Pathology Operations Specialist I

At Caris, we understand that cancer is an ugly word—a word no one wants to hear, but one that connects us all. That’s why we’re not just transforming cancer care—we’re changing lives.

We introduced precision medicine to the world and built an industry around the idea that every patient deserves answers as unique as their DNA. Backed by cutting-edge molecular science and AI, we ask ourselves every day: “What would I do if this patient were my mom?” That question drives everything we do.

But our mission doesn’t stop with cancer. We’re pushing the frontiers of medicine and leading a revolution in healthcare—driven by innovation, compassion, and purpose.

Join us in our mission to improve the human condition across multiple diseases. If you’re passionate about meaningful work and want to be part of something bigger than yourself, Caris is where your impact begins.

Position Summary

The Pathology Operations Specialist I is responsible for supporting and assisting the Pathology and Pathologist Assistant department in their daily operations. The Pathology Operations Specialist I will perform tasks needed to be completed in the day-to-day operation. These tasks include the ability to prioritize, assign and distribute cases to the Pathologists. The position will be the point of contact between the Pathology and Pathologist Assistant Department and the other departments.

Job Responsibilities

• Work closely with other department to ensure cases are prioritized through the Pathology workflow.
• Assign and distribute cases to the Pathologists.
• Serve as a point of contact for the Pathology and Pathologist Assistant department with the other Lab personnel.
• Has a good understanding and working knowledge of Laboratory Information Systems. Log appropriate information into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and other logs as necessary.
• Pull cases or slides required by the Pathology and Pathologist Assistant department.
• Distribute material for Pathology Quality Assurance and record results.
• Assist as needed to perform other related duties and special projects to support the Pathology and Pathologist Assistant department as required.
• Maintains a clean workstation.
• Demonstrates the ability to accurately prioritize and triage specimens, handles and disposes of specimens and chemical waste based on the laboratory’s procedural manual and ensures compliance with regulatory agencies.
• Maintains confidentiality of sensitive information concerning patients, physicians, employees, clients, vendors and the company.
• Performs Quality Control and Quality Assurance tests as required. Maintains all necessary documentation and logs.
• Reports all concerns of test quality and/or patient or employee safety to a Supervisor or Safety Officer.
• Maintains laboratory procedures. Ensures compliance to applicable policies and procedures by laboratory personnel. Recommends changes as needed.
• Performs and documents the operation, troubleshooting and preventive maintenance of microdissection equipment.
• Communicates, and keeps Supervisor and/or other management team abreast of laboratory problems and non-conformities.
• Fosters a unified culture and promote a positive work environment by collaboration, cooperation, sharing of information and mutual teamwork.
• Accept other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Years of experience required: 1 – 2 years experience in general laboratory operations
• A high degree of care and attention with strict adherence to defined clinical testing protocols.

Preferred Qualifications

• Relevant qualifications in the technical aspects of pathology.
• Ability to work under routine and stressful situations in an accurate and timely manner.
• Experience in working with a team of microdissection technicians within a CLIA certified environment (preferred).
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures for biohazards and chemicals, as well as quality control procedures and regulations.
• Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word, Excel, Outlook and general working knowledge of Internet for business use.
• Ability to communicate effectively.

Physical Demands

• Will work at a computer some of the time as well as need to keep inventory and ordering records requiring the use of copiers, fax machines, and PDF scanners.
• Visual acuity and analytical skill to distinguish fine detail. Ability to pass a visual color discrimination test.
• Manual dexterity to use common laboratory equipment and perform sterile techniques as required.
• Must possess ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.
• Must possess ability to perform repetitive motion.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• May have exposure to high noise levels in the data center, fumes and bio-hazardous material in the lab environment. Exposure to formaldehyde, xylene, DAB and alcohol which emit fumes. The formaldehyde, xylene, and DAB are carcinogenic.
• May be required to handle blood-borne pathogens and general laboratory reagents.
• Must possess ability to use a microscope for extended periods of time.
• May have exposure to extreme temperatures, high noise levels, fumes and bio-hazardous material/chemicals including formalin in the lab environment.

Training

• All job specific, safety, and compliance training are assigned based on the job functions associated with this employee.

Other

• This position requires periodic travel and some evenings, weekends and/or holidays.

Conditions of Employment: Individual must successfully complete pre-employment process, which includes criminal background check, drug screening, credit check ( applicable for certain positions ) and reference verification.

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Caris Life Sciences is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.