Histotechnologist

Job Title: Histotechnologist - Immunohistochemistry, Full-time, Evenings

Schedule: Monday through Friday, 3:00pm-11:30pm, 40 hours per week

Key Responsibilities

• Performs routine histology procedures, resulting in stained slides for microscopic review and diagnosis by the pathologist.
• Communicates with pathologists, residents, and coordinators regarding specimen problems.
• Participates in the laboratory occurrence management program.
• Performs cassette-log reconciliation.
• Initiates appropriate programs on conventional and microwave tissue processors.
• Recognizes, resolves, and documents standard processor alarms.
• Embeds biopsy, routine surgical, and autopsy tissues, if applicable, per SOP.
• Recognizes adequacy of processing.
• Identifies and orients tissues correctly.
• Documents tracking and quality issues on embedding log.
• Performs and documents routine paraffin block reconciliation.
• Prioritizes blocks based on established guidelines.
• Operates microtome per SOP, and determines appropriate block orientation and alignment, knife angles, and settings to obtain representative sections.
• Recognizes acceptable vs. unacceptable sections; evaluates instances in which specific tissue might require a deviation from standard procedures to ensure diagnostic sections are produced.
• Maintains appropriate documentation, including specimen identification, throughout all technical and clerical processes.
• Operates automated instrumentation to stain and coverslip microscopic slides.
• Performs manual methods during instrument downtimes.
• Recognizes, resolves, and documents unacceptable staining, coverslipping results and/or instrument failure.
• Performs special staining techniques using automated instrumentation and manual methods.
• Identifies appropriate positive and/or negative controls.
• Evaluates stains microscopically for acceptable results.
• Executes sectioning and staining of frozen tissue.
• Identifies and corrects staining deficiencies.
• Documents stains and quality issues.
• Performs and/or assists with gross examination, dissection, and selection of representative tissue for microscopic examination for designated specimen, if applicable by site.
• Resolves discrepancies prior to gross examination and escalates to supervisor or Pathologist when necessary.
• Utilizes dictation equipment to document description per procedure, if applicable.
• Investigates, escalates, and documents any discrepancies or unresolved issues appropriately.
• Prioritizes technical workload based on assignment or established priorities, responds effectively to changes in workflow adjusting work to incorporate STAT requests or fluctuations in work volume.
• Exercises independent judgment in the performance of technical responsibilities.
• Practices the proficient and safe use of all equipment necessary for the completion of all duties and responsibilities within defined turn-around times.
• Performs required Quality System responsibilities, including initiating “Quality Investigation Reports”.
• Reports equipment or instrument malfunctions appropriately.
• Maintains a clean and safe work environment to ensure efficient workflow and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Cleans and disinfects laboratory areas per SOP.
• Performs minor spill cleanup per SOP when necessary.
• Monitors laboratory inventory to ensure supply levels are appropriate and adequate.
• Notifies coordinator promptly of any supply issues.
• Participates in Safety and Infection Control activities.
• Follows all required safety procedures, assumes a proactive role in laboratory safety.
• Takes initiative for personal development by attending teleconferences, educational sessions, and required meetings, etc.
• Participates in the training and teaching of students and new staff members.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Assists in specific process improvement projects.
• Will assist with problem resolution regarding patient specimens including root cause analysis.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Automated instrumentation for staining and coverslipping.
• Microwave tissue processors.
• Conventional tissue processors.
• Microtome.
• Dictation equipment.
• Laboratory information system.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in the biological, physical, chemical, life sciences, medical laboratory technology, or histology.
• HTL (ASCP) certification or HTL (ASCP) eligible.
• If eligible, must take and pass the national certifying exam within one year of employment.
• Prior work experience in a CAP accredited histology laboratory (preferred).