Pathology Assistant | Athens, GA | 90-Day Contract | Onsite | Laboratory
Provide critical laboratory support in a pathology department, specializing in gross specimen preparation, dissection, and examination under pathologist supervision. This 90-day contract position involves specimen processing, anatomical preparation, autopsy techniques, and educational support in a clinical laboratory environment.
POSITION OVERVIEW:
• Title: Pathology Assistant
• Type: Contract
• Duration: 90 days (May 18, 2026 – August 31, 2026)
• Hours: 40 hours per week
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM EST
• Work Type: Onsite
• Reporting Location: Athens, GA (1230 Baxter St.)
• Department: Pathology Laboratory (LAP)
• Start Date: May 18, 2026
• No holidays or weekends required
COMPENSATION:
• Pay Rate: $88.45/hour
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
GROSS SPECIMEN PROCESSING & PREPARATION:
• Perform gross description of surgical specimens
• Prepare surgical specimens for examination and analysis
• Perform dissection of surgical specimens of human tissue
• Document specimen characteristics and findings
• Organize and categorize specimens appropriately
• Ensure proper specimen handling and preservation
• Maintain specimen integrity throughout processing
AUTOPSY PROCEDURES:
• Perform preparations necessary for human post-mortem examinations
• Execute standard autopsy techniques under pathologist supervision
• Collect and prepare tissues for examination
• Document autopsy findings
• Assist pathologist with complete autopsy procedures
• Ensure proper handling of deceased individuals
SPECIMEN & TISSUE MANAGEMENT:
• Obtain samples used for bio-specimen banking
• Process tissue samples for storage and future analysis
• Maintain specimen banking documentation
• Track specimen chain of custody
• Ensure proper labeling and organization of specimens
• Support biorepository operations
ANATOMICAL WORK:
• Perform gross dissection skills on surgical specimens
• Use appropriate dissection techniques
• Handle anatomical specimens with precision and care
• Prepare tissue sections for microscopic examination
• Support anatomical photography and documentation
• Maintain anatomical specimen standards
ANATOMICAL PHOTOGRAPHY:
• Capture high-quality photographs of gross specimens
• Document specimen appearance and characteristics
• Organize and file anatomical images
• Support visual documentation requirements
• Ensure proper lighting and angle for medical photography
• Maintain photography standards and protocols
EDUCATION & TRAINING:
• Instruct in anatomy and physiology to staff and students
• Provide education in gross pathology
• Train pathologists' assistant students and residents
• Educate fellows in pathology procedures
• Train other personnel working in pathology lab
• Support clinical training programs
• Demonstrate proper techniques and procedures
RESEARCH SUPPORT:
• Participate in ongoing research projects
• Support research specimen collection and preparation
• Assist with research data collection
• Help organize research materials
• Support research protocols and procedures
• Document research activities
ADMINISTRATIVE & SUPERVISORY DUTIES:
• Perform assigned administrative tasks
• Assist with supervisory functions as needed
• Support budgetary and financial tracking
• Maintain laboratory records and documentation
• Support teaching and educational responsibilities
• Perform other assigned duties as required
REQUIREMENTS:
CERTIFICATIONS & CREDENTIALS:
• ASCP-PA (American Society for Clinical Pathology – Pathologist's Assistant) certification (required)
• Current state medical laboratory certification or eligibility (preferred)
• Current CPR/BLS certification (preferred)
EXPERIENCE:
• Minimum 2 years of pathology assistant experience required
• Gross specimen preparation and dissection experience
• Autopsy technique experience
• Laboratory environment experience
• Medical specimen handling experience
• Educational and training experience preferred
• Contract/traveler pathology experience a plus
TECHNICAL & CLINICAL KNOWLEDGE:
• Expert understanding of anatomical structures and terminology
• Comprehensive knowledge of pathology procedures
• Proficiency in specimen handling and preparation techniques
• Understanding of autopsy protocols and standards
• Knowledge of bio-specimen banking procedures
• Familiarity with anatomical photography
• Understanding of laboratory safety and protocols
• Knowledge of medical terminology
SKILLS & ABILITIES:
• Excellent manual dexterity and precision
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong organizational and documentation skills
• Ability to follow complex procedures
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods
• Comfort working with human tissue and specimens
• Professional and compassionate demeanor
SOFT SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES:
• Excellent attention to detail and precision
• Respect for specimens and deceased individuals
• Professional and ethical approach to work
• Reliable and punctual
• Strong work ethic and commitment to quality
• Collaborative team approach
• Ability to work in sensitive environment
• Continuous learner
• Respect for confidentiality and privacy
• Emotional resilience
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Ability to stand for extended periods (8+ hours)
• Manual dexterity for detailed dissection work
• Ability to lift and move specimens and equipment (up to 30 lbs)
• Ability to work with blood and body fluids
• Ability to wear protective equipment
• Physical stamina for laboratory work
IDEAL CANDIDATE:
• Experienced Pathology Assistant with 2+ years background
• ASCP-PA certified and licensed
• Strong specimen preparation and dissection skills
• Comfortable with autopsy and post-mortem work
• Excellent attention to detail and precision
• Emotionally mature and professionally composed
• Strong educator and communicator
• Detail-oriented with excellent documentation skills
• Reliable and committed to quality work
• Seeking flexible contract opportunity
CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
ASCP-PA Certification (Required)
Current CPR/BLS (Preferred)
LOCATION:
• Athens, GA 30606
• Onsite at healthcare facility (1230 Baxter St.)
• Pathology Laboratory setting
WORK SCHEDULE:
• 40 hours per week
• Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM EST
• Standard laboratory day shift
• No holidays or weekends required
• Occasional flexibility for laboratory needs
CONTRACT DETAILS:
• Start Date: May 18, 2026
• End Date: August 31, 2026
• Duration: 90 days
• Positions Available: 1
IDEAL FOR:
• Pathology Assistants seeking contract opportunities
• ASCP-PA certified professionals
• Laboratory professionals with specimen expertise
• Professionals seeking flexible contract placement
• Experienced pathology staff seeking temporary assignments
• Healthcare professionals interested in pathology work