Histotechnologist (Healthcare Professional – Senior Professional)

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

2d•$65,536 - $90,120•Onsite

About The Position

The Histotechnologist position is responsible for processing all specimens received in the Histology laboratory under minimal supervision. This position requires independent judgment in selection of methodologies utilized in processing tissue specimens and in solving routine problems. Histotechnologists contribute to the overall efficiency of the laboratory or pathology practice in a cost effective manner by performing a variety of tasks, consisting primarily of preparing and Histological processing of all surgical pathology specimens in preparation for pathologist review and diagnosis. The Histotechnologist receives all histology specimens and processes them using various methodologies, complex machinery and staining systems. The Histotechnologist will then prepare the slides for Pathologist review by cutting prepared blocks of tissue utilizing complex machinery. Histotechnologists are then responsible for appropriately staining the slides whether with routine, special or immunohistochemical stains. Throughout this process the Histotechnologist is responsible for labeling, entering and tracking the progress of the specimen until it reaches the Pathologist for diagnosis. This is extremely important in overall patient care. Inappropriate processing, lost specimens or incorrectly labeled specimens can result in incorrect or unavailable diagnoses which can cause repeat procedures or life threatening treatment choices. The Histotechnologist must be familiar with all laboratory policies and procedures. The position is also responsible for the maintenance of the histology area by maintaining inventory and supplies, cleaning and organizing of work stations, disposal of biological waste, adherence to all compliance and operational procedures. This Histotechnologist will participate in the management of the histology area by maintaining inventory of supplies, cleaning and organizing of work, stations, disposal of biological waste, and adherence to all compliance and operational procedures. This position requires independent judgment in selection of methodologies utilized in processing tissue specimens and in solving routine problems. The Histotechnologist must be familiar with all laboratory policies and procedures. This position requires excellent interpersonal skills where customer service and responsibility to patient care is the priority. Additional duties include documentation per CAP guidelines, communication with pathologists/residents and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. This is not a supervisory position. However, this position will demonstrate communication of all problems and concerns to the Lead Histotechnologist and/or pertinent superiors. If there are no superiors present at the time, the employee shall handle the situation and immediately inform the Lead Histotechnologist upon arrival of the corrective actions taken.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in biological science, nutrition, nursing, health, human services, psychology, counseling, social work, or a directly related field from an accredited institution
1 year of professional level experience.
A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor’s degree on a year for year basis.
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.
Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution.
Outstanding customer service skills.
Ability to interpret complex rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and guidelines.
Ability to listen and follow precise protocols and written instructions.
Demonstrated ability to organize workload, file correctly by alphabetical and numerical order.
Must possess a professional demeanor and have experience that demonstrates problem solving skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and work independently with minimal supervision.
Detail oriented, self-motivated, a fast learner and possess excellent time management, organizational, written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to take direction and use independent judgment to coordinate and meet multiple deadlines.
Familiarity with HIPAA and security compliance requirements.

Nice To Haves

Three (3) years’ of experience in a clinical histology lab.
Immunohistochemistry Certification (QIHC, ASCP)
Experience working within an educational medical lab environment in laboratories.

Responsibilities

Determines appropriate handling and tissue processing for specimens, and priorities on requested procedures.
Utilizes appropriate equipment with precision for all histological protocols.
Performs complex staining techniques and demonstrates competency with immunohistochemical procedures to include in situ hybridization reactions.
Performs computer data entry, recall, and labeling on complex pathology network (LIS).
Performs routine preventative maintenance, cleaning, and minor adjustments on all lab equipment.
Prepares and examine solutions for contamination, impurities, or instability.
Follows procedures on all lab tests.
Examines microscopically all stained slides and controls to determine accuracy of the last test and make modifications to the procedures as needed.
Retrieves and stores specimens properly for long term storage.
Assists in maintaining accreditation standards, to include all check sheets and quality control information sheets.
Maintains archived Histological slides and blocks.
Performs all procedures in a timely manner.
Answer laboratory phone properly and take information correctly.
Assists in the ordering of laboratory supplies to maintain proper inventory.
Knowledgeable of all lab procedures and specimen submission requirements.
Understand and use proper safety practices.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Complete all UCD required training and compliance courses.