Pathologist Assistant

Department: Histopathology

Position Number: 50059114

Hours of Work: Temporary Full-Time Position (Approximately 12 Months); Day Shifts

Wage Range: $44.66 - $56.30

Union: OPSEU4106 Central

Location: Kingston General Hospital Site

DESCRIPTION:

To aid 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.

• Functions normal to those of an Autopsy Master.

• Functions normal to those of a Surgical Dissectionist.

• 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 KGH policies and procedures including those relating to workplace conduct. Complies with the KGH 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.

NOTE: The above duties and abilities are representative but are not to be construed as all-inclusive.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• B.Sc. with advanced level courses in anatomy and physiology or recognized equivalent.

• Successful completion of the Master’s program for Pathologists Assistant preferred.

• Certification with the Canadian Certification Council of Pathologists Assistants (CCCPA), the American Association of Pathologist’s Assistants (AAPA) or equivalent preferred.

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in anatomical dissection of simple and complex surgical and autopsy specimens preferred.

• Experience in assisting with/performing autopsies preferred.

• Knowledge of human anatomy and gross pathology in normal and disease states (cancer specimen experience preferred).

• 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 minimal supervision.

• Proven ability to attend work on a regular basis.

• Satisfactory criminal reference check and vulnerable sector search required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to be exposed to human tissue and to the dissection of same. Must be able to tolerate exposure to legal levels of formaldehyde.

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 Truth and Reconciliation Committee’s Calls to Action on Health.

Unless specifically stated, all job postings are for existing positions at KHSC. KHSC is committed to recruitment practices that support and contribute to building a respectful, diverse and inclusive workplace in compliance with legislation such as the Employment Standards Act and Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. We welcome all applications from women, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, persons in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and members of other equity deserving groups.

Kingston Health Sciences Centre may use artificial intelligence systems to assess and screen applicants. All hiring decisions are made in accordance with KHSC policies and applicable employment legislation.

We thank all applicants, but only those selected for next steps 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.