Pathologist's Assistant

Certification as a Pathologists’ Assistant, PA (ASCP) required

About the Role

Department: Anatomic Pathology

.75 FTE (30 hours per week)

Reports to: Medical Director, Anatomic Pathology Lab Supervisor Compensation: $90,000 – $105,000 plus generous benefits

DMG is seeking a Pathologists’ Assistant to join our Anatomic Pathology team. Working under the supervision of board-certified pathologists, you will perform gross examination and dissection of surgical specimens, assist with autopsies as needed, and help ensure accurate, timely diagnoses for our patients. You will be a key partner to our pathologists, histology staff, and clinical teams.

Responsibilities

• Perform gross examination, description, dissection, and tissue submission of surgical pathology specimens, from small biopsies to complex resections, in accordance with established protocols and pathologist direction
• Accurately document gross findings, measurements, and specimen details through dictation or direct entry into the laboratory information system (LIS), Epic
• Orient, ink, and section specimens, and select representative sections for histologic processing
• Prepare and perform frozen section procedures in coordination with the pathologist
• Assist with or perform autopsy procedures, including organ evisceration, dissection, specimen collection, and documentation
• Photograph specimens and assist with intraoperative consultations and specimen handling
• Collect, triage, and properly handle specimens for ancillary studies (e.g., flow cytometry, cytogenetics, microbiology, molecular testing, electron microscopy)
• Verify patient and specimen identification, requisitions, and accessioning data to ensure specimen integrity and traceability
• Follow CAP, CLIA, OSHA, and institutional requirements, including proper use of PPE, formalin and hazardous chemical safety, and biohazard handling
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe grossing area and keep equipment in working order
• Participate in quality assurance activities, competency assessments, procedure and document review, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Communicate effectively with pathologists, histotechnologists, surgeons, operating room staff, and other clinical personnel
• Train and orient new staff, students, and residents on grossing procedures as assigned
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree from a NAACLS-accredited Pathologists’ Assistant program (or equivalent as accepted by the certifying body)
• Certification as a Pathologists’ Assistant, PA (ASCP)
• Extensive knowledge of human anatomy, pathology, and surgical specimen handling
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to produce accurate, thorough documentation
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to meet CLIA qualifications for high-complexity testing personnel

Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience as a Pathologists’ Assistant in a hospital or reference laboratory
• Autopsy experience
• Experience with intraoperative frozen sections and complex oncologic resections
• Familiarity with LIS platform (Epic Beaker) and dictation systems
• Experience with specimen photography and digital imaging
• Familiarity with CAP checklist requirements and laboratory quality management systems
• Teaching or precepting experience

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods, perform repetitive reaching and bending, and lift and carry up to 20 lbs
• Frequent exposure to formalin, other chemicals, and biological materials, with required use of PPE and engineering controls
• Ability to handle fine detail work and perform manual dissection with precision

What DMG Offers

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including Health/Vision/Dental insurance effective on day one and 401(k) matching
• Generous PTO and 10 paid holidays per year
• Employee discounts, Rich Wellness Program and EAP at no cost to employees, fitness location memberships, pet care discount program
• Continuing education support and professional development opportunities
• A collaborative, mission-driven team that values quality patient care and opportunities for growth
• #CHP