Histopathology Technician
Salary: $71,091 to $111,812 annually (dependent on education/experience)
Work Schedule: Monday – Friday: day shift only
Location: John Cochran VA Medical Center, St. Louis.
Summary
Incumbent uses independent judgment to perform the full range of duties including analyzing and evaluating laboratory results. Carries out the day-to-day operations in the laboratory with minimal technical supervision. This includes routine and complex histopathological and cytopathological procedures, quality control and assurance procedures, operation and routine maintenance of instrumentation, troubleshooting, and principles of performance improvement.
Responsibilities
The histotechnologist typically performs procedures in preparing histologic sections (surgical pathology, autopsy and cell blocks) working independently (with limited supervision of the supervisor or designee as the need arises). These procedures are performed in the manner described by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) as well as the written guidelines of PLMS and as required by The Joint Commission, and other regulatory agencies.
Prepares solutions and reagents used in the Histology Laboratory.
Monitor reagents inventory, knows the amount of reagent needed to keep on hand performing tasks and replenish the supplies as the need arises.
Receiving and correctly accessioning the different histology and cytology specimens accurately into the patients' electronic medical record system.
Prepares samples, slides, smears, or other types of specimens common to the laboratory.
Operates tissue processors and ensure optimal tissue fixation, dehydration and paraffin infiltration.
Paraffin embeds processed tissues.
Performs microtomy and cut various tissue section levels on a variety of specimen types.
Mounts tissue sections on slides avoiding folds, chatter, and floaters on a properly warmed water bath.
Performs a variety of standard routine hematoxylin and Eosin stains as well as special histochemical stains such as: PAS, trichrome, myelin, amyloid, mucin, reticulin, luxol-fast blue, bacterial stains, fungal stains, acid-fast stains.
Provide technical assistance for intra-operative frozen section consultations.
Maintains the staining row and the cryostat in the frozen section room.
Performs minor duties in the morgue as needed.
Follows standard procedures and applies a practical knowledge of the properties of the specimens to ensure an adequate sample for pathologist diagnosis.
Performs manual procedures as required during computer down times.
Work with the other team members, pathology assistant, resident and pathologist to gain a better understanding concerning the proper tissue embedding technique and to understand the established protocol for the number of sections required.
Monitors the integrity of laboratory facilities and equipment and the environment for contamination.
Closely monitor instruments and equipment in the Anatomic Pathology Laboratory for proper functioning and optimal performance.
Perform and record machine maintenance in the preventative maintenance manual.
Calibrate the pH meter.
Receives and assess reagents procured for use in the Anatomic pathology laboratory.
Properly stores reagents received and promptly notifies supervisor if any damage had been done to the shipment.
Maintains laboratory records including inventory of reagents and also records of machine maintenance.
Record manually or electronically all activities and work performed.
Check quality control (QC) of stains and complete the proper QC forms for Pathologist review.
Performs established quality control procedures to check the accuracy and validity of the test results. Any deviations in quality control results are documented and reported to the supervisor. Prior to further processing for analysis of patients' sample, the incumbent takes action to correct the quality control deviations.
Identifies instrument malfunctions and takes appropriate action to correct them.
Identifies unusual test results or discrepancies/conditions that can cause erroneous results (instrument malfunction, conditions of test performance, reaction systems and/or test procedures). Takes appropriate action to make corrections and solve problems.
Observes all laboratory safety and infection control practices in accordance with the procedures established by national, regional, and facility policies.
Other duties as assigned.
Knowledge of professional histology principles, practices, concepts, and theories providing for sound independent work.
Knowledge of laboratory quality control and assurance procedures, principles of performance improvement, reagent management, inventory supply systems, and document control systems.
Knowledge of anatomic pathology equipment.
Ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot instrumentation.
Ability to plan, organize, set priorities, work as a team member, and effectively complete assignments.
Ability to use independent technical judgment to analyze and evaluate laboratory results.
BENEFITS:
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time, or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $34.17 - $53.75 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Medical specialties:
Schedule:
Experience:
- Histopathology: 1 year (Preferred)
License/Certification:
- HT Certification (Preferred)
- HTL Certification (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:
- Saint Louis, MO 63106: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person