Senior Pathology Technical Assistant AA

Under the overall supervision of the Chief of Pathology/Laboratory Director and the Laboratory Administrative Director or designee and under the direct supervision of the grossing pathologist to prepare human surgical specimens for gross description and dissection including description of gross features and selection of tissues for histological examination. Assists pathologist in the receipt, preparation and examination of surgical tissue specimens and autopsies. May be regularly assigned to direct and check the work of one or more Pathology Technical Assistants; or who have demonstrated ability to perform the most complex techniques and procedures of the classification in accordance with the specifications set by the Chief of Pathology/Lab Director. Assures that all specimens are appropriately logged, processed and disposed of in a timely and safe manner. All tasks are to be done courteously and correctly; using judgment to respond appropriately to changing workload.

• Essential Functions:




• A. Receives, transports, verifies identification, logs, and prepares gross surgical and cytology specimens received in pathology:

• 1. May be required to pick up and transport all pathology specimens from laboratory and surgery, verifying specimen identification. Resolves discrepancies.




• 2. Labels specimens, requisitions, cassettes with surgical accession number, legibly and accurately.




• 3. Enters accession number, patient and specimen identifiers into computer database.




• 4. Processes, prepares and sends specimens to outside laboratory; accurately completes all associated paperwork.




• 5. Processes, prepares and distributes intra-facility consultations.




• 6. Performs tissue sections according to written policies and procedures.

• B. Assists pathologist with gross examination:

• 1. Sets up necessary equipment, supplies and specimens for gross examination.




• 2. Assists pathologist with gross examination of surgical specimens, and amputated limbs under direct supervision of the pathologist. Stores specimens after examination.




• 3. Assists pathologist to perform the gross examinations and dictation of surgical specimens according to written policies and procedures under direct supervision of the pathologist.




• 4. Assists pathologist to perform the cutting of various specimens according to established policies and procedures under direct supervision of the pathologist.




• 5. Disinfects area/ instruments including cryostat.




• 6. Assists pathologist preparing fetal/infant cadavers and associated paperwork for shipment to fetal pathologist.




• 7. Cut and stain frozen section under direct supervision of the pathologist.








• C. Maintains wet tissue storage: