Histology Assistant

At Memorial Hermann, we pursue a common goal of delivering high quality, efficient care while creating exceptional experiences for every member of our community. When we say every member of our community, that includes our employees. We know that when our employees feel cared for, heard and valued, they are inspired to create moments that exceed expectations, while prioritizing safety, compassion, personalization and efficiency. If you want to advance your career and contribute to our vision of creating healthier communities, now and for generations to come, we want you to be a part of our team.

Job Summary

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or GED preferred.

Licenses/Certifications: (None)

Experience / Knowledge / Skills:

• One (1) year clinical work experience or graduate of an approved medical trade school program.
• Working knowledge of computers.

Principal Accountabilities

• Performs daily department operations including gross room/cryostat preparation, specimen transport and processing, communicating special issues or circumstances to appropriate personnel, and quality documentation at a competent level and according to the age/needs of the patient/population served.
• Performs clerical duties as required to maintain efficient workflow.
• Maintains/stores slides, files, reference testing, specimens, and reports.
• Responsible for sending specimens to reference laboratories; packaging, tracking, resulting, escalating issues as needed.
• Maintains laboratory glassware, temperature dependent equipment documentation, and cleaning logs.
• Performs maintenance and cleaning activities as scheduled to maintain readiness and cleanliness.
• Provides operational assistance to pathologists and pathology assistants.
• Gains and maintains functional knowledge of system computers and vendor software as required by job assignment.
• Ensures safe care for patients, staff, and visitors; adheres to all Memorial Hermann policies, procedures, and standards within budgetary specifications, including time management, supply management, productivity, and quality of service.
• Promotes individual professional growth and development by meeting requirements for mandatory/continuing education, skills competency, supports department-based goals which contribute to the success of the organization; serves as preceptor, mentor, and resource to less experienced staff.
• Complies with policies, procedures, and initiatives of Laboratory Services, the hospital, and system; understands, communicates, and complies with standards and conditions set forth by various governmental and accrediting agencies including TJC, CAP, AABB, CMS, HCFA, and CLIA.
• Demonstrates commitment to caring for every member of our community by creating compassionate and personalized experiences. Models Memorial Hermann’s service standards by providing safe, caring, personalized and efficient experiences to patients and colleagues.
• Other duties as assigned.

TMC Laboratory only:

• Provides guidance and assistance to pathology residents in assigned TMC Laboratory workflows.
• Assists with Memorial Hermann approved research protocols in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Completes required Morgue Log documentation before and after postmortem examinations and retrieves, transfers, and returns decedents to designated morgue storage using additional staff and/or mechanical lifting equipment, as appropriate.
• Assists pathologists and pathology residents with postmortem examinations and related tissue/specimen handling and photography, as trained and directed.
• Assists with proper restoration and preparation of decedents for release to the funeral home.
• Collaborates with OA, Nursing, Pathology, and Laboratory leadership to support safe and effective morgue and autopsy operations.
• Maintains morgue/autopsy equipment and supplies, required quality and safety records, and appropriate handling or disposition of biohazard waste, linens, and stored specimens in accordance with policy.