This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.
The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.
Summary
Under general supervision of a pathologist, independently performs or assists in accessioning, dissection, evisceration, description, autopsy, and histologic sampling of a full range of surgical specimens. Assists faculty in the supervision and training of entry level resident physicians and fellows in pathology.
Duties and Responsibilities
Performs and/or assists pathologists in the accessioning, dissection, evisceration, description autopsy, and histologic sampling of a full range of anatomical specimens.
Supervises and trains entry level resident physicians in pathology methodology and procedures, under guidance and within protocol parameters provided by medical professional staff;.
Performs frozen sections and other intra-operative consultations, within established protocol and procedural parameters.
Coordinates the acquisition of tissue specimens used for research purposes.
Maintains digital files, ensuring a high standard of specimen photography.
Participates in the accessioning and labeling of specimens, specimen storage and disposal, and the maintenance of reagents and equipment.
May complete postmortem examination reports.
May review, interpret, and present findings.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
Bachelor's degree from an accredited Pathologist Assistant program or in a medical or scientific field; at least 1 year of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Knowledge of accreditation and certification requirements and standards.
Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards.
Knowledge of accession, dissection, anatomical description, and histological sampling methods and techniques.
Records maintenance skills.
Knowledge of pathology procedures, protocols, and techniques.
Ability to perform frozen sections and other intra-operative consultations.
Knowledge of procedures, regulations, and standards for the acquisition of human tissue specimens for research.
Ability to supervise, advise, and train clinical professionals and/or students in area of expertise.
Knowledge of quality standards and requirements for pathology specimen photographs.
Knowledge of biological specimen disposition, maintenance and storage procedures and techniques.
Knowledge of chemical reagents and equipment used in pathology research.
Conditions of Employment
Current certification from the American Association of Pathologists' Assistants or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is preferred.
Must be credentialed per UNM HSC policies and procedures if billing for services under Medicare/Medicaid.
Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
Subject to credentialing process; must maintain credentialed status.
Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Work involves almost constant exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, toxic chemicals, biohazardous materials, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, and/or loud noises.
Moderate physical activity. Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.
The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.
