Position Summary

The Pathologist Assistant I is responsible for assisting the 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 one (1) of the following tasks: marking of H&E (tumor and/or normal tissue) and ordering appropriate tests based on tumor site, or microscopic evaluation of CISH. Also responsible for performing quality other pathology tasks, as assigned.

Job 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 possess ability to 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 possess ability to assess CISH stains for gene amplification.

• Responsible for asking a Pathologist for help when they have a question about a case.

• Organizes slides, data, generates tables, and assists with any other requests.

• Demonstrates the ability to accurately prioritize and triage specimens, handles and disposes of specimens and chemical waste based on the laboratory’s 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.

• Has a good understanding and working knowledge of Laboratory Information Systems.

• Assists as needed to perform other related duties and special projects as required.

• Maintains laboratory procedures. Ensures compliance to applicable policies and procedures by laboratory personnel. Recommends changes as needed.

• Performs and documents the operation, troubleshooting and preventive maintenance of microdissection equipment.

• Communicates and keeps Supervisor and/or management team abreast of laboratory problems and non-conformities.

• Fosters a unified culture and promote a positive work environment by collaboration, cooperation, sharing of information and mutual teamwork.

• May assist in training of peers and new hires.

Required Qualifications

• 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.

• OR 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.

• Years of experience required: 0-1

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters, or PhD in a chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology.

• Relevant qualifications in the technical aspects of pathology.

• Years of experience preferred: 3-5

Physical Demands

• Will work at a computer some of the time as well as need to keep inventory and ordering records requiring the use of copiers, fax machines, and PDF scanners.

• 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 as required.

• Must possess ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.

• Must possess ability to perform repetitive motion.

• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.

• May have 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. The formaldehyde, xylene, and DAB are carcinogenic.

• May be required to handle blood-borne pathogens and general laboratory reagents.

• Must possess 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 the job functions associated with this employee.

• Continuing Education – a minimum of 12 hours must be completed on an annual basis.

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 ( applicable for certain positions) and reference verification.

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Caris Life Sciences is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.