Histopathology Technologist

Histopathology Technologist

The Histopathology Technologist, incumbent performs complex laboratory functions. The incumbent may assist in reference testing (send out) of histology tissue/blocks/slides and/or receipt of outside cases for consultation. At the full performance level, the histopathology technologist independently performs a full range of routine and specialized tests. Utilize information technology systems to apply histopathology techniques and broad scientific principles from the fields of biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology. The histopathology technologist acts as a technical resource, troubleshooting a variety of specialized lab tests, identifying suboptimal issues, and uses independent judgment and resources to resolve concerns. The histopathology technologist ensures goals are met by prioritizing work, as necessary, in times of short staffing, or heavy workload, and by performing simultaneous tasks. The histopathology technologist uses professional skills in applying anatomic pathology principles, practices, concepts, and theories to perform new or difficult specialized testing methods, such as immunohistochemical, histochemical, and frozen section techniques. The Histopathology Technologist at the full performance level carries out the day-to-day operations in the laboratory with minimum guidance. This includes routine testing, quality control, routine maintenance of instrumentation, and troubleshooting that applies innovative procedures and problem solving.

The duties and responsibilities of a Histopathology Technologist include but are not limited to the following:

• Maintains knowledge of and complies with federal regulations associated with the Clinical Lab Improvement Act of 1988.
• Evaluates and solves problems related to collection and processing of biological specimens for diagnostic evaluation considering physiologic processes and requirements
• Performs and documents quality control, quality assurance activities and corrective actions related to test performance using statistical principles and theories of performance improvement, as applicable.
• Adheres to practices and regulations governing safety in the laboratory
• Identifies discrepancies, solves problems, and presents solutions.
• Evaluates and implements new techniques and procedures in the laboratory in terms of equipment and method comparison using theoretical knowledge. Interprets findings and makes recommendations.
• Incorporates principles of educational methodology in the instruction and training of new employees and students and in the laboratory's in-service/continuing education program.
• Performs immunohistochemical staining (IHC) procedures using specialized instrumentation.
• Assists the pathologist or pathologist's assistant with surgical-gross description and processing.
• Prepares technically adequate slides of surgical, cytology, and autopsy specimens by processing, embedding tissue, cutting, staining and cover slipping
• Histopathology Technologists who are trained as primary operators will assume all the responsibilities and primary operator duties assigned by the supervisor.
• Perform, document and complete all competency assessments, mandatory education and training.
• Assists in autopsy procedures and the maintenance of the autopsy suite, as needed.
• Adheres to approved Orlando VA Medical Center, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine policies/procedures and federal/state regulations governing biosafety and biosecurity in the workplace.
• Adheres to all VHA, facility, local, state, and federal safety requirements.
• Must be able to manage the approved laboratory information system with minimum guidance.
• Communicates effectively and courteously while working as a healthcare team member.
• Other duties as assigned.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday - 8:00am-4:30pm and extended hours based on facility needs

Telework: Not Authorized

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: GS-7-FS-82332F, GS-9-FS-8048F