Senior Histotechnologist

GENERAL OVERVIEW:
Responsible for managing laboratory functions across various technical areas with minimal oversight. Conducts both standard and intricate analytical processes in the preparation of human tissue specimens, bodily fluids, and cultured cells for histological analysis utilizing manual methods or laboratory instruments and information systems. Instructs on both standard and specialized laboratory techniques. Ensures adherence to established protocols. Engages in applied research and development initiatives. Involved in onboarding, competency evaluations, and quality enhancement efforts.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Supervises and executes routine and advanced histological techniques on human tissue, bodily fluids, and cultured cells, employing manual or automated methods and information systems. The Senior Histotechnologist is equipped to undertake all responsibilities associated with the role, and specific duties may vary based on the position.
2. Utilizes expertise, training, and independent clinical judgment to implement actions and/or devise solutions. Collaborates with leadership to enhance processes and address challenges.
a. Accountable for establishing and maintaining standard work practices that ensure consistent quality and necessary corrective and preventive measures.
b. Assesses instrument performance and quality control outcomes to guarantee accuracy and reliability prior to data release;
c. Correlates findings with other laboratory data and/or disease conditions;
d. Identifies technical, instrument-related, pharmacological, and/or physiological factors contributing to unexpected test outcomes.
3. Develops and implements standard operating procedures for routine and advanced histology applications, including special staining techniques, muscle histochemistry, direct immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, and electron microscopy.
4. Conducts calibration, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting of technical equipment across multiple workstations. Following successful competency assessments, may carry out processing, testing, and reporting independently.
5. Aids in resolving technical issues and serves as a technical resource, reallocating workflow or assignments as necessary to ensure adequate coverage and service standards. May assist in preparing staffing schedules.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with at least 30 semester hours in biology and chemistry.
• Minimum of three years of progressive experience in a CAP-accredited histology laboratory.
• Proven technical proficiency and theoretical knowledge sufficient to perform, instruct, and lead laboratory operations.
• Familiarity with Lean principles and methodologies is preferred.
• Vision: Near Acuity: Ability to see clearly at 20 inches or less.
• Depth Perception: Ability to judge distance and spatial relationships.
• Accommodation: Ability to adjust vision to bring objects into focus.
• Color Vision: Ability to distinguish and identify different colors necessary for job functions.

CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSURES REQUIRED:
• Certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) as a Histology Technologist (HTL) is required.
• For Senior Histotechnologist in Immunohistochemistry, Qualification in Immunohistochemistry (QIHC) by ASCP is preferred.