Histotechnician 2

JOB SUMMARY

The Department of Pathology at UCSF aims to achieve the highest standards in patient care, research and education. The Department provides diagnostic pathology services in a wide variety of subspecialties with highly trained subspecialists who are recognized nationally and internationally for their expertise. The Department's research programs are diverse and interface with a wealth of basic and translational research programs that are a hallmark of UCSF. Our educational programs include a research-intensive academic residency program and fellowships in cytopathology, dermatopathology, gastrointestinal and liver pathology, gynecologic pathology, neuropathology and surgical pathology.

Under the general direction of laboratory management, the incumbent fulfills all laboratory and administrative duties in preparing tissue specimens for examination by a pathologist. Incumbent is required to fix, embed, cut skin tissue and apply a wide variety of immunohistochemical stains as well as other special stains ordered by the pathologist. Incumbent prepares solutions, maintains laboratory equipment and keeps detailed records of work processed. The incumbent must perform quality control procedures and evaluate results to resolve minor technical and equipment problems in the lab. Supports activities required for JCAHO accreditation by assisting in updating lab manuals and routine maintenance logs (as needed). Ensure that equipment is maintained and used properly. Assists in monitoring the antibody, reagent, and control material logs to be sure that they are accurate and current. Performs the full scope of technical duties in the laboratory as needed. Under guidance and regulations of the lab, aids other histotechnicians with fielding technical questions and performing daily tasks. Candidate may be asked to perform grossing technical duties as instructed and associated data entry including gross descriptions and accessioning.The Dermatopathology and Oral Pathology Service is a fast paced, high-volume laboratory and this position requires significant attention to detail across all areas of the lab.

DUTIES & ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

%

of time

Essential Function (Yes/No)

Key Responsibilities

65

Yes

Performs routine histology: embedding, microtomy and staining (both FFPE and Frozen tissue) with a high level of productivity in these areas. Performs a variety of staining techniques including immunoperoxidase histochemical (special) staining, in situ hybridization and direct immunofluorescence staining. Ensures accuracy in slide labeling, specimen identification and documentation. Recognizes and resolves routine staining problems. Applies sound judgment and decision-making during routine staining as well as developmental steps. Performs maintenance including changing hazardous solutions in equipment.

5

Yes

Uses sound judgement and determines if specimens are acceptable for diagnostic purposes. Verifies that all specimens are labeled correctly to allow for accurate and complete identification throughout all subsequent procedures. Stores and disposes specimens by following established precautions and protocols for disposal of hazardous waste. Disinfects work area.

5

Yes

Supports the activities required by TJC accreditation. Performs other duties as assigned.

10

Yes

Performing QA checks on slides for patient identification or stain quality. The incumbent must be able to perform quality control procedures, evaluate results and document accurately to resolve minor technical and equipment problems in the lab.

10

No

Perform basic laboratory tasks such as putting away supplies, maintaining and cleaning equipment, preparation of solutions and disposal of chemical waste.

5

Yes

Other duties as assigned.

100%

Required Qualifications:

• BS in Science or meets CLIA requirements for high complexity testing.
• Minimum 3-year experience in a high-volume histology laboratory.
• Knowledge of staining techniques and familiarity with reagents.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required.

Required Licenses and/or Certifications:

• ASCP Certified HT/HTL, active/current

Preferred Qualifications:

• ASCP QIHC Certified, active/current
• Experience with tissue grossing and processing.
• Ability to maintain a high level of productivity in grossing and accessioning

Problem Solving:

Common problems solved by the employee:

• Determine how best to embed tissue as it is made into a block.
• Resolve minor technical and equipment issues that may be affecting staining quality

Less frequent and more complex problems solved by the employee:

• Decide how to gross tissue based on clinical information on the requisition.
• Determine how to section bone or other hard tissues.

Problems/situations that are referred to this employee's supervisor:

• Determine how to gross larger tissue specimens to provide a representative sample for evaluation
• Identify mismatches between the gross description and the tissue in the cassette

About UCSF

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. We bring together the world's leading experts in nearly every area of health. We are home to five Nobel laureates who have advanced the understanding of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, aging and stem cells.

Pride Values

UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence - also known as our PRIDE values.

In addition to our PRIDE values, UCSF is committed to equity - both in how we deliver care as well as our workforce. We are committed to building a broadly diverse community, nurturing a culture that is welcoming and supportive, and engaging diverse ideas for the provision of culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. Additional information about UCSF is available here.

Join us to find a rewarding career contributing to improving healthcare worldwide.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

Salary Information

The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy.

Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including your work experience and internal equity within this position classification at UCSF. For positions that are represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the rules in the collective bargaining agreement.

To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit:

Required Qualifications:

• BS in Science or meets CLIA requirements for high complexity testing.
• Minimum 3-year experience in a high-volume histology laboratory.
• Knowledge of staining techniques and familiarity with reagents.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required.

Required Licenses and/or Certifications:

• ASCP Certified HT/HTL, active/current

Preferred Qualifications:

• ASCP QIHC Certified, active/current
• Experience with tissue grossing and processing.
• Ability to maintain a high level of productivity in grossing and accessioning

Problem Solving:

Common problems solved by the employee:

• Determine how best to embed tissue as it is made into a block.
• Resolve minor technical and equipment issues that may be affecting staining quality

Less frequent and more complex problems solved by the employee:

• Decide how to gross tissue based on clinical information on the requisition.
• Determine how to section bone or other hard tissues.

Problems/situations that are referred to this employee's supervisor:

• Determine how to gross larger tissue specimens to provide a representative sample for evaluation
• Identify mismatches between the gross description and the tissue in the cassette