Immunohistochemistry Specialist, Pathology Laboratory

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Specialist

Work Location: Orange, California

Work Shift: Day 08hrs (United States of America)

Why RCH?

At RCH, we strive to be the leading destination of children's health by providing exceptional and innovative care. We are responsible for the overall health of our community's pediatric population in our hospitals, clinics, and practices. And because of our breadth of care, your career at RCH can be as diverse and fulfilling as you determine. RCH's compensation structure, benefits offerings, and career development programs are geared to helping you achieve your professional and personal goals. Apply now to see where your career at RCH can take you.

Environmental Sustainability Statement

Driven by the connection between children's health and a healthy environment, we commit to creating a healthcare model that incorporates environmental sustainability aligned with our mission to protect children's health and patient safety.

Job Summary

The Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Specialist performs immunohistochemistry tissue staining and is responsible for the evaluation, validation, implementation, and maintenance of IHC instrumentation, antibodies, and related testing procedures. Establishes, monitors, and reviews quality control and quality assurance parameters in compliance with CAP, CLIA, Joint Commission, and other applicable regulatory and accrediting requirements. Maintains current knowledge of individual antibodies, their diagnostic applications, staining characteristics, and the appropriate use of control tissues. Oversees the maintenance and organization of adequate tissue bank supplies for IHC control material and ensures proper inventory management of reagents and laboratory supplies related to IHC operations. Identifies, troubleshoots, and resolves erroneous IHC staining reactions, technical issues, and instrument malfunction, escalating concerns appropriately when necessary. Participates in the development, review, revision, updating, and writing of departmental standard operating procedures (SOPs), policies, competency assessments, and CAP regulatory documentation to ensure ongoing compliance and best laboratory practices. Serves as a technical resource for pathologists, laboratory staff, and leadership regarding IHC-related procedures, troubleshooting, validations, quality concerns, and workflow improvements. Assists with training and competency assessment of staff performing IHC procedures and related histology functions. Performs routine preparation of surgical, cytological, and autopsy sections for microscopic examination by the Pathologist, including microtomy, special stains, control preparation, and coverslipping as assigned. Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work environment to support efficient workflow, specimen integrity, patient safety, and compliance with all institutional and regulatory standards. Performs additional duties as assigned to support the operational needs of the Histology and Pathology Department.

Pay Range: Minimum $37.61 Midpoint $49.84 Maximum $62.06

Rate of pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to knowledge, skills, competencies, experience, education, as well as position requirements.

Experience

* Required: Minimum three (3) years of experience as a HTL with experience in immunohistochemistry (IHC) implementation and troubleshooting IHC instruments and making antibodies used to process IHC stains as well as processing, embedding and sectioning of formalin fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) specimen.

* Preferred: Five (5) or more years of experience as a HTL with experience in immunohistochemistry implementation and troubleshooting as well as processing, embedding and sectioning of FFPE specimens.

Education

* Required: Completion of four (4) years college with a degree in biology, chemistry, or science equivalent.

Training

* Required: None required.

Specialized Skills

* Required: Ability to set goals and judge results in accordance with the highest standards and respect; advance care through development of new ideas and technology; promote teamwork to achieve Rady's Children Hospital of Orange County mission; and understand and exceed customer expectations and effectively solve complex patient care and organizational problems. Strong verbal and written communication skills; interpersonal relationship and collaboration skills.

Licensure

* Required: ASCP Certified Histotechnologist.AND Qualification in Immunohistochemistry (QIHC) ASCP certification which must be obtained within 1 year of hire.

Preferred:

Work Environments - Functional Demand:

Medium - High energy level Lift and carry 40-50 lbs. Push/pull +/- 150-200 lbs. (Patients on bed, stretcher) Lateral transfer 150-200 lbs. (ie. Patient).

Physical Activity Requirements:

Bending, Carry Objects, Climbing, Keyboard use/repetitive motion, Pinching/fine motor activities, Push/Pull, Reaching forward, Reaching overhead, Sitting, Squat/kneel/crawl (Squad & Knee), Standing, Talk or hear, Taste or smell, Twisting, Walking, Wrist position deviation

Physical Activity Lifting

Sensory Requirements:

Environment Requirements:

Non-Discrimination Statement:

RCH does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, genetic information, disability, sex, gender (including pregnancy, breastfeeding, childbirth, lactation or related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, medical condition, sexual orientation, veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or other protected characteristics in accordance with state and federal laws. RCH will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories, in accordance with the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring.

We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply for positions at RCH, even if your experience doesn't align perfectly with the listed qualifications for a particular role, as your unique experience may be a great addition to our culture for another one of our opportunities.

If you desire support or accommodations throughout the Talent Acquisition process, please inform your Talent Acquisition Partner.