A Histotechnologist or Histotechnician works in a medical laboratory and prepares samples of human or animal tissue for examination under a microscope.
Prepares histologic slides from human tissue sections for microscopic examination and diagnosis by Pathologist.
Responsibilities:
Prepares sections of human tissue for microscopic examination and patient diagnosis, using techniques to gross (dissect tissue), embed (orient specimen in paraffin block), section (cut thin sections of tissue), stain (enhance contrast of tissue and highlight specific features of interest with routine hematoxylin and eosin stains), and mount tissue (adhere tissue onto glass slides), from surgical procedures. Performs recuts and additional stains including special and immunohistochemistry stains, as requested by a Pathologist. Operates computerized laboratory equipment to fix, dehydrate, and infiltrate with wax, tissue specimens to be preserved for study by Pathologist. May label requisitions, specimen containers, cassettes and/or slides and affixes coverslip to slides. Maintains laboratory equipment and tracks all routine maintenance and quality controls performed. Files, retrieves, and distributes blocks, slides, and pathology reports. Operates, cleans, and sterilizes laboratory equipment, glassware, instruments and workstation. Disposes of hazardous chemical wastes per regulatory guidelines. Maintains strictest confidentiality. Complies with all State, Federal, professional regulations as well as company and departmental rules, polices, and procedural manuals. Adherence to CAP, CLIA, State Regulations, HIPAA, Safety and OSHA Regulations. Performs other duties as assigned.
Education/Licensure/Certification:
Associate's Degree in the field of Laboratory Science or Medical Laboratory technology obtained from an accredited institution or equivalent under the 1988 Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) guidelines of high complexity testing. OR Education/training equivalent to the above that includes at least 60 semester hours or equivalent from an accredited institution. This education must include 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses, or 24 semester hours of science courses that includes 6 semester hours of chemistry, 6 semester hours of biology, and 12 semester hours of chemistry, biology or medical laboratory technology in any combination. State licensure, if applicable. Certified or eligible for Board of Certification (BOC) by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP).
Experience:
Completion of a Histology program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) or minimum of one (1) year experience as a full-time Histology Technician Trainee and competent in the areas of fixation, processing, embedding, microtomy, special stains, immunohistochemistry, grossing and lab operations.
Requirements:
Successful completion of a pre-employment visual color discrimination test. Successful completion of annual education units per state licensure and/or ASCP guidelines.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
Knowledge of CLIA regulations regarding proficiency testing, quality assurance and quality control. Knowledge of laboratory policies and procedures, equipment, and testing to monitor control checks. Knowledge of medical terminology to communicate with laboratory staff. Knowledge of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Skill in using computer programs and applications. Skill in performing a full range of laboratory tests and operating a variety of laboratory instrumentation and equipment. Ability to listen, read, understand, and follow oral, and written instruction. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely. Ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with employees, physicians, vendors, clients, and external agencies.
Pay:
$30.00•$37.50 per hour
Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Disability insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance
