Pathology Assistant
Hilo, Hawaii
Hilo Medical Center

Job Opportunity: Pathology Assistant (Contract)

Location: Hilo, Hawaii
Employment Type: Contract Clinician
Contract Length: 13 weeks

Job Summary

The Pathology Assistant supports pathology staff by performing high complexity testing, gross examination, and dissection of surgical pathology specimens under the supervision of a pathologist. The role involves assisting with autopsies, specimen preparation, and related laboratory tasks.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education, training, and/or experience
• ASCP certification as a Pathologists’ Assistant strongly preferred (Affiliate or Fellow status in the American Association of Pathologists’ Assistants)
• If not certified, must obtain written approval from hospital pathologists confirming competency
• Minimum of 3 years of pathology laboratory experience preferred
• Knowledge of anatomic/medical terminology, CPT and ICD-9 coding
• Strong data entry and computer skills, including laboratory information systems
• Ability to pass pre-hire and periodic drug testing
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills (verbal and written)
• Ability to work at multiple sites and shifts as needed
• Must maintain confidentiality, safety, compliance, and legal requirements
• Consistent and reliable attendance

Essential Functions

• Prepare tissues for gross examination and perform dissections with dictation of gross descriptions
• Assist pathologists with frozen sections, FNA smear preparation, needle biopsies, and autopsies
• Submit specimens for histologic examination following proper protocols
• Label and handle specimens, slides, and blocks accurately
• Maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, including staining stations and cryostats
• Follow standard operating procedures, laboratory safety, and infection control policies
• Neutralize waste formalin and assist with biohazard waste disposal
• Accurately accession and code specimens in the laboratory information system
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, pathologists, and co-workers to ensure department efficiency

Physical Requirements

• Moderate to occasional heavy physical effort (lifting/carrying up to 30 pounds)
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, and crouching
• Finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination required
• Ability to hear, see, and respond adequately
• Travel to various sites by auto or airplane as needed

Working Environment

• Air-conditioned laboratory and morgue settings
• Exposure to cadavers, potentially diseased organs, biohazardous fluids, and hazardous chemicals
• Frequent hand washing and cleaning
• Possible extended work hours and interruptions

Skills and Competencies

• Technical competence in pathology assistant duties
• Resourcefulness and effective time management
• Problem-solving skills using data and logic
• Results-driven with a focus on accuracy and quality
• Collaborative team player
• Strong prioritization and time management
• Analytical and methodical approach to work

Prior Travel Experience

• Not explicitly required

This position is ideal for experienced Pathology Assistants seeking a contract role in a clinical laboratory setting with opportunities to work across multiple sites.