Histotechnician/Histotechnologist

About the role

This job receives and accesses surgical, biopsy and autopsy specimens for routine tissue processing and subsequent microscopic examination. It involves embedding tissues in paraffin, cutting, staining, labeling slides, performing special procedures such as special stains, plastic procedures, Immunoperoxidase, undecalcified bone processing, photography of gross specimens, and high complexity testing such as Immunohistochemistry. Additionally, it includes developing new procedures, evaluating reagents and equipment, coordinating internal validations, teaching and advising staff, and serving as a consultant tech.

Responsibilities

• Properly orients tissue in paraffin embedding medium ensuring all surfaces such as epidermis, dermis, mucosal, lumen and inked margins, are embedded and sectioned on the same plane.
• Prepares tissue or slides for Special Procedures such as send outs, EM, IF, Cell Flow, Cytogenetic, including packaging arranging transportation, documentation and billing.
• Maintains an adequate cut supply of Positive (+) control slides. Documenting on Control Tissue QC log, the case number and QC date.
• Affords assistance in managing workload and productivity by adjusting schedule when necessary.
• Completes Pathologist’s, Supervisor’s and management team’s requests within 24 hours, notifying them of any delay.
• Cleans and maintains reagents tissue processors, embedding center, microtomy equipment, H&E stainer, immunostainers in excellent condition, keeping all work areas clean and documenting QC as required. Accommodates special needs of the section organization by volunteering to do any work/task when needed technical or nontechnical areas due to inclement weather, electrical power outages, computer downtime or other critical times.
• Follows safety guidelines as outlined for Department/Institution and documents instances appropriately.
• Adapts behavior to the specific patient population, including but not limited to: respect for privacy, method of introduction to the patient, adapting explanation of services or procedures to be performed, requesting permissions and communication style.
• Other related duties as required.

Requirements

Education: Required - Bachelor's Degree in Histotechnology, Biology, Chemistry, Physical, Medical Technology or Clinical Laboratory Science
Work Experience: Required - None
Certifications: Required - Histotechnologist (HTL) (ASCP) registration
Required - Current Louisiana license as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist - Specialist or Generalist

Skills

Must have computer skills and dexterity required for data entry and retrieval of patient information. Must be proficient with Windows-style applications and keyboard.
Effective verbal and written communication skills and the ability to present information clearly and professionally to varying levels of individuals throughout the patient care process.
Strong interpersonal skills

Benefits

N/A

Pay

N/A

Schedule

N/A