Histotechnologist 1

Histotechnologist

The Histotechnologist (H) performs a wide variety of routine and complex procedures to prepare and analyze tissues in support of clinical trials research. The Histotechnologist (H) performs routine and complex analysis of patient specimens according to standard operating procedures.

Core Job Functions

• Prepares and cuts histological sections of good quality for morphological and immunohistochemical analyses.
• Evaluates specimen acceptability upon receipt and during the review of analysis results.
• Performs secondary review of patient results to ensure accuracy of primary result entry.
• Assists with gross examination and maintains an accurate log of specimens.
• Answers questions and resolves problems pertaining to test requisitions.
• Performs a variety of specialized chemical and immunohistochemical stains using appropriate controls.
• Maintains records of prepared specimens by labeling stained and finished slides.
• Examines sample and stained slides with microscope to ascertain results.
• Prepares solution and reagents in accordance with standard procedures.
• Maintains laboratory equipment and ensures tissue preparation meets laboratory requirements.
• Adheres to University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguards University assets.

This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities as necessary.

Core Qualifications

Education:

Associate's degree in relevant field

Certification and Licensing:

Certification in relevant specialty or field

Experience:

Minimum 1 year of relevant experience

Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes:

• Skill in collecting, organizing and analyzing data.
• Ability to recognize, analyze, and solve a variety of problems.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in making critical decisions.

Department Specific Functions

A. Specimen Receiving:

Verify that patient name on the container matches the name on the history sheet under supervision. Assign surgical numbers as directed by a senior technologist. Place specimens into properly labeled cassettes, confirming information before processing.

B. Specimen Processing:

Assist in changing tissue processor solutions following written procedures. Observe and document processing schedules. Monitor paraffin levels and temperatures; report discrepancies to senior staff.

C. Embedding Procedure:

Embed tissues with attention to orientation under supervision. Organize blocks numerically and ensure completeness.

D. Sectioning Procedure:

Cut routine sections at designated micron thickness under guidance. Identify basic artifacts such as folds or tears and correct with supervision. Maintain water bath and ensure proper temperature.

E. Frozen Section Procedure:

Assist with labeling and tracking frozen specimens. Learn proper orientation and cutting techniques for frozen tissue. Ensure patient identifiers match documentation.

F. Quality Verification:

Review slides for completeness before submitting to senior technologist. Learn to identify acceptable quality standards.

G. Special Stain Procedures:

Observe and assist in performing manual and automated special stains. Learn to evaluate control slides under supervision.

H. Compliance:

Follow all written procedures as stated in the Anatomic Pathology Procedure Manual. Report deviations or concerns to supervisory staff.

Department Specific Qualifications

Education:

Associate's degree in relevant field

Certification and Licensing:

Florida State License as a Histotechnologist

The University of Miami offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, tuition remission and more.