Histotechnologist

Perform and analyze clinical laboratory procedures and tests within scope of licensure associated with the preparation of specimens for the anatomical study of their microscopic structure in support of the hospital's mission of patient care.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS :

EDUCATION, CERTIFICATION, AND/OR LICENSURE:

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Histotechnology or related field.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS :

EDUCATION, CERTIFICATION, AND/OR LICENSURE:

1. Histotechnologist Certification (HTL) with the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP).

2. Qualification in Immunohistochemistry (QIHC) Certification through (ASCP).

EXPERIENCE:

1. One (1) year of laboratory experience in histopathology

CORE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The statements described here are intended to describe the general nature of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not intended to be constructed as an all-inclusive list of all responsibilities and duties. Other duties may be assigned.

1. Perform assigned laboratory procedures (e.g., but not limited to, specimen accessioning and processing, inventory, ordering, embedding, tissue cutting and staining, frozen section production, special stains for cellular structures, immunohistochemistry).

2. Prepare tissue and produce microscopic slides using a wide variety of tissue techniques (i.e., fixation, embedding, sectioning and standard staining) to produce accurate reproducible results to meet the needs of patients as requested by the physicians.

3. Operate basic and advanced laboratory equipment/instruments (e.g., cryostats, tissue processors, microtomes, knife sharpeners, slide stainers, embedding centers, distillation system, pH meters, special stain units, IHC instrumentation) consistent with manufacturers’ instruction manuals, and with laboratory SOP. Perform quality assurance, quality control, and required equipment maintenance and troubleshooting procedures, calibration and quality control on instruments.

4. Record all work, (e.g., blocks cut, special stains, slides, immunoperoxidase slides, frozen section slides, immunofluorescent slides, re-cut slides, autopsy and surgical slides, decals, conference, teaching and research),

5. Maintain effective communication with laboratory sections, other hospital departments and public, as necessary to assure dissemination of information and the identification/resolution of problems.

6. Participate in the educational endeavors of the institution to meet the current and future needs of the department. Participate as required, in the education of medical students, residents, PA students, School of Medicine students, MLS and Histotechnology students and technicians.

7. Recognize errors, medical and technical problems and utilize expertise to perform minor and major troubleshooting and appropriate and timely problem resolution. Provide input for development of quality assurance and quality control procedures.

8. Participate in planning and implementing change and maintaining and improving productivity through attendance and participation in tech meetings, projects, and discussions with supervisor.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. Able to stand and/or sit for long periods of time.

2. Visual acuity must not be impaired. Color differentiation is required.

3. Manual dexterity for instrument operation including microscope.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. Noisy environment.

2. Foul or unpleasant odors.

3. Perform procedures and operate instrumentation while wearing protective apparel.

4. May be exposed to virus, disease, and infection from patients and specimens.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

1. Able to use a computer keyboard, monitor and mouse

2. Able to communicate verbally, written and electronically with healthcare personnel, families and patients.

3. Able to use numerous types of laboratory equipment.

4. Able to follow complex procedures with minimal guidance.

Additional Job Description:

The successful applicant will join Ruby’s Histology laboratory located within the Health Science Center, working alongside other Histotechnologists under the supervision of the Histology Supervisor and the Anatomic Pathology Manager. This role involves rotating duties and responsibilities within the lab and requires flexibility to work one of two shifts, Monday through Friday: either 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM or 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM. The candidate must adhere to departmental policies and standard operating procedures, possess a general knowledge of Histology practices, and demonstrate strong troubleshooting skills, multitasking ability, and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.