Histotechnician: Precision Tissue Processing

Education Required - High school diploma or equivalent. Preferred - Completion of an Associate Degree or at least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of academic credit from a regionally accredited college/university with a combination of 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours) of Biology and Chemistry. Work Experience Preferred - 1 year of experience in Histopathology laboratory OR an ASCP Histotechnician (HT) Certification. Certifications Preferred - ASCP Histotechnician (HT) Certification. (The same certification may be accepted in lieu of work experience). Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs) Interpersonal skills to deal courteously and effectively with patients, physicians, nurses, and other personnel. Excellent judgmental skills to identify and solve problems, prioritize work, and handle difficult situations. Analytical skills to effectively perform calculations, operate computers, printers, and laboratory equipment, including microtomes, cryostats, automated slide strainers, and cover slippers. Ability to manage stress to maintain a professional atmosphere and provide quality, accurate results and service to clients. Experience working independently. Must have computer skills and dexterity required for data entry and retrieval of patient information. Proficient with Windows-style applications and keyboard. Effective verbal and written communication skills and the ability to present information clearly and professionally to varying levels of individuals. Job Duties Properly orient tissue in paraffin embedding medium ensuring all surfaces such as epidermis, dermis, mucosal, lumen and inked margins, are embedded and sectioned on the same plane. Prepare tissue or slides for Special Procedures such as send outs, EM, IF, Cell Flow, Cytogenetic, including packaging, arranging transportation, documentation and billing. Assist in managing workload and productivity by adjusting schedule when necessary. Maintain an adequate cut supply of Positive (+) control slides and document on Control Tissue QC log the case number and QC date for special stains. Complete Pathologist’s, Supervisor’s and management team’s requests within 24 hours, notifying them of any delay. Clean and maintain reagents, tissue processors, embedding center, microtomy equipment, H&E stainer in excellent condition, keeping all work areas clean and documenting QC as required. Accommodate special needs of the section organization by volunteering to do any work/task when needed in technical or non‑technical areas due to inclement weather, electrical power outages, computer downtime or other critical times. Follow safety guidelines as outlined for Department/Institution and document instances appropriately. Perform special procedures such as special stains and undecalcified bone processing. Other related duties as required. Physical and Environmental Demands Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Exposed to blood, body fluids and tissue. Potential occupational risk for communicable diseases and hazardous medications or waste within the environment through receipt, transport, storage, preparation, dispensing, administration, cleaning and/or disposal of contaminated waste. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Compliance and Conduct Remains knowledgeable on current federal, state and local laws, accreditation standards or regulatory agency requirements that apply to the assigned area of responsibility and ensures compliance with all such laws, regulations and standards. Employer maintains and complies with its Compliance & Privacy Program and Standards of Conduct, including immediate reporting of any known or suspected unethical or questionable behaviors or conduct; patient/employee safety, patient privacy, and other compliance‑related concerns. Equal Opportunity Statement Ochsner Health 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, protected veteran status, or disability status. #J-18808-Ljbffr Ochsner Health