Laboratory Assistant, Histology

Title: Laboratory Assistant, Histology

Location: Chicago, IL, onsite

Reports to: Director of Histology

Full-time

Frontage Laboratories Inc. is an award winning, publicly listed (HKSE), full-service CRO/Contract Research Organization operating over 25 state-of-the-art laboratories across the US, Canada and China, and growing over 30% YOY. Our core competencies include drug metabolism, pharmacokinetics/ pharmacodynamics (PK/PD), safety and toxicology, bioanalytical services, chemistry and manufacturing controls for drug development, and core laboratory services for clinical trials.

Our Chicago, IL site provides toxicology testing and research laboratory services and specialized pre-clinical studies in support of pharmaceutical and biotechnology products.

Position/Job Summary: The successful candidate will assist in various tasks related to histological specimen accession, processing, staining, archiving, maintaining inventory, and receiving items. This role requires strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to work efficiently within a laboratory setting. The Histology Laboratory Aid will work closely with the Histotechnicians to assist in daily lab operations, and with the Histology Director and Pathology Coordination team to ensure the smooth operation of the laboratory and timely delivery of results.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Receive incoming tissue specimens and verify accuracy of accompanying documentation. Keep accurate records of all procedures performed, and results obtained.
• Prepare specimens for processing by accessioning, labeling, and assigning unique identifiers.
• Ensure proper cassettes and slides preparation (printing).
• Track specimen locations throughout the laboratory workflow, including trimming, processing, embedding, sectioning, staining, distribution for QC, Pathologist evaluation, storage, and shipment.
• Communicate effectively with laboratory personnel, pathologists, and other stakeholders to prioritize workload, coordinate specimen-related issues, specimen processing and delivery in a timely manner.
• Prepare staining solutions and perform routine staining procedures such as hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks (clean) and troubleshooting of histology equipment, including cassettes and slides printers, tissue processors, embedding stations, microtomes, stainers, and coverslippers.
• Monitor equipment to minimize downtime and ensure uninterrupted workflow.
• Documents all corrective actions performed on malfunctioning equipment and suitability for use prior to putting equipment back into service.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of laboratory equipment and workspaces.
• Performs quality control procedures.
• Maintain inventory and receiving items. Maintain the proper storage conditions of all specimens and reagents.
• Adhere to safety protocols and ensure compliance with laboratory regulations and guidelines.
• Performs additional duties and tasks as assigned by Management.
• Strictly adhere to all safety requirements.
• Provide training and guidance to new laboratory personnel on specimen handling procedures and best practices.
• Assist histotechnicians as needed.

Education, Experience & Skills Required :

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional education or training in histology or a related field is preferred.
• Prior experience working in a laboratory setting, preferably in histology or pathology.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Proficiency in basic computer skills and data entry.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings, weekends, or holidays as needed.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Must be able to stand or sit for extended period.
• Must be able to lift 10-20lb, and occasionally 40lbs.
• Must be able to tolerate strong odors.

Preferred Qualifications :

• Familiarity with histological techniques and procedures.
• Experience with histology equipment.
• Familiarity with quality control principles and procedures in laboratories.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort:

The Histology Lab Aid will primarily work in a laboratory environment, which may involve exposure to hazardous chemicals, biological specimens, and infectious agents. Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided, and adherence to safety protocols is essential. The position may require standing for extended periods and lifting/moving heavy objects. Flexibility in work hours may be necessary to accommodate laboratory operations and workload demands.

Salary and Benefits :

Frontage Laboratories offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including health and dental insurance, a 401(k) plan, disability insurance, and life insurance.

Frontage Laboratories Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.