Histotechnologist I

Abbott • Phoenix, AZ

10d • Onsite

About The Position

The Histotechnologist I performs histology laboratory procedures to produce tissue slides and supports general duties in a CLIA/CAP-certified histopathology laboratory. The role follows safety, quality control, and procedural requirements while learning and performing histology, pathology, and molecular laboratory functions. This position is based at Abbott’s Cancer Diagnostic Division in Phoenix, Arizona, and works Wednesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

The role handles fresh frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples, including tissue processing, sectioning, fixation, H&E staining, DNA and RNA extraction preparation, microdissection, specimen accessioning, and data entry. It also supports equipment maintenance, reagent management, specimen quality review and storage, and coordination with pathologists and laboratory staff. The position requires attention to quality, accurate documentation, adaptability, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Work may involve hazardous materials, human tissue specimens, repetitive laboratory tasks, and extended use of laboratory equipment.

Requirements

• Successful completion of a NAACLS-accredited Histotechnician program and at least 2 years of laboratory experience; one year of experience may be counted from program completion; or an associate degree in a scientific field and at least 2 years of laboratory experience; or a bachelor’s degree in a scientific field.
• Basic computer skills, including internet navigation and email usage.
• Ability to perform the essential duties with or without accommodation.
• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Ability to prioritize and deliver results with a strong emphasis on quality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to multitask and rapidly change direction to accommodate changes in study designs.
• High attention to detail and strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to use laboratory equipment, including microscopes, microtomes, blades, strainers, and pipettes, for extended periods.
• Ability to perform repetitive actions using laboratory tools and to view samples at close range.
• Ability to spend considerable periods concentrating, reading, analyzing data, or applying scientific rules.
• Ability to grasp with both hands, pinch with thumb and forefinger, turn with the hand or arm, and reach above shoulder height.
• Ability to work the designated Wednesday–Saturday schedule and nights or weekends as needed.

Nice To Haves

• Active ASCP Board of Certification, such as HT ASCP or HLT ASCP.
• At least 1 year of experience in a histology laboratory performing tissue-processing techniques, including sectioning, slide preparation, H&E staining, macrodissection, tissue embedding, and process troubleshooting. An active ASCP Board of Certification counts as 1 year of experience.

Responsibilities

• Label FFPE blocks, slides, and microcentrifuge tubes according to standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Perform routine sectioning, fixation, processing, and H&E staining/slide production for fresh frozen and FFPE samples according to SOPs.
• Prepare and perform DNA and RNA analysis extraction procedures according to SOPs.
• Label accessioned samples and containers and their test requisition forms using the laboratory labeling system and patient case number.
• Perform routine processing of fresh frozen tissue samples, including preparation for tumor estimate procedures.
• Accession patient samples and enter sample and test-request data into the laboratory information system (LIS).
• File and store slides and FFPE tissue blocks.
• Assist with initial quality review of incoming specimens.
• Maintain histology equipment and related quality-control, preventive-maintenance, and daily-maintenance documentation.
• Enter data into the histology section of the information management system (IMS).
• Perform routine and nonroutine histology procedures and review work for compliance with established policies and procedures.
• Microdissect unstained slides according to markings on provided stained slides.
• Prepare reagents, solutions, and controls.
• Perform and document equipment maintenance and calibration.
• Assist with sample returns as needed.
• Work with pathologists and laboratory staff to ensure timely, high-quality specimen processing in accordance with SOPs.
• Receive and manage materials and reagents according to SOPs.
• Provide technical assistance to other staff and assist with training team members as needed.
• Monitor and process the histology queue, completing required tasks with minimal supervision.
• Prioritize work and adapt to changing study designs while maintaining quality.
• Uphold company mission and values and comply with Quality Management System policies and procedures.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance and work the designated schedule; work nights, weekends, or overtime as needed.
• Comply with applicable personal protective equipment requirements.

Benefits

• Employees may qualify for free medical coverage in the Health Investment Plan (HIP) PPO medical plan in the next calendar year.
• Retirement savings plan with a high employer contribution.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Freedom 2 Save student debt program.
• FreeU education benefit, an affordable and convenient path to a bachelor’s degree.
• Career development with an international company.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree