Histotechnician

General Summary

Processes specimens for analysis and performs specified laboratory procedures under the supervision of the Anatomic Laboratory Manager and Anatomic Laboratory Assistant Manager. Performs all histology procedures including quality control and instrument maintenance.

Principal Job Functions

• Completes cases for pathologists in a timely fashion, following stated guidelines and methodologies.
• Stains slides of specimens to enhance visibility under microscope.
• Accurately embeds surgical specimens in a timely effective manner with high quality.
• Sections surgical paraffin block tissue utilizing a microtome in a timely effective manner with high quality.
• Operates, rotates and cleans laboratory equipment (i.e., microtomes, tissue processors, recyclers, H&E stainers, immunohistochemistry stainers, etc.).
• Performs stains and quality control on special stains and immunohistochemistry stains.
• Examines slides under a microscope to ensure tissue preparation meets laboratory requirements.
• Studies slides under a microscope to detect deviations of technical and stain quality and report abnormalities for further study to the supervisor or a pathologist.

Maintained Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Maintains clinical competency as required for the unit including but not limited to age-specific competencies relative to patient’s growth and developmental needs, annual skill competency verification and mandatory education and competencies.
• Knowledge of computer hardware equipment and software applications relevant to work functions.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to perform crucial conversations with desired outcomes.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of personnel and medical staff.
• Ability to problem solve and engage independent critical thinking skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality relevant to sensitive information.
• Ability to prioritize work demands and work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to maintain regular and punctual attendance.

Required Education And Experience

• Education and training must meet or exceed the CLIA standards for High Complexity Testing equivalent to 60 semester hours from an accredited institution that, at a minimum, include either 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses or 24 semester hours of science courses that include: Six (6) semester hours of chemistry Six (6) semester hours of biology Twelve (12) additional semester hours of chemistry, biology or medical laboratory technology courses in any combination.
• Bachelor degree in Life Sciences preferred, or successful completion of a formally recognized histology technique training program.
• Member in good standing with the American Society of Clinical Pathology required.
• Previous work experience in a histology laboratory preferred.