Pathology Assistant

Pathology Assistant | Athens, GA | 90-Day Contract | Onsite | Laboratory

Provide critical laboratory support in a pathology department, specializing in gross specimen preparation, dissection, and examination under pathologist supervision. This 90-day contract position involves specimen processing, anatomical preparation, autopsy techniques, and educational support in a clinical laboratory environment.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

• Title: Pathology Assistant

• Type: Contract

• Duration: 90 days (May 18, 2026 – August 31, 2026)

• Hours: 40 hours per week

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM EST

• Work Type: Onsite

• Reporting Location: Athens, GA (1230 Baxter St.)

• Department: Pathology Laboratory (LAP)

• Start Date: May 18, 2026

• No holidays or weekends required

COMPENSATION:

• Pay Rate: $88.45/hour

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

GROSS SPECIMEN PROCESSING & PREPARATION:

• Perform gross description of surgical specimens

• Prepare surgical specimens for examination and analysis

• Perform dissection of surgical specimens of human tissue

• Document specimen characteristics and findings

• Organize and categorize specimens appropriately

• Ensure proper specimen handling and preservation

• Maintain specimen integrity throughout processing

AUTOPSY PROCEDURES:

• Perform preparations necessary for human post-mortem examinations

• Execute standard autopsy techniques under pathologist supervision

• Collect and prepare tissues for examination

• Document autopsy findings

• Assist pathologist with complete autopsy procedures

• Ensure proper handling of deceased individuals

SPECIMEN & TISSUE MANAGEMENT:

• Obtain samples used for bio-specimen banking

• Process tissue samples for storage and future analysis

• Maintain specimen banking documentation

• Track specimen chain of custody

• Ensure proper labeling and organization of specimens

• Support biorepository operations

ANATOMICAL WORK:

• Perform gross dissection skills on surgical specimens

• Use appropriate dissection techniques

• Handle anatomical specimens with precision and care

• Prepare tissue sections for microscopic examination

• Support anatomical photography and documentation

• Maintain anatomical specimen standards

ANATOMICAL PHOTOGRAPHY:

• Capture high-quality photographs of gross specimens

• Document specimen appearance and characteristics

• Organize and file anatomical images

• Support visual documentation requirements

• Ensure proper lighting and angle for medical photography

• Maintain photography standards and protocols

EDUCATION & TRAINING:

• Instruct in anatomy and physiology to staff and students

• Provide education in gross pathology

• Train pathologists' assistant students and residents

• Educate fellows in pathology procedures

• Train other personnel working in pathology lab

• Support clinical training programs

• Demonstrate proper techniques and procedures

RESEARCH SUPPORT:

• Participate in ongoing research projects

• Support research specimen collection and preparation

• Assist with research data collection

• Help organize research materials

• Support research protocols and procedures

• Document research activities

ADMINISTRATIVE & SUPERVISORY DUTIES:

• Perform assigned administrative tasks

• Assist with supervisory functions as needed

• Support budgetary and financial tracking

• Maintain laboratory records and documentation

• Support teaching and educational responsibilities

• Perform other assigned duties as required

REQUIREMENTS:

CERTIFICATIONS & CREDENTIALS:

• ASCP-PA (American Society for Clinical Pathology – Pathologist's Assistant) certification (required)

• Current state medical laboratory certification or eligibility (preferred)

• Current CPR/BLS certification (preferred)

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum 2 years of pathology assistant experience required

• Gross specimen preparation and dissection experience

• Autopsy technique experience

• Laboratory environment experience

• Medical specimen handling experience

• Educational and training experience preferred

• Contract/traveler pathology experience a plus

TECHNICAL & CLINICAL KNOWLEDGE:

• Expert understanding of anatomical structures and terminology

• Comprehensive knowledge of pathology procedures

• Proficiency in specimen handling and preparation techniques

• Understanding of autopsy protocols and standards

• Knowledge of bio-specimen banking procedures

• Familiarity with anatomical photography

• Understanding of laboratory safety and protocols

• Knowledge of medical terminology

SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Excellent manual dexterity and precision

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy

• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

• Strong organizational and documentation skills

• Ability to follow complex procedures

• Problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities

• Physical ability to stand for extended periods

• Comfort working with human tissue and specimens

• Professional and compassionate demeanor

SOFT SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES:

• Excellent attention to detail and precision

• Respect for specimens and deceased individuals

• Professional and ethical approach to work

• Reliable and punctual

• Strong work ethic and commitment to quality

• Collaborative team approach

• Ability to work in sensitive environment

• Continuous learner

• Respect for confidentiality and privacy

• Emotional resilience

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to stand for extended periods (8+ hours)

• Manual dexterity for detailed dissection work

• Ability to lift and move specimens and equipment (up to 30 lbs)

• Ability to work with blood and body fluids

• Ability to wear protective equipment

• Physical stamina for laboratory work

IDEAL CANDIDATE:

• Experienced Pathology Assistant with 2+ years background

• ASCP-PA certified and licensed

• Strong specimen preparation and dissection skills

• Comfortable with autopsy and post-mortem work

• Excellent attention to detail and precision

• Emotionally mature and professionally composed

• Strong educator and communicator

• Detail-oriented with excellent documentation skills

• Reliable and committed to quality work

• Seeking flexible contract opportunity

CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

ASCP-PA Certification (Required)

Current CPR/BLS (Preferred)

LOCATION:

• Athens, GA 30606

• Onsite at healthcare facility (1230 Baxter St.)

• Pathology Laboratory setting

WORK SCHEDULE:

• 40 hours per week

• Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM EST

• Standard laboratory day shift

• No holidays or weekends required

• Occasional flexibility for laboratory needs

CONTRACT DETAILS:

• Start Date: May 18, 2026

• End Date: August 31, 2026

• Duration: 90 days

• Positions Available: 1

IDEAL FOR:

• Pathology Assistants seeking contract opportunities

• ASCP-PA certified professionals

• Laboratory professionals with specimen expertise

• Professionals seeking flexible contract placement

• Experienced pathology staff seeking temporary assignments

• Healthcare professionals interested in pathology work