About Company
Shakawe Primary Hospital is a cornerstone of healthcare in the Ngamiland District of Botswana, proudly serving the communities of Shakawe and its surrounding areas. As a vital public sector institution, we are deeply committed to providing accessible, high-quality medical services that encompass a wide spectrum of care, from essential primary health provisions to crucial specialized diagnostics. Our mission is centered on upholding the highest standards of patient safety, delivering compassionate care, and continuously striving to enhance the health and overall well-being of the local population. The diagnostic department at Shakawe Primary Hospital is the crucial engine behind accurate medical assessments, empowering our clinicians with precise information to make informed decisions that profoundly impact patient treatment and outcomes. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative, supportive, and dynamic environment where professional growth is not just encouraged but actively supported, ensuring every team member can contribute significantly to our overarching goal of delivering unparalleled healthcare excellence.
Job Description
Are you a meticulous and dedicated professional with a profound passion for precision in diagnostics? Shakawe Primary Hospital invites applications for a crucial Pathology Assistant role within our dynamic and essential Diagnostic Department. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a committed, frontline team directly involved in patient care, situated in the vibrant heart of the Ngamiland District. As a Pathology Assistant, you will assume an indispensable role in the accurate and timely processing of biological specimens, thereby directly contributing to the critical processes of disease diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and ultimately, improving patient well-being. Your expertise and careful attention will be absolutely vital in ensuring the integrity, quality, and proper handling of all samples, right from their initial receipt and meticulous labelling through to their careful preparation for microscopic examination or further sophisticated analytical testing.
This full-time position demands a keen eye for the minutest details, an unwavering commitment to strict adherence to established laboratory protocols, and a robust understanding of comprehensive safety regulations. You will operate as a critical link in the diagnostic chain, working closely and collaboratively with experienced Pathologists, skilled Medical Technologists, and a diverse range of other dedicated healthcare professionals. Beyond the crucial technical tasks, this role requires exceptional organizational skills to efficiently manage the intricate specimen workflow, maintain comprehensive and accurate records, and actively contribute to cultivating a clean, efficient, and consistently well-stocked laboratory environment. We are actively seeking an individual who thrives in a fast-paced, high-stakes setting, demonstrates proactive initiative, and possesses an eagerness to continuously learn and develop their skills within the supportive framework of a public healthcare system. Join us at Shakawe Primary Hospital and make a tangible, life-changing difference in the communities we proudly serve by ensuring diagnostic excellence and wholeheartedly supporting our enduring mission for a healthier Botswana.
Key Responsibilities
- Receive, verify, and log biological specimens with meticulous attention to detail and accuracy.
- Prepare specimens for various tests including grossing, embedding, sectioning, and staining according to established protocols.
- Perform routine laboratory procedures and basic diagnostic tests under the supervision of medical technologists or pathologists.
- Operate, clean, and maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring proper functionality and calibration.
- Maintain accurate patient records, logbooks, and databases, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality.
- Adhere strictly to all safety guidelines, infection control protocols, and quality assurance standards.
- Assist in maintaining laboratory inventory, ordering supplies, and ensuring a well-organized workspace.
- Dispose of hazardous waste in accordance with hospital and regulatory guidelines.
- Collaborate effectively with pathologists, medical technologists, and other healthcare professionals.
- Participate in ongoing training and professional development activities.
Required Skills
- Diploma or Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology, Pathology Assistance, or a related field.
- Proven experience in a clinical laboratory or pathology setting (internship experience considered).
- Strong understanding of laboratory safety procedures and infection control.
- Excellent manual dexterity and precision for handling delicate specimens and equipment.
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in all tasks.
- Proficiency in basic computer applications for data entry and record-keeping.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences or a related biological science.
- Certification as a Pathology Assistant or Medical Laboratory Technician.
- Experience with specific laboratory information systems (LIS).
- Familiarity with quality management systems in a healthcare environment.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and government-mandated benefits.
- Comprehensive medical aid and pension schemes.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development and training.
- A supportive and collaborative work environment.
- The chance to make a significant impact on community health.
- Work-life balance initiatives typical of the public sector.
How to Apply
We encourage all qualified and interested candidates to apply. Please click on the application link below to submit your application directly. Ensure all required documentation is attached.