Histology Technician I
Location: Altru Hospital, 1200 South Columbia Road, Grand Forks, ND 58201
Pay Range: $27.80 – $41.71
Summary
The Histology Technician prepares sections of human tissue from surgical procedures using techniques to process, embed, cut, stain, and mount the tissue onto glass slides for microscopic examination and patient diagnosis by a Pathologist. The technician utilizes technology to operate computerized laboratory equipment and to effectively perform data entry, retrieval, and complete documentation. This position assures accurate specimen labeling, retrieves, opens and sorts specimens and performs send‑out procedures for consults and further patient testing. The Histology Technician prepares and maintains special stains, performs immunohistochemistry and other special stains as requested, and disposes of chemicals and patient specimens per regulatory guidelines.
Essential Job Functions
- Utilizes technology effectively to perform accurate data entry/retrieval, documentation, and communication.
- Receives specimen and verifies accurate specimen and requisition labeling.
- Manages patient and specimen encounters, order entry, accessioning, etc.
- Files and retrieves patient information, blocks, slides, and/or reports problems.
- Recognizes procedural or technical problems, troubleshoots and exercises initiative and independent judgment in taking corrective action, documents problem and all corrective action taken and notifies supervisor and/or Manager/Pathologist as appropriate of problems in a timely manner.
- Prepares pathology slides by accurately and proficiently embedding tissue sections, cutting paraffin blocks, staining and coverslipping.
- Reviews stained slides microscopically for quality assurance.
- Performs immunohistochemistry stains, special stains, and prepares and maintains adequate reagents and stock solutions following standard operating procedures.
- Initiates, performs and documents quality assurance and maintenance processes.
- Acts as a reference for send‑outs and special test/specimen requirements, coordinates and processes send‑outs and special requests, and assists Pathologist with general and special procedures.
- Engages in courteous communication that supports business operations through verbal, written, and other appropriate means.
- Performs other duties as assigned or needed to meet the needs of the department/organization.
Certification
Histotechnician – American Society for Clinical Pathology – within 12 months of start date – HR Primary Sources #Altru
Education
Preferred: Associate’s degree – Science
Work Experience
Required: A minimum of 1 year related experience.
Language Requirements
Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English to ensure effective communication in the workplace and with patients, families, and team members.
Physical Demands
- Sit: Frequently (34‑66 %)
- Stand: Frequently (34‑66 %)
- Walk: Occasionally (5‑33 %)
- Stoop/Bend: Frequently (34‑66 %)
- Reach: Frequently (34‑66 %)
- Crawl: Not applicable
- Squat/Crouch/Kneel: Occasionally (5‑33 %)
- Twist: Occasionally (5‑33 %)
- Handle/Finger/Feel: Continuously (67‑100 %)
- See: Continuously (67‑100 %)
- Hear: Continuously (67‑100 %)
Weight Demands
- Lift – floor to waist level: Medium (20‑40 lb)
- Carry: Medium (20‑40 lb)
- Push/Pull: Light (10‑20 lb)
- Slide/Transfer: Not applicable
Working Conditions
- Indoor: Continuously (67‑100 %)
- Outdoor: Not applicable
- Extreme temperature: Not applicable
Driving Requirements
Infrequent driver
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package for full‑ and part‑time employees
- Health plan
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Dental plan
- Vision plan
- Life and disability insurance
- Education assistance
- Paid time off (PTO)