Histology Lab Assistant

About the role

The Histology Laboratory Assistant provides essential pre-analytical and operational support within a CAP-accredited histology laboratory. This role focuses on specimen handling, accessioning, case management, supply maintenance, and general lab support functions to enable certified histotechnicians to focus on complex technical responsibilities, improving workflow efficiency and turnaround times.

Responsibilities

• Accession incoming histology specimens accurately into the laboratory information system (LIS) by verifying patient identification, specimen labeling, and test orders.
• Enter and manage tissue-related orders in LIS.
• Assign cases to appropriate protocols, pathologists, and workflows based on established guidelines.
• Differentiate specimen types (e.g., large vs small tissue) for proper routing.
• Retrieve archived slides and paraffin blocks for pathologist review and continuity of care.
• File blocks and slides in accordance with CAP retention and storage requirements.
• Prepare cases for pathologist review, including organizing materials as needed.
• Coordinate additional requests from providers or pathologists.
• Maintain and replenish laboratory supplies.
• Change and manage reagent levels on stainers and other equipment according to protocol.
• Dispose of waste and assist with general lab cleanliness and organization.
• Support laboratory workflow by prioritizing tasks based on volume and urgency, facilitating effective communication across teams, and assisting with workload balancing to maintain operational efficiency.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma (Required).
• 2 years of work experience with basic computer skills.
• Strong attention to detail and organization skills.
• Ability to follow written procedures and protocols precisely (Required).
• Four to six weeks orientation and training period to become competent; additional time necessary for proficiency (Required).
• Prior laboratory, healthcare, or specimen processing experience (Preferred).
• Experience with LIS or EMR systems (Preferred).
• Basic familiarity with Anatomy & Physiology (Preferred).

Skills and Abilities

Essential Technical/Motor Skills

• Ability to type and input data into the computer.
• Ability to answer the telephone and speak clearly.
• Good with detailed work, logical reasoning, and common sense.

Interpersonal Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to perform as a team player.

Essential Physical Requirements

• Standing, walking, and light lifting required.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) required.

Other Skills and Abilities

• Attention to detail.
• Time management and prioritization.
• Reliability and consistency.

About Us

Mosaic Life Care is a health care system in northwest Missouri. With a vision of transforming community health by being a life-care innovator, Mosaic places the holistic needs of patients first by providing the right care at the right time and place, offering high value and quality health care.

Benefits

Mosaic Life Care offers a wide array of benefits to meet each employee’s individual needs, designed by listening to people just like you. Benefits include concierge services, an employee lounge, wellness programs, free covered parking, free on-site and virtual health clinics, and many more. When paired with compensation and recognition, these benefits continue to make Mosaic the employer of choice for employees at any stage of their journey.