Pathology Assistant
About the role
The Pathology Assistant supports pathologists with gross examination, specimen preparation, release of pathology specimens, and additional general duties in support of routine laboratory and pathology services. This role ensures accurate specimen handling and documentation to support diagnostic evaluation and pathology education.
Responsibilities
- Maintains professional communication with Pathologists and other laboratory personnel
- Performs gross examination and dissection of surgical specimens under supervision
- Selects and submits tissue sections for histologic processing
- Affords assistance in autopsy procedures including organ removal and examination, if needed
- Documents gross findings and specimen descriptions in pathology systems
- Photographs specimens for diagnostic and teaching purposes
- Prepares materials for intraoperative consultations such as frozen sections
- Prepares samples for send out to reference labs, as requested
- Handles reagents, chemical, and medical waste according to institutional and regulatory safety standards
- Handles morgue related responsibilities, such as temperature monitoring and maintaining accurate decedent records
- Handles pathology blocks and slides to ensure accurate tracking, preservation, and timely accessibility
- Maintains pathology equipment and ensures proper functioning
- Maintains a clean area stocked with necessary supplies
- Escalates inventory needs promptly
- Performs other duties and/or projects as assigned
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, Pathology, or a related field
- 1 to 3 years of experience assisting with surgical specimens, autopsies, or pathology laboratory procedures
- Completion of a Pathology Assistant program with certification is preferred
Qualifications
- Advanced knowledge of human anatomy and pathological specimen evaluation
- Advanced skill in gross dissection and tissue specimen preparation
- Intermediate knowledge of laboratory safety and regulatory compliance standards
- Intermediate ability to document and describe specimen findings accurately
- Advanced attention to detail and precision in specimen handling and preparation
- Intermediate technical skills in pathology laboratory equipment operation
Skills
- Advanced knowledge of human anatomy and pathological specimen evaluation
- Advanced skill in gross dissection and tissue specimen preparation
- Intermediate knowledge of laboratory safety and regulatory compliance standards
- Intermediate ability to document and describe specimen findings accurately
- Advanced attention to detail and precision in specimen handling and preparation
- Intermediate technical skills in pathology laboratory equipment operation
Benefits
At RWJBarnabas Health, our market-competitive Total Rewards package provides comprehensive benefits and resources to support your physical, emotional, social, and financial health. This includes Paid Time Off (PTO), Medical and Prescription Drug Insurance, Dental and Vision Insurance, Retirement Plans, Short & Long Term Disability, Life & Accidental Death Insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, Health Care/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, Wellness Programs, Voluntary Benefits (e.g., Pet Insurance), Discounts Through our Partners such as NJ Devils, NJ PAC, Verizon, and more!