Pathology Assistant I, Full Time Days, ACL, Morristown, NJ

Job Description

Under the supervision of a CLIA General Supervisor, the Pathologists' Assistant performs gross examination of tissue samples, autopsies, and related diagnostic procedures. Prepares specimens for tests including frozen sections, flow cytometry, molecular studies, cytogenetics, and immunohistochemistry.

Specimen Handling: Receives and verifies patient specimens with accurate documentation. Prepares and preserves tissue for examination, ensuring proper handling and fixation. Performs gross examination of surgical specimens, processes samples for histology, and assists with dissection and embedding. Maintains accurate labeling to prevent contamination or misidentification.

Result Reporting: Describes gross anatomic features of surgical specimens, assists in drafting and compiling gross pathology reports for pathologist review, and photographs appropriate specimens.

Equipment Operation: Operates, maintains and troubleshoots all technical equipment according to approved standard operating procedures.

Quality Control: Follows quality control policies, documents all related activities, and maintains records of instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance.

Proficiency Testing: Participates in proficiency testing, as assigned and ensures samples are treated the same as patient samples.

Inventory Management: Manage inventory by rotating stock and checking supply expiration dates to ensure availability and compliance.

Training: Assists with training of team members and students.

Safety: Demonstrates knowledge and practice of all Atlantic Health and department safety procedures.

Other Desired Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge:

Organized: Maintains a structured approach to tasks and keeps workspaces orderly.

Detail-oriented: Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Effective communicator: Communicates clearly and professionally with Clinicians, Team Members, and other departments.

Problem-solver: Identifies issues and takes appropriate steps to resolve them.

Compliance-minded: Understanding and adheres to regulatory and safety requirements in Pathology and medical laboratory settings.

Adaptable: Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining professionalism and accuracy.

Expertise: Strong knowledge of human anatomy, pathology, and laboratory techniques

Instrumentation: Proficient in using laboratory instruments and equipment for specimen handling and analysis.

Qualifications

Must meet the CLIA personnel requirements for High Complexity testing:

MD or DO with a current medical license, OR

Doctoral degree in clinical laboratory science, chemical, physical or biological science, OR

Master's degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory, chemical, physical, or biological science, OR

Bachelor's degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory, chemical, physical or biological, OR

Associate degree in chemical, physical or biological science or medical laboratory or equivalent education and training

Foreign education credentials require US equivalency documentation by an AHS approved agency.

Clinical training from a National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS) accredited Pathologists' Assistant program preferred.

One (1) year experience as a Pathologists' Assistant in a healthcare setting with a high volume of surgical or autopsy cases is preferred.

PA (ASCP) or eligibility to sit for certification exam required