Histology Technician

Histology Technician

Position reports to the Section Technical Lead and Department Manager. Prepares tissues for microscopic examination by a Pathologist according to established protocols. In doing so, processes specimens by freezing and cutting tissue sections, selecting optimal tissue sections and floating them onto glass slides and staining or treating the tissue with reagents so as to reveal specific structural details under microscopicanalysis. Position is responsible for preparing and maintaining solutions and reagents as needed, according to established protocols. Shows attention to detail, knowledge of the chemical rationale of the staining procedures performed, and the skills required to recognize and remedy technical difficulties encountered with the processing of tissue samples.

Responsibility for Mission and Service Values

Demonstrates respect for the dignity and needs of others while striving to fulfill our mission of caring and peace through excellence in health care.

1) Displays sensitivity and respect for the needs of patients and others. Places first priority on the well-being of the patient. Treats others with courtesy. Maintains professionalism by remaining objective. Acknowledges others. Demonstrates appreciation for others who contribute to quality.

2)Timeliness. Demonstrates responsiveness to patients, their families, co-workers, and visitors in a timely manner. Responds to requests in a timely manner. Keeps promises and commitments. Completes assigned tasks.

3)Accuracy. Demonstrates attentiveness to detail in all procedures. Completes job responsibilities with minimal errors.

4)Thoroughness. Demonstrates a willingness to provide service to all customers encountered. Politely responds to requests from those we serve. Serves as a role model.

5)Coordination. Demonstrates good organizational skills in coordinating services with co-workers and other departments/services. Cooperates with all departments/services to facilitate integrated patient care.

Job Specific Duties and Responsibilities

1)Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of procedures for Universal Blood and Body Fluid Precautions. Relates proper techniques necessary to their service and job role. Understands importance and is aware of the procedure for reporting any and all blood and body fluid exposures. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of procedures outlined in the Chemical Hygiene Plan. Maintains work area and equipment in clean and orderly condition. Performs laboratory functions and procedures with proper safety attire. Maintains sanitary and safe work area. Follows all safety precautions/contraindications.

2)Prepares fixed and frozen section specimens for pathologists according to laboratory procedure.

3)Receives and releases tissue specimens according to hospital and laboratory procedure, identifies same according to established coding scheme and logs specimens, recording date, type and a variety of patient information. Releases specimens according to laboratory procedure.

4)Assists pathologist with gross examinations and autopsy specimens.

5)Assists pathologist with autopsy as required.

6)Prepares laboratory solutions and reagents according to established procedures and precise formulae in order to maintain adequate quantities to carry out assignments.

7)Catalogues and files slides, and maintains records of activities/quality assurance performed. Prepares referred specimens for outside consultation and receive/process results as required.

8)Maintains equipment and instruments in working order. Performs simple routine maintenance on equipment. Documents maintenance activities as part of section’s quality assurance program.

9)Instructs histology students, lab assistants, or new employees in proper histology techniques and use of equipment as required.

10)Supports and is involved in the facilities continuous quality improvement efforts designed to increase patient outcomes, increase patient satisfaction, and improve the utilization of the facility’s human, capital, and physical resources.

11)Maintains knowledge of current trends and techniques in the field by reading appropriate journals, books and other literature and attending related seminars, conferences and the like.

12)Develops and maintains a positive working relationship with department and Medical Center personnel and outside agencies.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

Associate's Degree in a Science related field

Completion of a NAACLS accredited program

ASCP Certified

Minimum of 1 year experience as a Histo Tech

Associate degree (Bachelors degree preferred) in a science related field and qualified to completewith successful completion of a NAACLS accredited Histotechnology program, required within one year of employment. Certification by the Board of Certification of American Society for Clinical Pathology is required within 1 year of employment. No experience required.

Certification by Board of Registry of American Society of Clinical Pathologyists is required within 1 year of employment.

Approximately one to three months on the job experience is necessary in order to gain knowledge of histochemical reagents, solutions and equipment maintenance, and ability to perform a wide variety of histology procedures.

Interpersonal skills necessary in order to interact effectively with physicians, technologists and other personnel when gathering and exchanging specimen-related information.

Analytical skills necessary to ascertain physician needs and determine appropriate specimen preparation method, to determine suitability of stains on specimens and the like.

Associates degree is required, preferred bachelors if possible.

Regularly Scheduled - set shifts. M-F 8hr shifts. AM shift does work Saturday mornings (approx. 1 Sat./month for each tech). Evening shift is M-F 8hrs. Night shift is split, Sunday night – Thursday night for some, Monday night – Friday night for others.

Size of lab - – 22 Histo Techs, 7 Lab Assistants

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $40.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Relocation assistance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $25 - $40