Histopathology Technician

Aptive•Augusta, ME

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Aptive is seeking a qualified Histopathology Technician to provide laboratory services at the VA Maine Healthcare System (Togus VA Medical Center). The selected candidate will be responsible for performing histological preparation, specimen processing, and laboratory support services for inpatient and outpatient settings.

Requirements

Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of recent Histology and Cytology experience.
Education: Bachelor's degree in a related field.
Technical Proficiency: Must be fluent in English (spoken, written, and reading) and possess the necessary technical skills for laboratory functions.
Certifications: Must meet national standards as established by Clinical & Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines.
Training Requirements: Basic Life Support (BLS): Required every two years.
VA Privacy & Information Security Training
VHA Privacy & HIPAA Training
Completion of OSHA-required Bloodborne Pathogen Training
Health & Infection Control Requirements: Candidates must provide proof of compliance for the following before starting work :
Tuberculosis (TB) Testing: Negative skin test or Quantiferon within the past year.
Immunization Records: Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR)
Hepatitis B
Varicella
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Annual Influenza vaccination (unless medically contraindicated)
COVID-19 Vaccination (Exemptions reviewed on a case-by-case basis, subject to VA testing protocols)

Responsibilities

Gross, accession, embed, cut, stain, and cover-slip tissue specimens per pathologist requests.
Prepare special stains for tissue analysis upon request.
Assist pathologists in cutting surgical, frozen sections, and potentially autopsies.
Process specimens using equipment, instruments, and techniques to ensure proper preparation for analysis.
Serve as a backup morgue assistant, assisting in autopsies, including identification, setup, body closure, and cleanup.
Ensure positive patient identification before sample processing.
Safeguard electronic and paper-based patient information following VA privacy regulations.
Independently test, evaluate, document, and report patient test results and quality control measures.
Identify, document, and resolve collection, processing, testing, and reporting issues.
Provide patient-centered care and uphold professional conduct to avoid complaints from patients and staff.
Adhere to VA, The Joint Commission, and national laboratory standards.