Anatomic Pathology Technologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of rapidly advancing medical technology, the importance of anatomic pathology technologists is increasingly evident.

As medical science progresses, the demand for knowledgeable individuals who can examine, analyze, and interpret pathological samples is ever-growing.

But let’s delve deeper: What are the real expectations for an anatomic pathology technologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of anatomic pathology technology,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable anatomic pathology technologist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Anatomic Pathology Technologist Duties and Responsibilities

Anatomic Pathology Technologists play a crucial role in the diagnosis and study of disease by preparing and examining tissues, cells, and body fluids under the guidance of a pathologist.

They are proficient in handling and processing specimens, performing diagnostic tests, and maintaining laboratory equipment.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Receive and log in tissue and fluid specimens for examination
• Prepare and process specimens for microscopic examination, including cutting, staining, and mounting
• Assist pathologists in the gross examination of surgical specimens
• Perform routine and special stains to highlight specific tissue or cellular components
• Prepare and maintain paraffin, reagents, and other materials for tissue processing
• Operate, clean, and perform minor maintenance on equipment used in histology
• Follow safety, infection control, and quality control procedures
• Record and maintain data related to specimen processing and test results
• Assist in the training of other laboratory staff or students
• Keep up-to-date with advancements in the field of anatomic pathology

 

Anatomic Pathology Technologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a meticulous and dedicated Anatomic Pathology Technologist to join our team.

In this role, you will be responsible for preparing and processing tissue specimens for microscopic examination by pathologists.

Your duties will include accessioning, gross examination, and processing of specimens, and maintaining related records.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of human anatomy, cellular biology, and the principles of histotechnology.

 

Responsibilities

• Receive, accession, and process tissue specimens for microscopic examination
• Prepare and stain slides for review by pathologists
• Maintain and organize patient records
• Operate and maintain lab equipment
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety procedures
• Assist in quality control and quality assurance activities
• Coordinate with team members and other healthcare professionals to ensure efficient workflow
• Stay abreast of current trends and advancements in anatomic pathology and histotechnology

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Anatomic Pathology Technologist or similar role
• Strong knowledge of human anatomy and cellular biology
• Proficient in histological technique and slide preparation
• Ability to use and maintain laboratory equipment
• Strong attention to detail and precision
• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment
• BSc degree in Biology, Medical Technology or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Anatomic Pathology Technologist
• Work Environment: Clinical or hospital laboratory setting
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Laboratory Manager or Pathologist
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Dependent on experience and qualifications
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Anatomic Pathology Technologist Do?

Anatomic Pathology Technologists primarily work in medical laboratories within hospitals, clinics, or research institutions.

They are crucial members of the pathology team, working in direct collaboration with pathologists, medical laboratory technicians, and other healthcare professionals.

Their primary responsibility is to assist in the diagnosis and study of diseases by preparing tissue samples for examination.

This includes performing various laboratory procedures such as gross dissection, fixation, processing, and embedding of tissue specimens.

In addition, they are responsible for staining and mounting tissue sections on slides, ensuring that they are correctly identified and ready for microscopic examination by pathologists.

They use different staining techniques depending on the type of tissue and the specific disease being investigated.

Anatomic Pathology Technologists also take part in the interpretation of test results, troubleshooting, and quality control, ensuring the accuracy of all procedures and results.

They maintain records of all tests and findings and adhere strictly to safety and hygiene regulations to prevent contamination.

Furthermore, they may also perform specialized procedures such as immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy, and molecular pathology.

They continuously update their knowledge and skills to keep up with the latest advancements and improvements in pathology technology.

Their work, though often unseen, is a critical part of the healthcare delivery system, enabling accurate diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

 

Anatomic Pathology Technologist Qualifications and Skills

An Anatomic Pathology Technologist should have the following skills and qualifications to meet the needs of this specialized role:

• Technical knowledge and competence in histological techniques and procedures, including tissue processing, embedding, sectioning, and staining.
• Understanding of laboratory safety protocols and adherence to strict safety standards to ensure a safe work environment.
• Ability to use microscopy and other diagnostic tools effectively and accurately, aiding in the accurate diagnosis of diseases.
• Detailed knowledge of human anatomy and physiology to understand and interpret pathological findings.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret and analyze patient data and test results.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, for discussing cases with pathologists and other medical professionals, and for writing pathology reports.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills to handle multiple specimens and maintain accurate records.
• Capability to work in a high-pressure environment and manage time effectively to meet tight deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving skills for troubleshooting issues with equipment or testing procedures.

 

Anatomic Pathology Technologist Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for an Anatomic Pathology Technologist role typically need to have a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience, which is often acquired through internships, part-time roles or clinical rotation in histology, cytology, or a similar laboratory field.

These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience in related roles such as Laboratory Assistant, Histotechnician, or Cytotechnician.

They should have experience in preparing tissue specimens for analysis, operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, and complying with safety regulations.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a broader understanding of histopathology and cytopathology, and may have developed specialized skills such as immunohistochemistry or molecular pathology.

They are typically more adept in performing microscopic examination and interpretation of tissue samples.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have gained some supervisory or managerial experience, making them ideal candidates for team lead positions or management roles within the pathology department.

They may also have experience in quality assurance, lab safety compliance, and staff training.

Furthermore, all candidates, regardless of years of experience, are expected to have a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and pathology.

They should also be familiar with laboratory information systems and have excellent attention to detail and documentation skills.

 

Anatomic Pathology Technologist Education and Training Requirements

Anatomic Pathology Technologists typically require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a scientific field such as biology, chemistry, or more specifically, medical laboratory science.

These degree programs provide a strong foundation in the scientific principles and laboratory skills necessary for this role.

They cover topics such as human anatomy, pathology, microbiology, immunology, and medical terminology.

In addition to a degree, most employers prefer candidates who are certified by a recognized professional body such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

To earn this certification, candidates must pass an exam that tests their knowledge and skills in anatomic pathology.

Due to the rapidly evolving nature of medical science, Anatomic Pathology Technologists should have a commitment to ongoing professional development.

They may also need additional training in specialized areas of pathology, such as cytology or histology.

While not a requirement, some technologists may choose to pursue a master’s degree in pathology or a related field to advance their careers.

This advanced degree can provide opportunities for leadership roles or specialized positions within the field of anatomic pathology.

To work in this role, technologists also need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure.

 

Anatomic Pathology Technologist Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Anatomic Pathology Technologist is $61,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can fluctuate depending on factors such as level of experience, educational background, geographic location, and the specific employer.

 

Anatomic Pathology Technologist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Anatomic Pathology Technologist need?

Anatomic Pathology Technologists need to have excellent attention to detail and precision to accurately process and prepare tissue specimens for examination.

They should also have good technical skills to operate and maintain laboratory equipment.

Additionally, they need to have good communication skills to interact with pathologists and other medical professionals.

 

Do Anatomic Pathology Technologists need a degree?

Most positions for Anatomic Pathology Technologists require a bachelor’s degree in histotechnology, biology, or a related field.

Some states may require technologists to be licensed, which typically involves passing an exam.

Some employers may also prefer candidates who have certification from a recognized professional organization, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology.

 

What should you look for in an Anatomic Pathology Technologist’s resume?

When reviewing a resume for an Anatomic Pathology Technologist, look for evidence of technical skills, such as proficiency with laboratory equipment and procedures, as well as any relevant certification or licensure.

Clinical experience in a lab setting, especially in anatomic pathology, is also highly desirable.

 

What qualities make a good Anatomic Pathology Technologist?

A good Anatomic Pathology Technologist is meticulous, as accuracy is critical when preparing tissue samples for examination.

They also need to be reliable and able to work independently, as they often work with minimal supervision.

Good problem-solving skills are also important, as they may need to troubleshoot issues with laboratory equipment or procedures.

 

Is it difficult to hire Anatomic Pathology Technologists?

Hiring Anatomic Pathology Technologists can be challenging due to the specific technical skills and education required for the role.

It’s important to offer competitive compensation and professional development opportunities to attract and retain qualified candidates.

Additionally, fostering a positive workplace environment that values teamwork and collaboration can also help attract and retain these professionals.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unmasked the essential role of an anatomic pathology technologist.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not only about analyzing tissues.

It’s about bringing precision and insight to healthcare, one test at a time.

With our handy anatomic pathology technologist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every tissue sample is a chapter in a patient’s story.

Let’s write those stories. Together.

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