Histology Technical Specialist

Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Nashville, TN

5d

About The Position

The Histology Technical Specialist independently performs a wide variety of duties within the area of specialty, collaborating closely with the team leader, manager, and laboratory section medical director. The role investigates and develops new or modified test procedures; verifies and validates testing; and technically reviews and monitors existing procedures. In collaboration with the laboratory quality coordinator, the specialist coordinates quality control, quality assurance, and proficiency testing activities. The role may also identify staff training needs, evaluate testing personnel competency, and serve as a technical consultant and resource for team members.

This is a first-shift position in the Histopathology organization. The role supports laboratory operations by troubleshooting instruments, performing bench assignments when needed, and helping ensure quality control is performed and reviewed according to policy. The posting describes the lab as using cutting-edge technology and having floor-to-ceiling windows.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Five years of relevant work experience.
• Advanced knowledge within a professional area and basic knowledge across related areas.
• Ability to analyze data from multiple sources and resolve complex problems.
• Ability to ensure testing systems function properly and maintain analytic performance and quality control.
• Ability to collaborate with laboratory leadership and colleagues.
• Ability to develop and implement quality assurance projects and prepare reports.

Responsibilities

• Verify test procedures and establish test performance characteristics, including precision and accuracy for each test and test system.
• Evaluate test kits and equipment for potential use in the routine laboratory.
• Collect and analyze data and provide written information for protocol evaluation and test interpretation.
• Compare current methodology with new or modified test methods to assess suitability for routine testing.
• Work with the Medical Director to recommend and develop new test procedures or modify existing procedures for routine laboratory implementation.
• Develop, review, and update written protocols in the approved VUMC laboratory procedure format.
• Support department operations as needed by troubleshooting instruments, performing bench assignments, and serving as a resource to the team.
• Ensure quality control is performed and reviewed according to policy, and assist with troubleshooting out-of-range quality control.
• Coordinate quality control, quality assurance, and proficiency testing activities with the laboratory quality coordinator.
• Identify staff training needs and evaluate the competency of testing personnel as needed.
• Ensure patient test results are not reported unless test systems are functioning properly.
• Suggest, develop, and implement quality assurance projects and prepare reports as required.
• Establish an appropriate quality control program in cooperation with the section quality coordinator, team leader, and medical director.
• Establish acceptable analytic performance parameters and ensure they are maintained throughout the testing process, from specimen receipt through analysis and reporting.
• Review quality control procedures and investigate problems and alternative methods when necessary.
• Act as a technical consultant and resource for other team members.

Benefits

• The posting describes a comprehensive benefits package that may include health, disability, retirement, and/or wellness offerings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior