Pathology Assistant
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St Mary Medical Center
Long Beach, CA, US
Summary
The Pathology Assistant supports pathologists and histotechnologists in the preparation and processing of specimens for cytological and histological analysis. This role ensures accurate handling of clinical samples within the laboratory environment.
Job Description
Where You’ll Work
Founded in 1923, Dignity Health - St. Mary Medical Center is a 389-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located in Long Beach, California. Serving over 80,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including a Level II Trauma Center, Level III NICU, heart care, and orthopedics. Additionally, St. Mary Medical Center has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. It is a Joint Commission-certified Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center and received a Healthgrades 5-Star Award for Heart Failure in 2026. One Community. One Mission. One California
Job Summary and Responsibilities
As our Pathology Lab Assistant, you will perform essential technical and clerical activities related to the processing of tissue and body fluids. Your work is fundamental to providing the accurate samples required for examination and diagnosis by a pathologist.
Every day, you will conduct examinations of surgical specimens under the direct supervision and responsibility of a pathologist. You will ensure that each specimen is handled with precision and care throughout the diagnostic process.
To be successful in your role, you will demonstrate a high level of technical competency and meticulous attention to detail. Your ability to maintain organized workflows and adhere to rigorous laboratory standards is vital to supporting the pathologist in the diagnostic process.
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Conduct gross examination and dissection of surgical and autopsy specimens under the direct or indirect supervision of a pathologist, ensuring accurate documentation, tumor mapping, and comprehensive gross reporting.
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Review pertinent clinical information, history, imaging, and operative records, while coordinating with surgeons and clinicians to ensure all case details are thoroughly evaluated.
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Coordinate with histology technicians and laboratory staff to ensure prompt specimen accessioning, labeling, and processing to meet established reporting turnaround time goals.
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Perform frozen section processing, assist with intraoperative consultations, and obtain samples for research or other ancillary studies according to department standards.
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Ensure proper specimen handling, fixation, and CPT coding accuracy, while actively participating in the maintenance of surgical specimen archives in accordance with CAP and OSHA standards.
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Serve as an educational resource by providing instruction on specimen handling and processing, while monitoring quality, identifying error trends, and providing feedback to improve surgical pathology operations.
Job Requirements
Required
- Previous experience as a Histotechnologist and work in a clinical pathology setting.
- Bachelor's Degree or equivalent with a science major or a concentration in science courses.
