Surgical Pathology Technologist-Hospital Lab Part-time Days

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare • McHenry, IL

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Surgical Pathology Technologist supports pathologists and residents with gross examination and dissection of designated specimens, specimen receipt and accessioning, preparation of tissues for gross examination, and laboratory documentation. The role also supports intra-operative consultations, specimen photography, cryostat sectioning and staining, specimen referral and delivery, supply orders, and customer service by phone and direct communication. The position works 32 hours per week and follows organizational policies, standard operating procedures, and applicable regulatory and accreditation standards.

The technologist communicates with clients, pathologists, residents, and supervisors about specimen problems; verifies that specimens, requisitions, and labels meet requirements; resolves discrepancies and escalates issues as needed; and maintains accurate records in the Laboratory Information System and department logs. The role includes maintaining specimen storage and work areas, supplies, and equipment; participating in safety, infection control, occurrence management, and process improvement activities; and may include autopsy coverage and assisting with resident instruction. Some assignments require prolonged standing and walking between hospital or clinic buildings. Proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials may be required, and laboratory-provided personal protective equipment is worn due to potential exposure to biohazardous or chemically hazardous materials. Additional projects, administrative tasks, and other duties may be assigned.

Requirements

• Associate of Science degree, preferably in biological sciences, life sciences, medical laboratory technology, or a related field.
• Computer experience with keyboard proficiency.
• Familiarity with medical terminology.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor of Science degree, preferably in biological sciences, life sciences, medical laboratory technology, or a related field.
• Prior work experience in laboratory support or health-related experience.

Responsibilities

• Communicate with clients, pathologists, residents, and supervisors regarding specimen problems and participate in the laboratory occurrence management program.
• Perform or assist with gross examination and dissection of designated specimens and select representative tissue for microscopic examination.
• Verify specimen and requisition labeling before examination, resolve discrepancies before gross examination, and escalate issues when necessary.
• Use dictation equipment to document specimen descriptions according to procedure.
• Verify specimen identity against cassette identity; document cassettes and tissues accurately and legibly in logs and the Laboratory Information System.
• Perform or assist with specimen photography or microphotography and intra-operative consultations.
• Cut and stain cryostat sections, maintain staining setups, and perform cryostat maintenance according to standard operating procedures.
• Reconcile blocks with histology staff before cassette hand-off and review case records for appropriate billing codes and required documentation within the required timeframe.
• Receive specimens, document receipt, reconcile specimen logs, verify specimen and requisition acceptability, and address deficiencies with the appropriate operating room, clinic, or physician's office.
• Accession specimens into the Laboratory Information System, label requisitions and containers, generate labeled tissue cassettes, and collate paperwork, specimens, and cassettes.
• Prioritize specimen processing according to established guidelines; maintain storage areas; triage specimens qualifying for disposal and discard them according to procedure.
• Answer routine inquiries about specimen handling and case status and route department phone calls appropriately.
• Maintain current, legible documentation and files, including requisitions, specimen delivery logs, and problem logs, for quality management review.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment; clean, disinfect, and perform routine maintenance according to procedure; and perform minor spill cleanup when necessary.
• Promote teamwork through effective communication and participate in safety and infection control activities.
• Maintain supply stock and promptly notify management of shortages or supply delivery problems.
• Pursue personal development by attending teleconferences, educational sessions, and required meetings.
• Assist with process improvement projects; may provide autopsy coverage and assist pathologists with resident instruction and orientation to specimen handling, gross dissection, routine biopsy dictation, and equipment use.
• Perform additional projects, administrative tasks, and other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Tuition reimbursement
• Loan forgiveness
• 401(k) matching
• A wide range of benefits supporting physical, emotional, and financial well-being and protection against unexpected life events

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Education Level: Associate degree