Pathology Lab Assistant

Trinity Health • Grand Rapids, MI

5d • Onsite

About The Position

A pathology lab assistant (or pathologists' assistant) supports pathologists by processing specimens, preparing tissue for examination, and maintaining lab operations. They play a vital behind-the-scenes role in diagnosing diseases and handling clinical lab procedures.

Requirements

• Associate’s Degree or equivalent.
• Perform analytical functions such as calculating, weighing and correlating of information.
• Must be able to perform basic data entry.
• Shows how to use (through a competency assessment) a standard desktop and windows based computer system, including a basic understanding of email, e-learning, intranet and computer navigation.
• Ability to use other software as required to perform the essential functions of the job.
• This position does repetitive tasks as numbering of specimens and requires concentration when handling toxic chemicals.
• The position requires considerable walking, standing, bending or occasional lifting of objects greater than 40 pounds.
• This position has constant exposure to infectious disease, hazardous chemicals as xylene, acetone, alcohol, formaldehyde, sharps and fumes.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s Degree with emphasis in the sciences such as biology and anatomy.
• Tissue cutting skills, anatomical lab experience.
• Customer service skills, troubleshooting skills.

Responsibilities

• Accessioning, describing, and preparing surgical specimens and tissue samples.
• Assisting with the gross examination and dissection of surgical specimens and postmortem examinations (autopsies).
• Embedding tissue in wax blocks, cutting tissue (microtomy), and applying routine stains for microscopic analysis.
• Cleaning workspaces, sterilizing instruments, and safely handling hazardous biological and chemical hazards.
• Keeping detailed written records, logging specimens, and managing digital files and patient reports

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree