PATHOLOGY TECHNICIAN

PATHOLOGY TECHNICIAN Location: JOHN H. STROGER, JR. HOSPITAL Department: Pathology Shift: 8:00am - 4:00pm Salary is commensurate with years of experience indicated at time of application submittal. Experience not disclosed or documented at the time of application will not be considered for initial step placement. Job Summary The Pathology Technician provides services in Anatomic Pathology under the supervision and general direction of the Anatomic Pathology Leadership, as assigned. The Pathology Technician provides support to the Gross room, Histology and Cytology laboratory related to accessioning, specimen processing and routine preparation of microscopic slides.  This position is responsible for accurate processing, documenting, and communication of issues with pathologists, residents, and other staff. Typical Duties * Assesses the order requisition forms and specimens to match for patient identification * Retrieves specimens for processes. * Processes orders electronically and/or manually. * Accurately labels specimens, slides, and worksheets. * Prepares slides for microscopic review. * Correlates paperwork with specimens and submits to staff. * Documents specimen tracking information. * Reconciles pending file, and orders while monitoring work distribution, including paraffin blocks and cassettes. * Prepares documents, processes specimens and slides for send outs. * Logs temperature and humidity, troubleshoots, and informs the supervisor of occurrences. * Documents consistently and legibly.  Maintains manual and electronic records for easy retrieval of data. Investigates, escalates, and documents any discrepancies. * Answers inquiries related to blocks, slides, and case status. * Assists with case consults. * Remains current with best lab safety practices including working with Cryostats, Centrifuges, Cytospins, specimen processors, automated stainers and cover slipper, etc. * Aliquots specimens including those for virology and molecular testing. * Escalates any equipment or instrument malfunctions. * Monitors laboratory inventory to maintain supply levels. * Attends and participates in Safety and Infection Control activities, as requested. * Reports to the Anatomic Pathology Leadership. * Performs other duties as assigned. * Organizes the work area, maintenance of tools, and supplying equipment in autopsy area. * Ensures cleanliness and sanitation of the autopsy area. Gross and Morgue duties, when assigned: * Works with admissions and bed control to initiate autopsy requests * Assists with autopsy by recording, documenting, filing pictures for autopsy and surgical pathology specimens Histology duties, when assigned: * Performs decalcification * Processes blocks for molecular and genetic testing Cytology duties, when assigned: * Accessions and processes gynecological and on-gynecological specimens Minimum Qualifications * Associate's degree or higher in a scientific field from an accredited college or university with one (1) year of experience in cytology, histology, gross room or morgue * OR * Associate's degree or higher in a scientific field from an accredited college or university with three (3) years of experience in clinical laboratory and/or pathology Preferred Qualifications * For morgue - experience as an autopsy technician or work experience in a funeral home, morgue, body transport service, or Medical Examiner's/Coroner's office * Experience in a morgue environment which requires physical proximity to deceased human remains and exposure to unpleasant sights, smells, blood and other body fluids Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics * · Knowledge of standard laboratory operating procedures * Basic knowledge of human anatomy and standard autopsy procedures * · Excellent verbal, written communication, and interpersonal skills necessary to communicate with all levels of staff and a patient population composed of diverse cultures and age groups * · Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to prioritize, plan, and organize projects and tasks * · Demonstrate analytical and organizational, problem-solving, decision-making, critical thinking, and conflict management/resolution skills * · Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines in a fast paced and stressful environment * · Ability to adhere to department policies and standards utilizing best practices * · Ability to maintain a professional demeanor and composure when challenged * · Ability to handle confidential information Physical and Environmental Demands This position is functioning within a healthcare environment.  The incumbent is responsible for adherence to all hospital and department specific safety requirements.  This includes but is not limited to the following policies and procedures:  complying with Personal Protective Equipment requirements, hand washing and sanitizing practices, complying with department specific engineering and work practice controls and any other work area safety precautions as specified by hospital wide policy and departmental procedures. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the personnel so classified. For purposes of the American with Disabilities Act, "Typical Duties" are essential job functions. VETERAN PREFERENCE PLEASE READ When applying for employment with the Cook County Health & Hospitals System, preference is given to honorably discharged Veterans who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States for not less than 6 months of continuous service To take advantage of this preference a Veteran must: * Meet the minimum qualifications for the position. * Identify self as a Veteran on the employment application by answering yes to the question by answering yes to the question, "Are you a Military Veteran?" * Attach a copy of their DD 214, DD 215 or NGB 22 (Notice of Separation at time of application filing.  Please note:  If you have multiple DD214s, 215s, or NGB 22S, please submit the one with the latest date.  Coast Guard must submit a certified copy of the military separation from either the Department of Transportation (Before 9/11) or the Department of Homeland Security (After 9/11). Discharge papers must list and Honorable Discharge Status.  Discharge papers not listing an Honorable Discharge Status are not acceptable OR * A copy of a valid State ID Card or Driver's License which identifies the holder of the ID as a Veteran, may also be attached to the application at time of filing. If items are not attached, you will not be eligible for Veteran Preference VETERANS MUST PROVIDE ORIGINAL APPLICABLE DISCHARGE PAPERS OR APPLICABLE STATE ID CARD OR DRIVER'S LICENSE AT TIME OF INTERVIEW. BENEFITS PACKAGE Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage Basic Term Life Insurance Pension Plan and Deferred Compensation Program Employee Assistance Program Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time You may also qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) 100% Tuition reimbursement for nursing-related programs For further information on our excellent benefits package, please click on the following link:  MUST MEET ALL REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AT TIME OF APPLICATION FILING. * Degrees awarded outside of the United States with the exception of those awarded in one of the United States' territories and Canada must be credentialed by an approved U. S. credential evaluation service belonging to the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or the Association of International Credential Evaluators (AICE). Original credentialing documents must be presented at time of interview. * * Please note all offers of employment are contingent upon the following conditions: satisfactory professional & employment references, healthcare and criminal background checks, appropriate licensure/certifications and the successful completion of a physical and pre-employment drug screen. * CCHHS is strictly prohibited from conditioning, basing or knowingly prejudicing or affecting any term or aspect of County employment or hiring upon or because of any political reason or factor. COOK COUNTY HEALTH & HOSPITALS SYSTEM IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Created: 2026-04-15