Histology Technologist

The Histology Technician precisely and accurately performs a variety of routine and specialized histology techniques and procedures. The Technician sets an example in following standard operating procedures, quality control, and approved quality assurance, and meets embedding and sectioning productivity standards.

The Technician meets schedules, priority demands, and deadlines, and shows flexibility and versatility in coordinating tasks. The Technician works with minimal supervision and takes on special projects.

Requirements

Knowledge and Technical Skills

• Demonstrates proficiency with accessioning, grossing, microtomes, tissue processors, stainers, and equipment used to produce a stained and labeled slide.
• Performs microscopic evaluation of own work and uses the information gained to reduce error and improve performance.
• Recognizes positive results; differentiates incorrectly performed work and corrects it.
• Reviews all procedure manuals, safety manuals, equipment operator's manuals, and current policy.

Demonstrates complete understanding of all test procedures and learns specialty areas of test performance.

Productivity and Quality Standards

Embedding Minimum of 45 small blocks per hour of embedding time

Microtomy Minimum of 70–90 blocks sectioned per shift; sections are artifact-free and meet protocol

Staining Procedures are accurate and precise

Labeling Slides are correctly labeled; levels and other needed information are accurately transferred

Clerical Tasks are correct and complete

Duties and Responsibilities

• Attends continuing education to meet licensure requirements.
• Completes workload-recording sheets daily.
• Performs Q/C and Q/A documentation as required, and keeps logbooks up to date.
• Meets deadlines and organizes work to meet established turnaround times.
• Prioritizes tasks according to current departmental practices.
• Expedites "Rush" specimens and coordinates slide availability with current courier schedules.
• Performs equipment maintenance, housekeeping, and supply inventory and stocking; replenishes routine reagents, removes expired ones, and leaves test "set-ups" in good condition for the next user.
• Adheres to safety regulations.
• Adheres to HIPAA regulations.
• Performs other tasks and duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications

• A.S. degree in Histology required, B.S. in Histology or related science desired
• H.T. or H.T.L. (ASCP); meets CLIA '88 personnel requirements for high complexity testing
• Previous experience as a histology technician or technologist desired

Working Environment

• Risk of biological and/or chemical exposure.
• Fast-paced laboratory environment.
• Sitting and/or standing for long periods of time.