Job Description
The Pathologist Assistant II reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.
In collaboration with the pathologist, the Pathologist Assistant II is responsible for the gross pathology description and sampling of biopsy and/or other selected complex surgical tissue specimens. The dissection sampling and description is performed in accordance with established procedures to aid the pathologist in establishing the diagnosis. The Pathologist Assistant II assists with resident training and provides a variety of activities in support of basic laboratory operations.
Responsibilities:
- Performs all duties as scheduled by pathologist.
- Performs gross examination and dissection of surgical biopsies and large complicated specimens. Maintains specimen integrity and accurate legible specimen identification throughout all technical and clerical processes. Produces high-quality, high-volume work in a timely fashion, always finding better/more efficient ways to do things.
- Provides assistance with intra-operative consultations. Cuts, stains, and coverslips cryostat sections for timely review. Documents appropriate turn-around-time tracking information.
- Prepares specimens for imaging and photographs specimens. Maintains imaging equipment and files. Organizes radiology files and photography.
- Participates in perinatal and adult autopsies as assigned. Reviews autopsy permit and patient charts. Performs related autopsy procedures, reviews gross and microscopic findings with attending, and prepares draft PAD as appropriate.
- Assists with orientation and instruction of pathology residents and medical students in Surgical Pathology and Autopsy procedures to include specimen description, dissections, dictation techniques, basic specimen handling, and use of Anatomic Pathology equipment. Provides clinical performance feedback on pathology residents.
- Prepares materials and participates in conferences with residents, pathologists, and clinical staff.
- Assists in grossing and distributing tissues and organs to approved researchers. Performs technical and clerical tasks related to research projects.
- Exercises independent judgment in the performance of technical responsibilities. Prioritizes technical workload based on assignment or established priorities, responds effectively to changes in workflow adjusting work to incorporate STAT requests or fluctuations in work volume.
- Practices the proficient and safe use of all equipment necessary for the completion of all duties and responsibilities within defined turn-around times. Cleans, disinfects, performs, and documents routine equipment and workspace maintenance per SOP. Reports equipment or instrument malfunctions appropriately.
- Assists manager and/or pathologist in development and implementing new and special procedures or techniques. May assist in maintaining procedure manuals in accordance with practice guidelines and requirements of regulatory agencies.
- Participates in quality and process improvement efforts. Identifies ways to improve work processes and improve customer satisfaction. Makes recommendations to manager, implements and monitors changes as requested.
- Maintains a clean and safe work area. Follows established laboratory safety procedures in accordance with those regulatory bodies such as OSHA, FDA, EPA, etc. Observes and practices Universal Precautions when handling biohazardous material. Assumes a proactive role in laboratory safety and participates in development of safety protocols in surgical pathology. Performs minor spill cleanup per SOP when necessary.
- Participates in cost containment initiatives. Responsible for efficient use of supplies and reagents and proper operation of instrumentation.
- Provides backup assistance in a variety of activities in support of basic laboratory operations.
- Records all documentation consistently and legibly. May create Standard Operating Procedures. Maintains manuals and electronic records for easy retrieval of data as necessary. Investigates, escalates, and documents any discrepancies or unresolved issues appropriately.
- Fosters department and laboratory teamwork through effective communication. Adapts to change and handles stressful situations effectively
- Takes initiative for personal development by attending teleconferences, educational sessions, and required meetings, etc.
- Works off shifts and weekends as needed dependent on workload and department schedule.
Qualifications
Required:
- Masters of Science
- Pathologist Assistant II’s degree, and Pathologist Assistant II Certification (ASCP) or eligible for certification or Illinois licensed MD/DO with current or completed enrollment in anatomical pathology
Additional Information
Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.
Background Check
Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check. Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.
Artificial Intelligence Disclosure
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
Benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.
Sign-on Bonus Eligibility: Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family.
