Job Summary:

Under the general supervision of the Pathologist and technologist in charge, the Histologic Technician will prepare tissue specimens by treating with chemicals, slicing, and mounting on glass slides for microscopic examination and analysis.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Performs specimen collection, accessioning and logging routines that include: making scheduled rounds to pick up surgical specimens; checking specimens for criteria of acceptability, assuring proper patient identification, specimen integrity, and appropriate paperwork; recording receipt of specimens in the log and assigning identification number according to department protocol; referring any problem specimen to the area of collection and informing the supervisor for follow-up action where necessary
• Assists pathologists with tissue grossing procedures such as: preparing the tissue grossing area with appropriate materials and instruments; maintaining and assuring specimen identification by correctly labeling cassettes and maintaining workflow in concert with the pathologist; cleaning workstations at the completion of grossing procedures. Ensures aseptic techniques and observes health safety protocols during the cleanup procedure to minimize risks to self and co-workers.
• Processes, embeds, and sections tissues for slides.
• Performs preventive maintenance and quality-control procedures such as oiling and cleaning microtomes according to schedule, recording temperatures on various instruments, changing the processor according to procedure, and changing staining solutions.
• Contributes to general laboratory functions and institutional needs by attending regular staff meetings and related continuing education activities; observing hospital and laboratory policies and safety practices and maintaining a safe, clean, and prepared work area.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Education and Experience:

• Completion of a CAHEA-accredited histotechnology program, or;
• Associates degree plus one year of full-time experience in histopathology within the last three years under the supervision of a pathologist, or;
• High school graduate or equivalent and two years of full-time experience in histopathology within the last five years under the supervision of a pathologist.
• ASCP certification as a histologic technician or eligible for certification.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.