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The Surgical Pathologist Technician reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

Responsibilities:

• Provides assistance to all staff pathologists and residents with pickup, delivery, and order entry of tissue specimens into the laboratory computer system, preparation of tissues for gross examination, referral and delivery of samples and supply orders, and customer service, specimen collection and receipt information via phone and direct communication.
• Communication with clients, clinics, operating rooms, pathologists, residents, and supervisors regarding specimen problems.
• Participate in the laboratory occurrence management program.
• Receive specimens in the surgical pathology laboratory per SOP.
• Document specimen receipt and reconcile specimen logs with appropriate follow-up as necessary.
• Verify specimen and requisition meet acceptable criteria per SOP.
• Take necessary corrective action with appropriate OR, clinic, or physician's office to resolve any specimen and requisition discrepancies or deficiencies. Document any deficiencies per SOP.
• Escalate any issues to management staff appropriately.
• Prioritize specimen processing based on established guidelines.
• Accession specimens into the Laboratory Information System.
• Label requisitions and specimen containers accurately. Generate accurately labeled tissue cassettes.
• Collate paperwork, specimens, and tissue cassettes. Maintain specimen storage areas.
• Triage surgical and autopsy specimens qualifying for disposal.
• Discard specimens per SOP.
• Answer routine inquiries related to specimen handling and case status.
• Triage department phone calls appropriately.
• Record all documentation consistently and legibly.
• Maintain files, requisitions, specimen delivery logs, problem logs for easy retrieval of data as necessary.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment to ensure efficient workflow and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Clean, disinfect, and perform routine maintenance in specimen receiving.
• Perform minor spill cleanup per SOP when necessary.
• Foster department and laboratory teamwork through effective communication.
• Participate in Safety and Infection Control activities.
• Maintain supply stock.
• Promptly notify management staff of supply shortages or supply delivery problems.
• Take initiative for personal development by attending teleconferences, educational sessions, and required meetings, etc.
• Some assignments involve long periods of standing. Some assignments involve lifting or pushing carts up to 50lbs.
• Some assignments involve walking to other hospital and clinic buildings.
• May be required to properly handle and dispose of hazardous materials.
• Personal protective equipment is provided by the laboratory and is worn in the department due to exposure to biohazardous or chemically hazardous materials.

AA/EOE.

Required:

• High school diploma.
• Strong attention to detail and number recognition skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to multi-task and work within tight time constraints.
• Effective inter-personal skills.
• Computer experience with keyboard proficiency.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel applications.
• Ability to maintain accurate and legible documentation.
• Familiarity with medical terminology.

Preferred:

• A.S. degree.
• Prior work experience in laboratory support or health related experience.

Northwestern Medicine is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.