Histologist

Overview

Responsible for accuracy in the process and preparation of tissue specimens for pathological examination.  Must have a working knowledge of histology, staining procedures, histology equipment/instruments and computers.

Responsibilities

• Possesses a working knowledge of histology procedures, including embedding and microtomy.
• Possesses a working knowledge of special staining procedures and can perform manually as well as in automated instruments.
• Possesses a working knowledge of immunohistochemical staining procedures and can perform on automated instruments.
• Perform and assist pathologists with frozen sections.
• Assist pathology assistant/gross room tech for gross description of tissues, including specimen retrieval and/or accurate accessioning and labeling of specimens and cassettes.
• Inventories and stocks supplies. Checks, inspects, and ensures proper storage and handling.
• Ability to troubleshoot instrument, reagent or procedural problems.

DCH Standards:

• Maintains performance, patient and employee satisfaction and financial standards as outlined in the performance evaluation.
• Performs compliance requirements as outlined in the Employee Handbook.
• Must adhere to the DCH Behavioral Standards including creating positive relationships with patients/families, coworkers, colleagues and with self.
• Performs essential job functions in a manner that ensures the safety of patients, visitors and employees.
• Identifies and reduces unsafe practices that may result in harm to patients, visitors and employees.
• Recognizes and takes appropriate action to reduce risks and hazards to promote safety for patients, visitors and employees.
• Requires use of electronic mail, time and attendance software, learning management software and intranet.
• Must adhere to all DCH Health System policies and procedures.
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum education is an associate degree in clinical laboratory science or biological science, with certification  as a histologist or histology technician by one of the nationally recognized certification agencies: American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) preferred; the American Medical Technologist (AMT) acceptable. 

Applicants who were hired prior to 1988 or who have been in practice continually since then can be “grandfathered” for educational requirements, in accordance with CLIA guidelines.

Abilities are demonstrated in areas of assigned responsibilities by successful completion of annual laboratory competency testing.  Must be able to read, write legibly, speak, and comprehend English.

Must possess manual dexterity and fine motor skills. Able to stand, walk, and sit for long periods of

time, reach and bend. Is able to lift a maximum of 50 pounds with frequent lifting and/or carrying objects weighing

up to 20 pounds. Vision and hearing must be normal or corrected to within normal. Normal color vision for those tasks requiring color differentiation. 

Includes exposure to human body fluids, disease, infection, laboratory chemicals and hazardous material.  Requires wearing common protective or safety equipment.  Physical presence on site is essential.  Able to perform the duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

Frequent interaction with others in the Laboratory and other departments in person, by telephone or by email, to resolve issues with patient care that are impacted by laboratory testing.  Due to the emotional and/or emergency nature of patient care some customers may be unpleasant, angry or discourteous in their requests for Laboratory services.