Histotechnician I-II

Capital Digestive Care Laboratory is the largest specialty laboratory in the Mid-Atlantic states. With a focus on gastroenterology, the laboratory provides services to 30+ office and ASC locations with a growing number of referring provider offices.The Histotechnician I-II (Night Shift) prepares tissue samples for microscopic examination by a pathologist. Performs duties independently requiring sound judgement and problem-solving skills, under the general supervision of a supervisor, lead or charge technician. Performs all duties of Histo Tech I, in addition to, maintaining and programming tissue processors, performing special stains techniques and preparing various staining solutions, operating automated slide and cassette printers.Minimum Qualifications:EducationBachelor of Science (BS) degree in Medical Technology/Clinical Laboratory Science, Biological, Chemistry, or Physical sciences.Experience2 - 5 years of experience as a histology technician in a clinical laboratory environment.Preferred Qualifications:EducationBachelor of Science degree or higher in Medical Technology/Clinical Laboratory Science, Biological, Chemistry, or Physical sciences.ExperienceSuccessful completion of a NAACLS accredited Histotechnology training programOR completion of a clinical histology rotation in a NAACLS accredited laboratory granting HT(ASCP) eligibilityOR equivalent military certificate with histopathology or hospital specialty2 years of Surgical Pathology/Histology clinical laboratory experienceCertificationCertification through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) as a Histotechnician (HT) or Histotechnologist (HTL)Duties & Responsibilities:Job duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:Work requires knowledge of histochemistry, microscopy, processing techniques, preparation of specimens, medical terminology, and chemistry. An understanding of metric system is required.Following standard operating procedures, capable of independently performing:Loading and programming tissue processorsEmbedding and organizing paraffin blocksMicrotomy at appropriate thicknessStaining of routine slides with hematoxylin and eosinGrossing specimensPerforming slide/block match for quality control recognizing discrepancies and takes corrective actionPerforms microscopic quality control review of slides for routine and special stainsUse of laboratory equipment, including but not limited to: coverslipper, water baths, ovens, computers, printers, microwave, etc.Capable of performing preventative maintenance on microtomes, automatic stainer, coverslipper, automated stainers and other equipment as specified.Computer competencyOperation of the automated slide and cassette printing systemRequires basic knowledge of theory and concept of Immunohistochemistry.Requires critical thinking and analytical skills to troubleshoot complex tasksPerforms technical services and operations for the preparation of surgical and cytology specimens, which ensures accurate identification of these specimens.Evaluates normal and abnormal tissue components; orients and embeds tissue specimens correctly for microscopic examination.Prepares paraffin sections of tissues; recognizes technical problems related to tissue embedding and sectioning; takes appropriate corrective actions to assure superlative tissue sections.Assists in the development and introduction of new immunohistochemical stains and in situ hybridization staining procedures to include validation studies, and assessment of the adequacy of the control slides.Participates in the staining of slides for the CAP immunohistochemistry proficiency tests.Recognizes factors that affect staining results; assesses the adequacy of staining and sectioning by review and assessment of the slides; takes corrective action to improve stain results when necessary.Performs, evaluates, and documents quality control slides and procedures for all types of staining procedures.Troubleshoots problems with instrumentation and performs routine maintenance on the equipment as defined by the manufacturer and outlined in the procedure manual.Troubleshoots assays and all related instrumentation.Maintains equipment quality control and preventive maintenance records with respect to all tasks to which he/she is assigned.Maintains service filing systems to include the specimens, paraffin blocks, prepared slides, service records, and all related documents as established by the service.Adheres to the customer service standards of the department and organization.Participates in in-service education programs and attend annual mandatory compliance program training.Participates in activities that promote adherence to state & federal healthcare program requirements.Adheres to the requirements of the HIPAA Privacy Policies and Procedures.Maintains confidentiality of patients and staff.Performs other job-related duties as assigned.Reads and follows Standard Operating Procedures while performing assays in the laboratory.Performs CAP survey samples and other proficiency testing in the same manner as patient tests.Keeps accurate documentation of all QC, temperature monitoring, maintenance, etc.Identify, diagnose, and troubleshoot issues that may arise with laboratory results and instrumentation.Determines validity of specimens and documents all pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical errors.Takes weekly inventory and orders necessary reagents and supplies for the laboratory operations.Excellent verbal and written communication skills.Works under the Lead Histotech, Anatomic Pathology Supervisor, Anatomic Pathology Manager and Director of Anatomic Pathology Operations.Physical Demands and Work Environment:Frequently required to sit, stand, talk and hear, utilize finger and hand dexterityFrequently required to utilize visual acuity to operate equipment, read technical information, and/or use a keyboardOccasionally exposed to bloodborne and airborne pathogens or infectious materialsWill require occasional travel within the region to patient care centers