Pathologist Assistant I (Thurs - Mon, 5:30am to 2:00pm)

About the role

At Caris, we understand that cancer is an ugly word—a word no one wants to hear, but one that connects us all. We’re not just transforming cancer care—we’re changing lives. We introduced precision medicine to the world and built an industry around the idea that every patient deserves answers as unique as their DNA. Backed by cutting-edge molecular science and AI, we ask ourselves every day: “What would I do if this patient were my mom?” That question drives everything we do. Our mission extends beyond cancer as we push the frontiers of medicine and lead a revolution in healthcare—driven by innovation, compassion, and purpose.

The Pathologist Assistant I assists assigned Pathologists in organizing and performing many aspects of the pathology portion of a study. This includes performing Pathology report review, macrodissecting/microdissecting areas of tumor, and may include marking of H&E (tumor and/or normal tissue), ordering appropriate tests based on tumor site, or microscopic evaluation of CISH. The role also involves performing other quality pathology tasks as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Assists the Supervisor - Pathology Operations in the day-to-day operation of the Pathology/microdissection department.
• Reads Pathology Reports to determine the primary site of the specimen.
• Demonstrates the ability to identify areas of tumor (and normal tissue when needed) on a stained NFR slide and collect the marked areas for molecular analysis using Micro and Macro techniques.
• May assess tumor content of tissue (and normal tissue when needed) and order the appropriate testing.
• Maintains a clean workstation.
• Identifies missing/wrong information and opens discrepancies as necessary.
• May assess CISH stains for gene amplification.
• Consults a Pathologist for help when questions arise about a case.
• Organizes slides, data, generates tables, and assists with other requests.
• Accurately prioritizes and triages specimens, handles and disposes of specimens and chemical waste per laboratory procedural manual, and ensures compliance with regulatory agencies.
• Maintains confidentiality of sensitive information concerning patients, physicians, employees, clients, vendors, and the company.
• Performs Quality Control and Quality Assurance tests as required; maintains all necessary documentation and logs.
• Reports all concerns of test quality and/or patient or employee safety to a Supervisor or Safety Officer.
• Demonstrates a good understanding and working knowledge of Laboratory Information Systems.
• Assists with other related duties and special projects as needed.
• Maintains laboratory procedures; ensures compliance with applicable policies and procedures by laboratory personnel and recommends changes as needed.
• Performs and documents the operation, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance of microdissection equipment.
• Communicates laboratory problems and non-conformities to the Supervisor and/or management team.
• Fosters a unified culture and promotes a positive work environment through collaboration, cooperation, sharing of information, and mutual teamwork.
• May assist in training peers and new hires.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a chemical, biological, clinical, or medical laboratory science, or medical technology with one of the following:
  • Certified Cytotechnologist (ASCP), Pathologist Assistant (ASCP or AAPA), Histotechnologist (ASCP), other applicable laboratory certification, or internal training.
  • Certified as a Medical Doctor (foreign trained is acceptable).
• OR Bachelor of Science degree that does not fit into the above categories and the following:
  • At least 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution that, at a minimum, includes either:
    • 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses; OR
    • 24 semester hours of science courses that include:
      • 6 semester hours of chemistry;
      • 6 semester hours of biology;
      • AND 12 semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination.
  • AND Completion of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by the ABHES or the CAAHEP (this training may be included in the 60 semester hours listed above); OR
  • At least 3 months documented laboratory training in each specialty in which the individual performs high complexity testing.
• A high degree of care and attention with strict adherence to defined clinical testing protocols.
• 0-1 years of experience required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in a chemical, biological, clinical, or medical laboratory science, or medical technology.
• Relevant qualifications in the technical aspects of pathology.
• 3-5 years of experience preferred.

Physical Demands

• Work at a computer, use copiers, fax machines, and PDF scanners for inventory and ordering records.
• Visual acuity and analytical skill to distinguish fine detail; ability to pass a visual color discrimination test.
• Manual dexterity to use common laboratory equipment and perform sterile techniques.
• Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to perform repetitive motion.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Exposure to high noise levels in the data center, fumes, and bio-hazardous material in the lab environment.
• Exposure to formaldehyde, xylene, DAB, and alcohol, which emit fumes (formaldehyde, xylene, and DAB are carcinogenic).
• May be required to handle blood-borne pathogens and general laboratory reagents.
• Ability to use a microscope for extended periods of time.
• May have exposure to extreme temperatures, high noise levels, fumes, and bio-hazardous material/chemicals including formalin in the lab environment.

Training

• All job-specific, safety, and compliance training are assigned based on job functions.
• Continuing Education: a minimum of 12 hours must be completed annually.

Other

• This position may require periodic travel and some evenings, weekends, and/or holidays.
• Conditions of Employment: Individual must successfully complete pre-employment process, which includes criminal background check, drug screening, credit check (for certain positions), and reference verification.