Histology Technician

Performs the processing, embedding, cutting, and staining of tissue specimens though procedural standards that assures the accuracy, timeliness and quality control of results. Schedule for this position: 32 hours per week, Monday - Friday 2:30am to 9:30am. Possible varied hours to adjust based on staffing needs. Hiring pay range is $32.25/hr to $45/hr. Actual rate dependent on professional qualifications and experience. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBILITIES: Preparing Slides

• Verifies sample identification.
• Processes specimen according to established histology procedure.
• Performs embedding of tissue samples.
• Performs microtomy of tissue blocks to produce high quality tissue sections.
• Performs routine H&E staining, IHC and special staining procedures.
• Prepares correct reagents and solutions utilized in procedure.

Quality Control and Maintenance

• Follows quality control procedures and maintains records. Documents and notifies lab manager of any problems.
• Cleans and performs daily and/or preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment. Documents those tasks and reports repairs to lab manager.
• Troubleshooting instrument and procedure problems with appropriate documentation, consulting instrument manufacture or lab manager, if necessary.
• Cleans and disinfects work area and properly disposes of bio-hazardous material as needed and at least on a daily basis.
• Inventories reagents and tool parts to ensure adequate supplies for the work. Notifies lab manager in a timely manner of supply shortages or of expiring reagents.
• Accurately files paraffin blocks and slides for efficient retrieval.
• Prints out appropriate work list and reconcile any discrepancies at the beginning and end of day.
• Performs special technical and other duties as assigned.
• Adheres to established safety protocols and observes universal precautions in all phases of laboratory testing.
• Assist in updating departmental procedure manuals.
• Assist in writing procedures for laboratory conforming to NCCLS guidelines.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Able to consistently demonstrate essential clinical competencies for this role and license/certification.
• Able to wear personal protective equipment (e.g. face mask, goggles, gloves) as needed.
• Excellent understanding of Histology techniques.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to interact effectively coworkers, lab manager, and pathologists.
• Ability to work independently while functioning as a team member.
• Ability to organize and prioritize workflow independently.
• Ability to multi-task while focusing on minute details. Excellent follow-through on all tasks required.
• Critical thinking skills required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Graduate of an accredited Histotechnician (HT) or Histotechnologist (HTL) program preferred.
• HT (ASCP) or HLT (ASCP) certification preferred.
• If not HT or HTL certified, must have an associate degree in biological or science field
• Minimum of one year recent experience as a Histology Tech required.
• One year internship in hospital Histology Laboratory or an approved Histology program preferred.
• Previous experience with computer software is helpful.

Pay Range:
$31.62 - $47.43 The above information is intended to indicate the general nature and level of work required in this position. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive description of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of those assigned to this job. We offer a competitive Total Rewards Program. Eligibility for benefits is dependent on factors such as position type and FTE. Benefit-eligible employees qualify for benefits beginning on the first of the month following one month of employment. Vancouver Clinic offers medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, long term disability, health savings account, flexible spending account, employee assistance program, and multiple supplemental benefits (voluntary life, critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity, identity theft protection, legal services, etc.). We also offer a 401k retirement plan, with employer contributions after your first year of employment. Benefits-eligible employees accrue PTO and Personal Time based on hours worked and State worked, totaling 120 hours in the first year for full time staff and 200 hours in the first year for full time supervisors and above, increasing in subsequent years. PTO and Personal Time accruals are pro-rated by FTE/hours worked. Non-benefits eligible employees will accrue Personal Time based on hours worked and State worked. Employees will also enjoy up to six paid holidays per year, depending on schedule. Contact your recruiter for more information. Vancouver Clinic is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Vancouver Clinic does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, disability, veteran, military status, religion, age, creed, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law. Vancouver Clinic is an alcohol and drug-free workplace. Offers are contingent on successful completion of background screen and immunization requirements.