Histology Technician

OVERALL SUMMARY:

Precisely and accurately performs a variety of routine and specialized histology techniques and procedures. Sets an example in following standard operating procedures, quality control, and approved quality assurance. Meet embedding and sectioning productivity standards. Meets schedules, priority demands, and deadlines. Demonstrates flexibility and versatility in coordinating tasks. Works with minimal supervision and takes on special projects.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Knowledge:  

• Demonstrate proficiency with accessioning, grossing, microtomes, tissue processors, stainers, and equipment used to produce a stained and labeled slide
• Perform microscopic evaluation of own work and uses the information gained to reduce error and improve performance. 
• Can recognize positive results. Can differentiate incorrectly performed work and correct it.
• Reviews all procedure manuals, safety manuals, equipment operator's manuals and current policy
• Demonstrate complete understanding of all test procedures.
• Learns specialty areas of test performance.
• Embeds tissue correctly (minimum of 45 small blocks per hour embedding time). 
• Perform quality microtomy sectioning that are artifact-free and meet protocol. (sections a minimum of 70-90 blocks per shift).
• Staining procedures are accurate & precise
• Clerical tasks are correct and complete.
• Slides are correctly labeled. Levels or other needed information is accurately transferred to the slides

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Attends continuing education to meet licensure requirements.
• Complete workload-recording sheets, daily.  
• Performs Q/C and Q/A documentation as required
• Upkeep of logbooks.
• Meets deadlines. Organize work to meet established turnaround times.  
• Prioritizes tasks according to current departmental practices.  
• Expedites "Rush" specimens. Integrates slide availability with current courier schedules.
• Equipment maintenance, housekeeping, supply inventory and stocking, replenishes routine reagents, out-dates expired ones, and leaves test “set-ups” in good condition for the next user.
• Adherence to Safety Regulations
• Adherence to HIPAA Regulations
• Other task/duties as assigned

Physical and Cognitive Requirements:

• Ability to master delicate mechanical movements carefully and safely perform tasks requiring incremental adjustments.
• Ability to physically, audibly, and visually (including color discrimination) perform all functions, with reasonable accommodation.

Education: A.S. Degree in Histology required, B.S. Degree desired.

Experience:  

• H.T. and/or H.T.L. (ASCP) certification required.
• Must meet Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA '88) for High complexity testing. 
• Previous experience as a histology technician or technologist is preferred.  

Environment:

• Risk of biological and/or chemical exposure.
• Fast-paced laboratory environment.
• Sitting or standing for long periods of time.
• Acting as a role model for dependability, customer service, and job performance is expected.