The Histotechnologist II is responsible for sectioning quality Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) samples to be used for Immunohistochemistry (IHC), Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E), and molecular analyte extraction and testing for the Paradigm test(s). Histotechnologist II shall adhere to all safety, quality controls and procedures, while learning and performing all functions of histology, pathology and molecular aspects needed in the laboratory.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Labeling documentation of FFPE blocks, slides, and microcentrifuge tubes by following standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Scanning H&E slides into the slide scanning system for pathologist review.
Filing and storage of all slides and FFPE tissue blocks.
Assist with the initial quality review of incoming specimens.
Ability to successfully pperate general laboratory equipment such as microtome, tissue water bath, H&E autostainer, Bond II IHC stainer, coverslipper, microscope, and embedding station.
Maintain all Histology equipment and corresponding documentation (e.g., QC worksheets, preventive maintenance records, day to day maintenance, etc.).
Access to and enters data into the histology portion of the Information Management System.
Prepares IHC control slides using validated control blocks.
Prepares IHC antibody reagents, as needed.
Performs routine and/or nonroutine histology procedures, and regularly reviews work to ensure work is carried out in accordance with established policies and procedures.
Perform macrodissection of unstained slides in accordance with markings of stained slides provided by Pathologists.
Prepare reagents, solutions, and controls.
Perform and document equipment maintenance and calibration.
Assist in sample returns, as necessary.
Interact with Pathologists and laboratory staff, in accordance to SOPs, to ensure specimens are processed in a timely manner with high quality.
Responsible for materials and reagent receipt and management, following SOPs.
Provides technical assistance to other staff, as requested.
Assist in training team members, as requested.
Perform H&E staining.
Execute IHC assays with appropriate controls on submitted tissue specimens.
Contributes to the writing and reviewing of SOPs, as necessary.
Participate in process improvement studies, including development and validation of new IHC assays and protocols.
Assist in the identification of opportunities for Histology process improvements; including lab workflows and associated SOPs.
Ability to work independently; including monitoring and processing the Histology queue for various tasks that need to be performed and performing these tasks with minimal supervision.
Uphold company mission and values through accountability, innovation, integrity, quality, and teamwork.
Support and comply with the company’s Quality Management System policies and procedures.
Regular and reliable attendance.
Ability to work nights and/or weekends, when necessary.
Ability to prioritize and drive to results with a high emphasis on quality.
Ability to work as part of a team.
Ability to multi-task and rapidly switch directions to accommodate changes in study designs.
High attention to detail with strong quality orientation.
First rate interpersonal and communication skills.
Considerable amount of time using various types of laboratory equipment; including microscopes, microtomes, blades, strainers, and pipettes.
May perform repetitious actions using lab tools.
Some time spent using near vision to view samples at close range.
Some time may be spent concentrating, reading, or analyzing data, or applying scientific rules.
May be exposed to hazardous materials.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
Associates degree in Life Sciences or related field; or High School Diploma/General Education Degree and 2 years relevant experience in lieu of Associates degree.
4+ years of experience in a Histology laboratory performing tissue processing techniques; including sectioning, slide preparation, H&E staining, macrodissecting, IHC processing, tissue embedding, and process troubleshooting; Possession of active ASCP Board of Certification, e.g., HT(ASCP), HLT(ASCP), counts as 1 year of experience.
Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Demonstrated ability to perform the Essential Duties of the position with or without accommodation.
Preferred Qualifications
Associates degree in Life Sciences or related field.
Possession of active ASCP Board of Certification, e.g. HT(ASCP), HLT(ASCP).
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, creed, disability, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and any other status protected by applicable local, state or federal law. Applicable portions of the Company’s affirmative action program are available to any applicant or employee for inspection upon request.
