PATHOLOGY ASSISTANT at Aultman Health Foundation – CANTON, Ohio

PATHOLOGY ASSISTANT

PURPOSE OF POSITION

Under the direction and supervision of the Laboratory Assistant Manager-Pathology and Pathologists, performs gross examination and description on all anatomic pathology specimens. When appropriate, the pathologist is consulted during the examination.

RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS

• Performs gross description and dissection of human tissue surgical specimens for examination, holding and transport/shipment.
• Assists with the preparation of freshly removed surgical specimens for cytologic studies.
• Performs high complexity testing in a compliant manner i.e. specimen grossing.
• No Autopsy Responsibilities — focus exclusively on high complexity surgical pathology work.
• Dedicated Grossing Technician Support — collaborate with experienced technicians to streamline daily workflow.
• Follows the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting and maintaining records of patient test results.
• Maintains regulatory knowledge and awareness as it pertains to specific job duties.
• Adheres to the laboratory's quality control policies, document all quality control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed.
• Assumes responsibility for and takes action regarding any quality control or quality assurance issues as it pertains to specific job duties.
• Maintains instruments and equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications.
• Assumes responsibility for good documentation practices and maintains clear and legible records.
• Follows the laboratory's established policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established acceptable levels of performance.
• Identifies problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results and either must correct the problems or immediately notify the General Supervisor, Technical Supervisor, Clinical Consultant, or Laboratory Director.
• Strong Onsite Support Structure — work closely with engaged Pathologists and Laboratory Leadership who provide consistent guidance and collaboration.
• Exercises good judgment, analytical and problem solving/troubleshooting skills.
• Recommends solutions and improvements.
• Documents corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications.
• Requires strong verbal and written communication skills as well as excellent customer service and organizational skills; ability to interact at all levels of the organization and work independently as well as problem solve and troubleshoot.
• Assumes responsibility for participation in continuing education, professional development and required annual competency assessment.
• Maintains the surgical pathology and related work areas.
• Must be able to multi-task and pay attention to detail.
• Must be able to lift, push and/or pull up to 50lbs.
• Work in an environment that may be exposed to fumes, chemicals, formalin, and xylene substitute.
• Frequently use proper hand hygiene, as biohazardous materials will be present.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment when handling biological specimens and hazardous chemical.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

• Completion of bachelor’s degree in one of the life sciences, i.e. biology, chemistry
• Completion of a (NAACLS) accredited Pathologists’ assistant program
• Certification eligible as a Pathology Assistant through the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP)

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Department Hours: Dayshift, M-F
• No on-call requirements
• Work hours are assigned by the Pathologists and/or Assistant Manager and can be adjusted depending upon the staffing needs of the department
• Works in a well-lighted and ventilated laboratory
• Considerable repetitive motion

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS ADDENDUM

PURPOSE: To identify specific functions job requirements and work environment factors that could affect job performance.

O = Occasi 0- 33% of the work shift or 0- 32 repetitions.

F = Frequently = 34-66% of the work shift or 32-200+ repetitions.

C = C 67-100% of the work shift or 200+ repetitions.

N = Not essential job requirement.

F Standing

F Walking

O Lifting (50 pounds)

O Carrying (50 pounds)

O Pushing (50 pounds)

N Climbing with (50 pounds)

O Stooping/Bending

O Twisting/Turning

O Kneeling/Squatting

N Crawling

O Reaching Up/Reaching Forward

Additional information concerning physical requirements for the position:

None