Histotechnologist

Overview

Employer Paid Benefits for You & Your Family!! Medical, Dental, & Vision.

Definition Of Position

The Histotechnologist is responsible to the Practice Manager and/or Dermatologist. Duties include the preparation and processing of tissue specimens for microscopic examination in dermatology clinic setting. This includes embedding, microtomy, staining, and quality control of tissue samples to support accurate and timely diagnosis. The Histotechnologist will maintain logs, records, and documentation in accordance with governing agencies, as well as clinic and laboratory protocols. They will ensure accuracy and quality in all histological procedures by applying in-depth knowledge of histotechnology techniques, laboratory instruments, and tissue handling principles. They will collaborate with Dermatologists and clinical staff to ensure proper specimen handling and optimal diagnosis outcomes. The Histotechnologist has the authority to assess specimen adequacy, request additional or repeat specimens if necessary, and troubleshoot technical issues in processing. May be required to perform special tasks including, but not limited to quality improvement initiatives, policy review and development, equipment validation, inventory management, participation in clinic committees, and other assigned duties.

Responsibilities

• Evidence of continuing education is appropriate for the skill level and specific areas of practice.
• Demonstrates the ability to perform in technical, clerical and interpersonal aspects of clinical lab services.
• Perform tissue processing including fixation, embedding, sectioning(microtomy), and staining.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment (e.g., microtomes, tissue, processors, staining systems).
• Ensure accurate labeling, documentation, and tracking of all specimens.
• Perform and document quality control procedures and maintain compliance with regulatory standards.
• Adhere to laboratory safety protocols, including proper handling of biohazardous materials and use of PPE.
• Able to communicate effectively with providers and staff.
• Must be able to identify, match, and distinguish colors for staining and specimen evaluation.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs maximum, frequently lift and/or carry objects weighing up to 25 lbs.

Qualifications

• Education: One Of The Following
  - Associate degree in laboratory science or medical laboratory technology
  - Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, health sciences, or related field
  - Equivalent clinical histology experience may substitute for education requirements
• Licenses/ certifications/ registrations: Required: HTL (ASCP) or equivalent certification
  - Preferred: NA
• Experience: To fulfill the experience requirement for the Histotechnologist, you must have experience within the last 5 years in ALL the following areas:
  - FIXATION
  - Tissue IdentificationParameters (e.g., pH, time, temperature)
  - ReagentsSelection, preparation, and use of fixatives for various applications
  - Troubleshooting/problem solving of fixation artifacts
  - PROCESSING
  - Selection, preparation, and use of decalcification reagents
  - Selection of appropriate processing methods (e.g., routine histology, immunohistochemistry, cytology)
  - Operation and maintenance of a tissue processor
  - EMBEDDING / MICROTOMY
  - Tissue identification and orientation for embedding
  - Operation and maintenance of an embedding center
  - Microtomy (e.g., paraffin, frozen)
  - Operation and maintenance of a microtome / water bath and cryostat
  - STAINING
  - Selection of appropriate control material
  - Ragent preparation
  - Operation and maintenance of staining equipment
  - Mounting and coverslipping procedures
  - Identification of tissue structures and their staining characteristics
  - Routine staining (i.e., H&E)
  - Special staining (e.g., carbohydrates and amyloid, connective tissue, microorganisms, pigments and minerals)
  - LABORATORY OPERATIONS
  - Operation, preventive maintenance, and corrective action for equipment
  - Troubleshooting
  - Quality control
  - Application of laboratory safety protocols
  - Preferred: NA

Physical Requirements

• Strong attention to detail
• Manual dexterity
• Organizational skills

Working Conditions

• This position is performed primarily in an indoor clinical laboratory within a dermatology clinic.
• The environment is generally controlled buy may include variable temperatures due to laboratory equipment.
• The role involves frequent exposure to biohazardous materials, chemicals (e.g. fixatives, stains), and laboratory equipment.
• Strict adherence to safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required.
• The health care environment can be fast-paced and unpredictable, requiring the ability to respond quickly to changing circumstances, including high-pressure or emergency situations.
• The work setting also involves multiple simultaneous demands and varying levels of noise due to medical equipment, staff activity, and patient needs.