Histotechnician II

Natera•San Carlos, CA

2d•$41 - $51

About The Position

Performs histological preparations for Signatera Whole Exome/Genome Sequencing. The role supports the tissue whole exome/genome sequencing laboratory by preparing tissues and stained slides, performing macrodissection, and carrying out related workflow tasks. After completing training and competency requirements, the Histotechnician II may independently perform testing and prepare reagents and equipment. The position monitors case management to help ensure cases meet department turnaround-time goals, investigates sample-processing issues, participates in validations and reagent qualifications, and contributes to safety initiatives and Standard Operating Procedure updates. Depending on education and experience, the employee may serve as general supervisor and perform competencies. The role also trains staff, supports projects and departmental initiatives, troubleshoots equipment and processes, documents corrective actions, escalates protocol deviations, and provides guidance and general oversight of personnel and daily laboratory operations. Collaboration with external departments may be needed to resolve issues and streamline processes.

Requirements

An associate's degree or higher in a histotechnician program; OR an associate's degree or higher in chemical or biological sciences plus one year of histology experience and/or training within the past five years, or completion of a histotechnician training course of at least nine months; OR a bachelor's degree or higher in chemical or biological sciences, including at least 30 hours in biology and chemistry, plus one year of histology experience and/or training within the past five years, or completion of a histotechnician training course of at least nine months.
A copy of the degree is required at hire; the degree must be from the United States or equivalent to a U.S. degree.
HT (ASCP) certification required.
At least two years of related experience.
Complete HIPAA/PHI privacy, General Policies and Procedure Compliance, and security training as soon as possible and no later than the first 30 days of hire.
Ability to communicate in a team setting, with excellent written and oral interpersonal communication skills.
Positive attitude and ability to work well with others.
High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
Proficiency with Google Suites and Microsoft Office.
Thorough understanding of workflow.
Ability to train proficiently.

Responsibilities

Perform histological preparations for the tissue whole exome/genome sequencing laboratory with little to no errors.
Prepare tissues and stained slides, perform macrodissection, and support related workflow tasks.
Perform testing and prepare reagents and equipment independently after completing training and competency requirements.
Participate in validations and qualify reagents.
Monitor case management, ensure cases are processed within department turnaround-time goals, and investigate sample-processing issues.
Participate in EH&S initiatives, including safety audits.
Participate in updating and creating Standard Operating Procedures.
Depending on education and years of experience, serve as general supervisor and perform competencies.
Train staff on department procedures.
Participate in projects and initiatives started by the department or external departments.
Troubleshoot equipment and processes.
Document corrective actions when test systems deviate from established performance specifications and escalate protocol deviations to the lead or supervisor.
Provide general oversight of personnel and daily laboratory operations and guide new team members.
Engage with external departments, such as Engineering, Biodev, and Stats, to resolve issues.
Work with department leaders to streamline processes.