Histology Technologist

 

Position Summary
The Histology Technologist I will utilize the knowledge necessary to assist pathology professionals with Immunohistochemistry (IHC), specimen processing, embedding, slide preparation, microtomy, and other high-complexity procedures performed in the laboratory.
This position works under direct supervision and follows standard procedures and written instructions to accomplish assigned tasks.

Job Responsibilities

• Performs routine histology tasks; embedding, cutting, H&E staining and cover slipping.
• Performs high complexity testing, such as grossing, processing, immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining, utilizing automatic staining systems and QC of stained slides.
• Responsible for the successful execution of laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures, and undergoes training and routine competencies for applicable tasks completed within the department.
• Maintains diagnostic viability of all specimens and ensures correct patient labeling, by routinely verifying that case identification numbers, match blocks and slides during each processing step; prints labels as appropriate.
• Documents in laboratory logs and the laboratory information system (LIS), as directed by standard operating procedures.
• Maintains laboratory equipment and ensures that the equipment is in proper working order, and notifies leadership if maintenance and/or repairs are needed.
• Demonstrates capability of identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of tests results and takes appropriate action
• Assists as needed to perform other related duties and special projects to support the laboratory, as required.
• CLIA/NYS/CAP/ISO 15189 2012:
• Each individual performs only those high complexity tests that are authorized by the laboratory director and require a degree of skill commensurate with the individual's education, training or experience, and technical abilities. Each individual performing high complexity testing must:
• Follow the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting and maintaining records of patient test results;
• Maintain records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient specimens;
• Adhere to the laboratory's quality control policies, document all quality control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed;
• Follow the laboratory's established policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established acceptable levels of performance;
• Be capable of identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results and either must correct the problems or immediately notify the general supervisor, technical supervisor, clinical consultant, or director;
• Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications; and
• Perform high complexity testing under the onsite, direct supervision of a general supervisor as defined in the CLIA regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to take and follow direction and to know who the resources are for their direction.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word, Excel, Outlook, and general
  working knowledge of Internet for business use.
• Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-past, deadline driven environment.
• Enthusiasm and dedication to meeting group objectives.
• Strong willingness to learn, continuously improve and train others.
• Drive for Results (Service, Quality, and Continuous Improvement) – Ensure procedures and processes are in place that lead to delivery of quality results and continually
  reassess their effectiveness to achieve continuous improvement.
• Communication – Proficient verbal and written communication skills. Willingness to
  share and receive information and ideas from all levels of the organization in order to
  achieve the desired results.
• Teamwork – Commitment to the successful achievement of team and organizational
  goals through a desire to participate with and help other members of the team.
• Customer Service Focus – Demonstrate a focus on listening to and understanding
  client/customer needs and then delighting the client/customer by exceeding service and quality expectations.
• Ability to work under routine and stressful situations in an accurate and timely manner.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures for biohazards and chemicals, as well as
  quality control procedures and regulations.
• Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills. Proven attention to detail with
  effective organizational skills.
• Effective interpersonal and team skills.
• Accepts other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• 1+ years' experience in an IHC/histology laboratory or two years as a Histology Technician Trainee or one year as a Histology Technician Trainee plus completion of NAACLS accredited Histology program.
• Must meet high complexity requirements:
• A bachelor's degree in a chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institution

OR

• Associate degree in a laboratory science or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution

OR

• At least 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution that, at a minimum, includes either:
• 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses OR
• 24 semester hours of science courses that include:
• 6 semester hours of chemistry;
• 6 semester hours of biology; AND
• 12 semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination

AND

• Completion of a clinical laboratory training program (this training may be included in the 60 semester hours listed above) Approved or accredited by the:
• ABHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools)
• CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs)

OR

• At least 3 months of documented laboratory training in IHC/histology high-complexity testing.

Preferred Qualifications

• HT/HTL (ASCP) certification eligible and preferred.
• QIHC is strongly advised