Pathologist Assistant

Provide assistance to Pathologists in performing necropsy and gross tissue examinations. Under the direction of a Pathologist, performs dissection and gross description of large, complex surgical specimens requiring the exercise of independent judgment, submitting the tissue for histopathological or neuropathological examination as required and dictates reports of gross findings. Participates fully in the performance of both hospital and medico-legal autopsies. Other functions, including resident teaching, support these roles and provide allied services to the Department.

**PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES**:

- Evaluates methods procedures and techniques, makes suggestions for improvement.
- Under the direction of a Pathologist, performs full autopsies in lieu of residents or pathologist, submits specimens for further laboratory examinations as required and causes a report to be created of gross dissection and description.
- Under the direction of a Pathologist, performs dissection and gross descriptions of surgical specimens from various sources, submits tissue for histopathological or neuropathological examination as required and dictates reports of gross findings.
- Maintains quality of Autopsy and Surgical gross description services by training and monitoring residents and attendants, reviewing the dissection techniques and the quality of photography.
- Performs photography and photomicrography of autopsy and surgical material as required.
- Acts as a resource person for resident and attending staff in cases of special dissection of difficult cases.
- Shall ensure that all specimens submitted for testing meet the criteria established for acceptance to establish a diagnosis, evaluate margins and staging of malignancy, etc.
- Adheres to worker responsibilities as set out in the Occupational Health & Safety Act, hospital safety policies, and dept/unit established procedures at all times.
- Takes corrective action to address a hazard where possible, otherwise reports the unresolved hazard, dangerous circumstance, unsafe situation to self, other co-workers or the community, to their supervisor.
- Advises supervisor if they incur a workplace injury or illness; actively participate in identifying and resolving the underlying cause(s), and participates in early and safe return to work as per Workplace Safety & Insurance Act.
- Understands and is familiar with all pertinent KHSC policies and procedures including those relating to workplace conduct. Complies with the KHSC Commitment to uphold the Workplace Conduct and Reporting of Inappropriate Conduct policy and behaves in a manner that is consistent with the guiding principles and expectations.

**BASIC QUALIFICATIONS**:

- Graduate of a Pathologist Assistant Master’s program or University degree in life sciences, biology, zoology or equivalent.
- Certified Pathologist Assistant from the American Society of Pathologist Assistants preferred.
- 2 years’ experience during the last 5 years preferred, in anatomical dissection of all types of tissues removed during surgical and necropsy procedures in an academic teaching hospital.
- Demonstrated skills and abilities in complex gross surgical and autopsy dissection, with high level of manual dexterity.
- Demonstrated ability to work under pressure and maintain high level of productivity.
- Demonstrated computer literacy, including experience with Laboratory Information System (LIS) preferred.
- Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Ontario Laboratory Accreditation (OLA) requirements, and quality assurance principles preferred.
- Proven written and verbal communication skills.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact tactfully with staff, physicians, other hospital staff and other clients.
- Ability to work harmoniously in a team environment.
- Proven ability to perform duties independently, with a high degree of motivation and mínimal supervision.
- Demonstrated ability to attend work on a regular basis
- Maintains confidentiality.
- Ability to attend work on a regular basis.
- Satisfactory criminal reference check and vulnerable sector search is required.

**PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS**:
The applicant must be able to meet the physical demands of the position.
- We thank all applicants, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Kingston Health Sciences Centre is committed to inclusive and accessible employment practices. _
- If you require an accommodation to fully participate in the hiring process, please notify the Recruitment Team._

**KHSC is located on the ancestral lands and waters of the Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee and serves a wider geographical area that encompasses many Indigenous communities including Tyendinaga, Katarokwi, as well as communities within the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority. As we partner in care, discovery, and learning to achieve better health outcomes for our communities, KHSC is committed to actively advocating for and acting upon the Trut