Histotechnologist I

Abbott • Phoenix, AZ

23h • $21 - $41 • Onsite

About The Position

The Histotechnologist I works in Abbott’s Cancer Diagnostic Division in Phoenix, Arizona, performing histology laboratory procedures to produce tissue slides and supporting general laboratory operations in a CLIA/CAP-certified histopathology laboratory. The role follows applicable safety, quality-control, and standard operating procedures and learns and performs histology, pathology, and molecular laboratory functions.

The position handles fresh frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples, including tissue processing, sectioning, fixation, H&E staining, and procedures supporting DNA and RNA analysis. It also performs sample accessioning, labeling, data entry, specimen quality review, microdissection, reagent preparation, equipment maintenance, and material management. The Histotechnologist works with pathologists and laboratory staff to process specimens accurately and on time, and may assist with training team members.

The schedule is Wednesday through Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. The role may require nights, weekends, and overtime as needed. It involves use of laboratory equipment and potential exposure to hazardous materials and human tissue specimens.

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 use.
• Demonstrated ability to perform the essential duties with or without accommodation.
• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Ability to work the designated schedule and nights and/or weekends as needed.
• Ability to work overtime as needed.
• 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 use near vision to view samples at close range.
• Ability to concentrate for considerable periods while 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 prioritize, work independently and as part of a team, multitask, and adjust to changes in study designs.
• High attention to detail and strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Active ASCP Board of Certification, such as HT ASCP or HLT ASCP.
• At least 1 year of histology laboratory experience performing tissue-processing techniques, including sectioning, slide preparation, H&E staining, macrodissection, tissue embedding, and process troubleshooting. 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 procedures for DNA and RNA analysis extraction according to SOPs.
• Label accessioned samples, sample containers, and test requisition forms using the laboratory labeling system and case-specific numbers from the laboratory information system (LIS).
• Process fresh frozen tissue samples, including preparation for tumor estimation procedures, according to SOPs.
• Accession patient samples and enter sample and test-request data into the LIS.
• File and store slides and FFPE tissue blocks.
• Assist with initial quality review of incoming specimens.
• Maintain histology equipment and associated documentation, including quality-control worksheets, preventive-maintenance records, and daily maintenance records.
• Enter data into the histology portion of the information management system (IMS).
• Perform routine and nonroutine histology procedures and review work for compliance with established policies and procedures.
• Perform microdissection of unstained slides according to markings on 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 under SOPs to support timely, high-quality specimen processing.
• Receive and manage materials and reagents according to SOPs.
• Provide technical assistance to other staff as needed and assist in training team members as needed.
• Monitor and process the histology queue, completing tasks with minimal supervision.
• Prioritize work, maintain quality, and adapt to changing study designs and tasks.
• Comply with company mission and values, Quality Management System policies and procedures, attendance expectations, and applicable personal protective equipment requirements.

Benefits

• Career development with an international company.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

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