Explore opportunities with Atrius Health, part of the Optum family of businesses. We're an innovative health care leader and multi-specialty group practice, delivering an effective, connected system of care for adult and pediatric patients at 28 practice locations in eastern Massachusetts. Our entire team of providers (physicians, PA/NPs and ancillary clinicians) works collaboratively with a value-based philosophy within our group practice as well as with hospitals, rehab and nursing facilities. Be part of our vision to transform care and improve lives by building trust, understanding and shared decision-making with every patient. Join us and discover the meaning behind Caring. Connecting. Growing together.
Under the general supervision of a Pathologist, utilizes specialized training to perform complex clinical laboratory procedures that would otherwise be performed by a Pathologist. Responsible for grossing and dissecting a wide variety of surgical pathology specimens varying from biopsies to complex specimens. In collaboration with the pathologist, selects appropriate diagnostic sections for histologic processing.
Position Details:
- Location: 152 2nd Avenue, Needham Heights, MA 02494
- Department: Laboratory
- Schedule: Per-Diem, as needed. Monday - Friday between 2:00pm and 10:30pm
Primary Responsibilities:
- Conducts gross examination of human tissue surgical specimens. Performs appropriate specimen accessioning, describes gross anatomic features via dictation, and dissects surgical specimens
- In collaboration with the pathologist, selects appropriate diagnostic sections for histologic processing. Prepares this tissue utilizing proper histologic procedures
- When necessary, reviews cases with a pathologist upon sign-out. Consults with co-workers and histology staff as needed
- Participates in quality assurance initiatives. Contributes new ideas to the improvement of laboratory operations and the attainment of other business objectives. Participates in projects as assigned
- Maintains detailed records of all specimen dissections and dictations
- Assists in the compilation of reports for surgical pathology
- Labels and stores gross tissue specimens
- Properly maintains equipment and ensures the cleanliness of the surgical pathology suite
- Refers to training checklists and competency assessments for additional accountabilities. During periods of downtime, may be called upon to provide assistance to the specimen processing area
- Adheres to all laboratory policies and procedures, including compliance, HIPAA, CQI, OSHA, and accreditation guidelines. Reviews policy and procedure manuals on an annual basis
- Performs all job functions in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local agencies, company policies and procedures, and CAP
- Performs other duties as needed
You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.
Required Qualifications:
- Graduate of a NAACLS approved educational training program or a bachelor's degree with a concentration in a biological or allied health discipline
- 3+ years of experience as a Pathologist's Assistant under direct supervision of a pathologist
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's degree in pathology
- Knowledge of histologic procedures
- Extensive knowledge of the basic sciences, especially anatomy, and knowledge of surgical pathology and medical terminology
- Proficient in the use of medical and surgical instruments and equipment
- Proven excellent dissection technical skills
- Proven ability to summarize complex clinical data
- Proven ability to work independently
- Demonstrated ability to utilize a professional attitude to gain and maintain the trust of associates
- Demonstrated ability to serve as a role model in areas such as flexibility, objectivity, and adaptability
- Demonstrated use of solid professional judgement
Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The hourly pay for this role will range from $44.09 to $78.70 per hour based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.
At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.
UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.
UnitedHealth Group is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.
Skills Required
- Graduate of a NAACLS approved educational training program or a bachelor's degree with a concentration in a biological or allied health discipline
- 3+ years of experience as a Pathologist's Assistant under direct supervision of a pathologist
- Must pass a drug test prior to beginning employment
- Ability to work per-diem, Monday-Friday between 2:00pm and 10:30pm on-site in Needham Heights, MA
- Master's degree in pathology
- Knowledge of histologic procedures
- Extensive knowledge of basic sciences, especially anatomy, surgical pathology, and medical terminology
- Proficiency with medical and surgical instruments and equipment
- Proven excellent dissection technical skills
- Ability to summarize complex clinical data and work independently
- Demonstrated professional attitude, flexibility, objectivity, adaptability, and sound judgment
Optum Compensation & Benefits Highlights
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — PTO accrues each pay period with eight paid U.S. holidays plus a floating holiday, and generous time away is consistently emphasized. This breadth supports planned and unplanned time off beyond standard vacation days.
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Parental & Family Support — Six weeks of paid parental leave, up to two weeks of paid caregiver leave, Bright Horizons back‑up care, and adoption assistance signal strong family-oriented support. EAP access with counseling sessions further extends help to employees and their households.
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Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Company‑paid short‑ and long‑term disability, Calm app membership, tuition reimbursement, commuter and FSA accounts, and broad employee discounts expand everyday wellbeing resources. Free or low‑cost virtual visits complement these lifestyle supports.
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What We Do
Optum, part of the UnitedHealth Group family of businesses, is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities. Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health optimization on a global scale. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together. At Optum, we support your well-being with an understanding team, extensive benefits and rewarding opportunities. By joining us, you’ll have the resources to drive system transformation while we help you take care of your future. We recognize the power of connection to drive change, improve efficiency and make a difference in health care. Join a team where your skills and ideas can make an impact and where collaboration is key to creating technology that produces healthier outcomes.
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