Histotechnician

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensures specimens are properly accessioned, labeled, and suitable for testing. Cuts quality tissue sections with proper thickness as determined by tissue type and places properly on glass slides.
• Embeds tissue into paraffin blocks. Maintains a filing system for paraffin tissue blocks, slides and wet tissue.
• Processes tissue using processors to ensure full preservation and infiltration by paraffin.
• Performs routine and special stains, immunohistochemistry, cover slipping, verification, and distribution of slides.
• Retrieves and prints computer logs. Manages daily workflow for recuts, special stains, immunohistochemistry, control slides, and send-outs according to established protocols.
• Performs and documents quality control. Evaluates quality control results and takes corrective action under the guidance of key operators, technical specialists or supervisor.
• Performs and documents cleaning, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of instruments and equipment.
• Assists pathologists during frozen section procedures.
• Ensures compliance with all accrediting agency standards.
• Provides assistance to pathologists, externs, and other team members.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• License/Registration/Certification Required: n/a
• Education Required: Advanced training beyond high school in a science related field
• Experience Required: No experience required

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Knowledge of human anatomy
• Must be detail oriented and have good organizational and communication skills
• Must know how to safely handle sharp instruments
• Proficient computer skills

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

• Sits and stands the majority of the workday as well as walks, lifts, squats, bends and twists throughout
• Frequently lifts up to 10 lbs. Will occasionally be required to lift up to 50 lbs
• May be exposed to mechanical, electrical, chemical, explosive, radioactive and infectious agents
• Will be exposed to human blood, body fluids and tissue
• Must wear appropriate lab coat, gloves, gowns and eye and face protection as needed
• Operates all equipment necessary to perform the job

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.