Pathologist Assistant

We're seeking an experienced Pathologist Assistant to support a busy pathology department in Tampa, FL on a 13-week assignment. This role offers a wide variety of case types, ranging from tech-level biopsies to complex specimens such as Whipple's, cyst prostatectomies, lungs and more. This is a great short-term opportunity for an ASCP-certified PA who thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys stepping into impactful contract roles while working alongside a skilled and collaborative pathology team. Summary: The Pathologist Assistant provides comprehensive anatomic pathology services under the direction and supervision of a licensed, board-certified or board-eligible pathologist. This position is qualified to perform all surgical and autopsy functions of a pathologist leading up to but not including the final diagnosis. Primary Responsibilities: Assure appropriate specimen accessioning. Obtain clinical history, including scans, X-rays, laboratory data, and other relevant documentation. Describe gross anatomic features, dissect surgical specimens, and prepare tissues for histologic processing. Obtain biological specimens such as blood, tissue, and toxicological material for studies including flow cytometry, image analysis, and immunohistochemistry; perform special procedures such as imaging and tumor triage. Photograph pertinent gross specimens and microscopic slides. Perform administrative duties related to the maintenance of surgical pathology protocols and reports, including filing reports, protocols, photographs, and microscopic slides; and ensure completion of specimen coding and billing. Ensure proper maintenance of equipment, adequate supply levels, and cleanliness of the surgical pathology suite. Assist in organizing and coordinating anatomic pathology conferences. Provide holiday and weekend coverage as needed. Preparation of Human Postmortem Examinations Includes: Ascertaining proper legal authorization for autopsy. Retrieving the patient's medical chart and other pertinent data for review with the attending pathologist(s). Conferring with pathologist(s) to determine special techniques and procedures required for the postmortem examination (e.g., cultures, smears, histochemical studies, immunofluorescence, toxicology, viral studies, electron microscopy) and notifying involved personnel. Notifying the physician in charge, the funeral home, and other appropriate authorities prior to beginning the autopsy, and coordinating any special specimen sampling requests (e.g., organ transplantation, research). Performing postmortem examinations, including external examination, in situ organ inspection, evisceration, dissection, and dictation or recording of data such as organ weights, body fluid presence, and gross anatomic findings. Selecting, preparing, and submitting appropriate gross tissue sections for frozen section analysis, light microscopy, electron microscopy, and immunofluorescent studies. Obtaining biological specimens such as blood, tissue, and toxicological material for studies including flow cytometry, image analysis, and immunohistochemistry; and performing specialized procedures such as coronary artery perfusion, CNS perfusion, enucleation, inner ear bone dissection, and spinal cord removal. Photographing the body, organs, microscopic slides, and other pertinent materials. Gathering and organizing clinical information pertinent to preparing the preliminary clinical history summary. Preparing the body for release, including identifying biohazards such as contagious diseases or radiation implants, and releasing the body to the appropriate mortuary or funeral home. Ensuring proper maintenance of equipment, adequate supply levels, and cleanliness of the autopsy suite. Knowledge and Skill Requirements: Strong attention to detail Excellent written and oral communication skills Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues Excellent interpersonal skills for working with hospital staff, pathologists, and providers Outstanding time management skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to gather and analyze information while maintaining confidentiality Dependability-consistent attendance, punctuality, adherence to instructions, responsiveness to direction, and openness to feedback Required Education: Bachelor's degree Graduation from a Pathologist Assistant program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) ASCP certification About Us: At Lighthouse Lab Services, we offer solutions to help start, grow, and run clinical laboratories. Our recruiting team has had over 20 years of proven success placing job seekers in positions ranging from entry-level Medical Technologists to seasoned Laboratory Directors. We recruit nationwide, for permanent and travel positions with clients ranging from small hospitals to large reference laboratories. It is the policy of Lighthouse Lab Services to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. In addition, Lighthouse Lab Services will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities. Lighthouse Lab Services | 800-838-0602 | lighthouselabservices.com #LLS3

Created: 2026-03-10