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Job Description
Job Summary:
Under direct supervision, provides technical support services for patholgists and histology technicians. Assists in the preparation and processing of tissue specimens for microscopric examination by pathologists. Performs a variety of technical procedures which assist in the production of microscopic slides. Duties include handling, processing, embedding, cutting and staining of specimens; operation & maintaining automated equipment; mainlining specimen files and records, and performing other duties as needed.
Essential Responsibilities:
Receive pathology specimens. Implement appropriate procedures used for tissue processing. Perform embedding procedures on tissue specimens. Perform limited microtomy on tissue specimens (e.g., autopsy, control tissues, large specimens). Select appropriate stains and chemicals to perform H&E staining procedures. Accurately follow established protocols. Assist histology technicians in the performance of special histochemical stains as assigned. Label, package, and send out completed slides according to established procedures. Prepare, operate, and maintain automated equipment according to established protocols. Evaluate, assess and adapt procedures to deal with problems arising from equipment malfunctions or problems. Monitor and document instrument performance; check and recognize malfunctions and identify the need for repair. Maintain specimen files by filing, sorting, and removing and returning specimens/blocks. Answer the telephone; communicate with the area pathology departments and record testing requests. Serve as a resource person by answering questions and/or assisting in problem solving. Identify technical questions for referral to the lead technician or supervisor. Communicate problems to supervisors. Record quality control data for specimens, instruments, temperatures, and reagent. Maintain records and files, as assigned, following established procedures. Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of assigned areas. Order, and restock supplies as assigned. Demonstrates correct safety practices as defined in established protocols. Handles patient specimens, hazardous chemicals, and waste, according to policy.
Note:
The duties listed are representative only for the job classification, and the time spent performing specific duties may vary considerably depending on the shift worked.
Disclaimer:
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position and as such are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
Basic Qualifications:
Experience N/A. Education Knowledge in general biology, anatomy, math and chemistry, obtained through successful completion of college level courses, or equivalent laboratory experience, which includes one (1) year or more in a Histology Laboratory.
Must have the ability to learn quickly and to efficiently produce work in a large volume environment.
Physical skills:
Hand/eye coordination and physical dexterity needed to perform basic bioscience tasks such as the handling of specimens, chemical and biological agents. Ability to operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation that includes processors, embedding equipment, stainers, and cover-slippers. Physical dexterity would include grasping, bending, standing, reaching, and lifting up to 25-40 lbs.
Administrative and clerical skills:
Must accurately take telephone testing requests, and maintain documentation required to insure quality and continuity of laboratory testing and to meet regulatory requirements. Good verbal and written communication, in English, is required.
Interpersonal skills:
The laboratory setting involves individuals of different educational and experience backgrounds working together.
Interpersonal skills must include:
Ability to work as a team member. Effective communication. Ability to organize and prioritize time and resources in order to produce the most effective work performance. Ability to assess work tasks, recognize limitation and request assistance when appropriate. Must have knowledge of and experience in tissue specimen handling, processing, and routine staining techniques. Must have a good understanding of written/verbal English to be able to accurately follow written procedures, verbal instruction, and to communicate with physicians & pathology department staff.
Preferred Qualifications:
N/A.
Notes:
This variable schedule addresses staffing needs, leaves of absence, and special projects. Workdays and hours will vary as required. This is an on call position, days and hours may vary
No Kaiser Permanente is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair, respectful, and inclusive workplaces. Applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic or status. For jobs where work will be performed in unincorporated LA County, the employer provides the following statement in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship on the following job duties, potentially resulting in the withdrawal of the conditional offer of employment: Consistently supports compliance and the Principles of Responsibility (Kaiser Permanente's Code of Conduct) by maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of information, protecting the assets of the organization, acting with ethics and integrity, reporting non-compliance, and adhering to applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, accreditation, and licensure requirements (where applicable), and Kaiser Permanente's policies and procedures. Models and reinforces ethical behavior in self and others in accordance with the Principles of Responsibility, adheres to organizational policies and guidelines; supports compliance initiatives; maintains confidences; admits mistakes; conducts business with honesty, shows consistency in words and actions; follows through on commitments. Job duties with at least occasional or possible access to: (1) patients, the general public, or other employees; (2) confidential protected health information and other confidential KP information (including employee, proprietary, financial or trade secret information); (3) KP property and assets, for example, electronic assets, medical instruments, or devices; (4) controlled substances regulated by federal law or potentially subject to diversion.
