Pathologists’ Assistant #034-26

CLASSIFICATION: PATHOLOGISTS' ASSISTANT

DEPARTMENT: LABORATORY POSITION LOCATION: OWEN SOUND

UNION AFFILIATION: OPSEU – HPD

REASON TO POST: NEW POSITION

STATUS: FULL-TIME

WAGE RATE: $42.24 - $53.28

The Pathologists’ Assistant provides services in Anatomic Pathology that helps increase the efficiency of the department and the Pathologists. The Pathologists’ Assistant must have excellent knowledge of human anatomy and assume major responsibility for the initial examination, dissection and gross dictation of tissue samples.

Qualifications / Skills / Abilities:

Required

• Certification as a Pathologists’ Assistant through the Canadian Certification Council of Pathologists’ Assistants (CCCPA-CCCAP).
• Successful completion of a NAACLS‑accredited Master’s Pathologists’ Assistant program and CCCPA‑CCCAP certification exam, or Grandfathered certification under previous CCCPA‑CCCAP eligibility criteria.
• In good standing with the PA section of CCCPA
• Knowledge of initial specimen examination, gross dissection of tissue samples and dictation procedures, to be demonstrated; knowledge of preparation, storage and disposal of tissue
• Must have extensive knowledge medical terminology, gross anatomy, microscopic anatomy, microbiology and pathology required
• Knowledge of anatomy and physiology with special emphasis on the pathological presentation of disease
• Knowledge and experience with CAP Cancer checklists
• Experience with frozen section microtomy, staining and bone decalcification an asset
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of regulatory requirements (e.g. CSA, OH&S, etc.)
• Experience with dedicated equipment and microscopes
• Ability to interact effectively with others within and outside of the organization (i.e. staff physicians, nurses, patients, suppliers, other laboratory technical staff, clerical staff, coroners, funeral homes and patients’ relatives)
• Voice recognition software experience is an asset as the PA is required to use electronic dictation for this position
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation
• Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication
• Ability to respect and maintain confidentiality
• Availability to work all shifts, and on an on‑call basis
• Ability to handle exposures to infection, noise, odours, working interruptions and high pressure situations
• Skills in leadership, conflict resolution, problem solving, decision making and critical thinking
• Demonstrated evidence of and commitment to maintaining clinical competence through continuing education
• Demonstrated knowledge of quality management and continuous improvement
• Demonstrated responsibility, accountability, and sound financial management skills
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple tasks and manage projects
• Strong team skills and diplomacy with a proven ability to perform duties independently, with a high degree of motivation and minimal supervision
• Demonstrated ability to embrace and support change
• Demonstrated commitment to excellent attendance and schedule flexibility
• Recent satisfactory performance and attendance records
• Adherence to Brightshores ‘CARE’ Behaviours (Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, Excellence) and ‘LEAD’ Competencies (Lead by example, Empower, Achieve results, Develop others) and a commitment to a safe workplace free of violence and harassment
• Advocates and supports a culture of patient safety and demonstrates an understanding of how the department service and assigned responsibilities contribute to overall patient safety at Brightshores through patient safety knowledge, skills and attitudes

Preferred

• Experience with the use of autopsy tools, their uses and maintenance
• Experience with DMO Dragon dictation