Pathology Assistant

Cleveland Clinic•Weston, FL

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital is seeking a Pathology Assistant to manage laboratory testing within designated sections and ensure compliance with departmental and hospital policies and procedures for pathology services. The role directs and coordinates team members, provides guidance on specimen dissections, and supports quality, accuracy, and efficiency in the laboratory. The position may also perform histology supervisor duties in the supervisor’s absence. This is a regular PRN position. Shifts vary between 6:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m., with weekend availability. The work takes place in a clean, well-lit, heated, and air-conditioned environment, with potential exposure to infectious and carcinogenic substances, odorous chemicals, and other hazardous materials. Personal protective equipment is required for occupational exposure to blood and body fluids.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in science or master’s degree in science.
Completion of a Pathologist’s Assistant training program or Histotechnician (HT) certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
Five years of clinical experience.
Three years of experience as a surgical pathology technician, including gross examination of tissue.
One year of Quality Assurance, Quality Improvement, or Performance Improvement experience.
Working knowledge of OSHA requirements concerning chemical hygiene and blood-borne pathogens.
Understanding of safety rules and regulations, management techniques, laws, and legal interpretations.
Knowledge of anatomy, pathology, medical terminology, and physiology sufficient to identify, dissect, and describe certain surgical specimens.
Knowledge of dissection and sectioning techniques and appropriate tissue-handling procedures.
Demonstrated knowledge of histopathologic techniques and methods.
Knowledge of methods used to obtain clinical history, including scans, x-rays, and laboratory data.
Familiarity with dictation, dictation equipment, and computers.
Ability to direct and coordinate the efforts of others and judge when consultation is needed regarding specimen dissection.
Ability to establish and maintain cooperative relationships with surgical staff, pathology staff, residents, and secretaries.
Good physical and mental health; manual dexterity, visual and aural acuity, agility, and energy to perform the duties.
Must obtain assistance for tasks involving supplies or equipment exceeding 50 pounds.
Must wear gloves, masks, gowns, and goggles for actual or potential exposure to blood and body fluids, and follow Standard Precautions and required personal protective equipment procedures.
Must comply with the influenza prevention program, including annual vaccination or an approved exemption.
Employment offers are followed by controlled-substance testing.

Nice To Haves

Pathology or microbiology laboratory assistant background.
Certified Pathology Assistant.

Responsibilities

Perform surgical desk functions according to surgical pathology technician guidelines.
Coordinate with the Manager, Assistant Director, pathologists, employees, and other departments to meet special needs and address problems or concerns.
Examine, describe, dissect, and section selected biopsy and surgical resection specimens under the direction of a staff pathologist.
Select areas of gross specimens for microscopic analysis and cut them into appropriate sections for processing.
Identify, measure, weigh, and describe gross and biopsy specimens according to established guidelines.
Section specimens and dictate their gross features.
Collaborate with pathology staff to identify areas in surgical specimens likely to be affected by neoplastic or inflammatory conditions.
Process specimens, including cervical conizations.
Assist pathology staff in selecting tissues for frozen section analysis.
Check refrigeration for specimens received late from the previous day.
Accession all received specimens by identifying them, assigning accession numbers, logging them, and entering relevant information into the computer terminal.
Ensure appropriate accessioning and numbering of surgical specimens.
Photograph gross specimens that require photography and maintain the related records.
Prepare solutions, fixatives, and stains; decalcify mineralized specimens.
Maintain records of discarded and saved specimens and prepare gross specimens for maintenance and storage.
Check equipment operation and calibrate equipment when necessary.
Maintain surgical desk equipment and instruments according to CLIA requirements.
Ensure compliance with local and federal regulations and CLIA and CAP requirements.
Assist with, initiate, and institute specialized procedures and duties designated by the Medical Director or staff pathologist, including administrative and teaching functions.
Obtain patient charts and relevant information, such as x-rays and scans, for pathologist review.
Consult with the pathologist about special techniques and procedures needed and notify personnel involved.
Work with staff pathologists to ensure proper restoration of bodies for release to funeral directors and identify potential biohazards.
Complete autopsy protocols; ensure correct coding and filing of protocols and reports; file photographic and microscopic slides; and maintain other anatomical pathology reports and data.
Keep documentation and files complete and up to date, including product and service quotes.
Perform other duties as assigned.