Lab Technician III - Surgical Pathology

About the role

Join Cleveland Clinic’s Main Campus where research and surgery are advanced, technology is leading‑edge, patient care is world‑class, and caregivers are family. Cleveland Clinic is recognized as one of the top hospitals in the world. The Histology team prepares body tissue samples for microscopic examination by the pathologist, often while the patient is still in surgery, playing a major role in the diagnosis of malignancy. The primary responsibility of this role is to accurately enter specimen information into the Laboratory Information System (LIS). The position requires comfort working with biological materials such as body parts and blood, as specimens are irretrievable and demand extreme attention to detail. Success depends on strong problem‑solving skills, the ability to work independently, a high level of accuracy, initiative, and accountability in handling sensitive materials.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced manual processing and problem‑solving techniques in laboratory accessioning/data entry, problem investigations and resolution.
• Be involved in creating slides and/or duties associated with the subspecialty client liaison.
• Be familiar with data analytics.
• Receive and accession specimens into the LIS.
• Conduct higher‑level accessioning in the LIS including esoteric testing.
• Conduct advanced tracking investigations.
• Serve as a subspecialty client liaison.
• Responsible for advanced problem solving/issue resolution (pending log/SERS/block QA).
• Perform tasks involved with creating slides and/or cell blocks, frozen section processing (slide creation), creating cell block slides, clinical histology tissue embedding, and assist in cytology adequacy assessments.
• Prepare specimens for analysis.
• Perform manual processing (centrifuge, aliquoting and routine maintenance).
• Run and resolve LIS logs.
• Retrieve, sort, track and deliver specimens.
• Perform logistic activities within and outside of the lab.
• Use tracking software/devices.
• Comply with safety, SOPs, and regulations.
• Maintain appropriate documentation.

Requirements

• Associate degree (preferably in science) or active enrollment in the Cleveland Clinic MLS program.
• Two years of lab processing experience.
• Four years of lab technician or comparable processing experience may substitute the education requirement.
• Physical ability to perform specimen handling techniques and take measurements.
• Ability to work in a stationary position for extended periods.
• Ability to move throughout the department and hospital system.
• Handles and transports bio‑hazardous materials and potential carcinogens.
• Ability to differentiate color, hue, saturation, and tones.
• Ability to lift/move up to 50 lb.
• Follows standard precautions using personal protective equipment as defined in the exposure control plan.

Preferred qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, physics or medical laboratory science (may substitute the experience requirement).
• Prior laboratory experience (academic or professional).
• Research experience gained through coursework, independent projects, or internships.

Schedule

A caregiver in this position works days, 12:00 pm — 8:30 pm.

Pay

Minimum hourly: $25.00
Maximum hourly: $34.85

The pay range reflects the anticipated range for new hires and does not include shift differentials, overtime, or the value of Cleveland Clinic’s benefits package.