, or related field
• High School diploma

Preferred Education and Experience:

• 2+ years healthcare or laboratory experience
• Experience in specimen processing, accessioning, hospital/laboratory information systems, and frozen section processing
• Training or competence in medical terminology (preferred)

Knowledge Requirements:

• Qualify as high complexity testing personnel per CLIA 88 regulations, requiring at least 60 semester hours including 24 hours of science (6 biology, 6 chemistry) and 12 hours of related coursework.

Time Type: Full time

Job Requisition ID: R-44348

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply.