Histology Technician I

Next Move Healthcare•Peoria, IL

23h•Onsite

About The Position

A leading healthcare organization is seeking a Histology Technician I to join its Pathology Laboratory team in Peoria, Illinois. The Histology Technician will prepare tissue specimens for microscopic examination by pathologists, with primary responsibilities including embedding and microtomy. Depending on experience and competency, the technologist may also assist with special stains, frozen sections, reagent preparation, quality assurance, and other histology procedures. This is an excellent opportunity for either an experienced Histology Technician or a qualified new graduate looking to develop specialized skills in a dedicated hospital-based histology laboratory.

Requirements

Associate degree in a science-related field
Eligibility to meet applicable histotechnology education and certification requirements
Completion of, or ability to complete, a NAACLS-accredited Histotechnology program as required
ASCP Histotechnician certification, or ability to obtain certification within one year of employment
Strong attention to detail and commitment to specimen accuracy
Knowledge of laboratory safety and infection-control procedures
Strong organizational and analytical skills
Ability to work effectively with pathologists, technologists, laboratory assistants, and other clinical personnel
Ability to work the assigned daytime schedule and rotating Saturday coverage

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in a science-related field
Current ASCP Histotechnician certification
Completion of a NAACLS-accredited Histotechnology program
One or more years of Histology Technician experience
Experience with tissue embedding and microtomy
Experience performing special stains
Previous hospital pathology or histology laboratory experience

Responsibilities

Prepare fixed and frozen tissue specimens for microscopic examination
Embed tissue specimens according to established laboratory protocols
Cut tissue sections using microtomy techniques
Float and mount tissue sections onto glass slides
Perform staining procedures and special stains based on training and competency
Evaluate staining quality and recognize technical issues requiring correction
Receive, identify, log, and release tissue specimens according to laboratory procedures
Verify patient and specimen information for accuracy
Assist pathologists with gross examinations and specimen preparation as assigned
Assist with autopsy-related specimen preparation when needed
Prepare laboratory reagents and solutions according to established formulas and procedures
Maintain appropriate quantities of reagents and laboratory supplies
Catalogue, organize, and file pathology slides
Prepare specimens for outside consultation and process returned results
Perform routine maintenance on histology instruments and equipment
Document equipment maintenance and quality-assurance activities
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment
Follow universal blood and body-fluid precautions and chemical safety procedures
Participate in laboratory quality-improvement initiatives
Assist with training students, laboratory assistants, and new employees as assigned
Maintain knowledge of current histology practices, techniques, and laboratory standards