Lead Pathologists Assistant

RWJBarnabas Health•New Brunswick, NJ

44d•$61 - $95•Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Pathologists Assistant provides advanced technical and operational support within the surgical pathology laboratory. In addition to performing all duties of a Pathologists Assistant, the Lead PA serves as a senior member of the team responsible for daily workflow coordination, quality assurance, and staff development. This position ensures efficient gross room operations, timely specimen processing, and adherence to laboratory standards and turnaround time expectations.

Requirements

Master s degree in Pathologists Assistant Studies or equivalent required
ASCP certification as a Pathologists Assistant required
Minimum of 3 5 years of experience as a practicing PA, with demonstrated leadership or training experience preferred
Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Requires standing for extended periods and handling of biological specimens with appropriate PPE

Responsibilities

Perform gross examination and dissection of simple to complex surgical pathology specimens
Conduct frozen section procedures, specimen triage, and occasional accessioning
Ensure proper specimen storage, labeling, and documentation
Perform and oversee routine equipment maintenance and gross room upkeep
Schedule daily coverage across two gross rooms to ensure adequate staffing and workload distribution
Provide onboarding and training for new staff, residents, and PA students
Delegate tasks effectively and serve as the primary point of contact for grossing and accessioning staff
Collaborate with Histology staff to troubleshoot processing and embedding issues
Monitor case workflow to maintain specimen turnaround times ideally within 24 hours and not exceeding 48 hours
Maintain sufficient inventory of gross room supplies and coordinate ordering as needed
Provide performance feedback, guidance, and corrective direction as appropriate
Support the Anatomic Pathology Manager in implementing and maintaining quality assurance procedures
Assist in the development and revision of gross room protocols and training materials
Participate in CAP, CLIA, and institutional inspections and compliance initiatives
Serve as a liaison between PAs, pathologists, histology, and laboratory management
Perform additional duties as assigned to support departmental needs