Histology Laboratory Assistant

Idexx•Elmhurst, IL

About The Position

As a Laboratory Assistant in IDEXX’s Histology department, you will support the operation of veterinary diagnostic reference laboratories by helping prepare tissue samples for histology technicians and technologists and maintaining whole slide scanners. The role helps ensure digital slides and patient requisition images are suitable for the Pathology team. IDEXX provides extensive training, and prior laboratory experience is not required. This is a full-time position with day-one benefits. The work supports the histology process, in which patient specimens are received and logged, then dissected, processed, embedded, sectioned, and stained by technicians for microscopic examination. The assistant helps keep samples and casework moving accurately and promptly, including supporting remote pathologists’ access to case materials and digital slides. The role requires consistent attendance and the ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume laboratory. It involves working with and around veterinary tissue samples, as well as potential exposure to biohazards, agents known to cause zoonotic diseases, and hazardous chemicals. The schedule is Sunday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; shifts and hours may vary slightly depending on business needs.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability to consistently work the stated schedule.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume work environment.
Willingness to work with and around veterinary samples, including tissue samples.
Ability to read, understand, and follow standard operating procedures, including safety and quality procedures.
Familiarity and comfort using computers for data entry.
Ability to prioritize and multitask, and to work reliably and precisely with excellent attention to detail.
Strong customer service skills.
Ability to meet laboratory physical requirements, including standing and sitting for extended periods, phone and computer use, extended reach, lifting up to 50 pounds, and vision abilities for close work, color, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
Reliable and dependable attendance.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working in a histology laboratory.
Data entry experience.

Responsibilities

Input sample information into the laboratory database.
Stock benches with materials needed by technicians.
Operate special equipment to prepare samples for histology technicians and technologists, as needed.
Pack samples for storage.
Ensure accurate and timely delivery of casework and collateral materials to remote pathologists.
Maintain and troubleshoot virtual microscopy systems used for remote viewing and digital slide analysis.
Organize and archive pending and completed virtual microscopy cases.
Track virtual microscopy system errors.
Troubleshoot virtual microscopy system problems with pathologists, laboratories, vendors, IT, and others.
Assist with administrative tasks and other duties as required.