Histotechnician

Cayuga Health System•City of Ithaca, NY

2d•$28 - $39•Onsite

About The Position

A Histotechnician prepares and processes surgical and cytology specimens to produce high-quality microscopic slides for diagnosis by the pathologist. Responsibilities may also include gross examination of uncomplicated specimens and participation in postmortem examinations. This role performs standardized laboratory procedures with minimal supervision, exercises independent judgment, and contributes to high standards of quality, safety, and customer service.

Requirements

Associate or Bachelor's degree in histology or a related science, plus completion of a NYS-recognized histotechnician certificate program.
Current or eligible NYS Histotechnician license, or NYS Clinical Laboratory Technologist/Technician license with relevant experience.
Strong communication skills, attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and ability to prioritize workload.
Adheres strictly to safety protocols, including proper handling of hazardous chemicals such as formalin and xylene.

Nice To Haves

Minimum of one (1) year of histotechnician experience.

Responsibilities

Perform accurate embedding, microtomy, staining, and coverslipping of anatomic pathology specimens.
Process specimens for additional studies (e.g., special stains, immunohistochemistry, and send-out testing) as requested.
Ensure accurate specimen identification, accessioning, and specimen integrity throughout processing.
Assist with intraoperative consultations under pathologist direction.
Operate, maintain, and document preventive maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory instruments and equipment.
Identify, correct, or promptly report issues affecting test performance or result reporting; fully document corrective actions.
Comply with all laboratory, hospital, corporate compliance, infection prevention, safety, Joint Commission, New York State, and HIPAA requirements.
Maintain professional competency through required continuing education (minimum 12 CE hours annually), training activities, and mandatory education programs.
Maintain compliance with Employee Health and Occupational Medicine policies (i.e., PPD testing and Influenza vaccination).
Maintain slide, block, and specimen retention and retrieval systems in accordance with departmental policy.
Appropriately discard specimens and biohazardous materials according to laboratory policy.
Monitor and maintain inventory levels, resolve ordering issues, and participate in inventory management initiatives.
Support quality improvement activities, including validation of new processes and reagents, and policy/procedure review.
Perform gross examination of uncomplicated surgical specimens and/or assist with postmortem examinations.
Perform other duties as assigned.