Histotechnologist - Immunohistochemistry, Full-time, Evenings

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare • Chicago, IL

4d • $34 - $46

About The Position

The Histotechnologist performs routine histology procedures in accordance with department-specific SOPs and guidelines to produce stained slides for microscopic review and diagnosis by a pathologist. The role communicates with pathologists, residents, and coordinators about specimen problems and participates in the laboratory occurrence management program. The position works Monday through Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., 40 hours per week.

The role handles specimen and block reconciliation, tissue processing and embedding, microtomy, staining, coverslipping, frozen tissue sectioning, and related documentation. It may also involve gross examination, dissection, and selection of representative tissue, depending on the site and designated specimens. The Histotechnologist evaluates quality, resolves or escalates discrepancies and technical problems, prioritizes work including STAT requests, and uses independent judgment while meeting defined turnaround times.

The Histotechnologist maintains laboratory safety, cleanliness, equipment, and inventory; carries out quality system responsibilities; participates in safety and infection control activities; and contributes to training, education, and process improvement. Other duties may be assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in biological, physical, chemical, or life sciences; medical laboratory technology; or histology.
• HTL (ASCP) certification or eligibility for HTL (ASCP) certification. Candidates who are eligible must take and pass the national certifying exam within one year of employment.

Nice To Haves

• Prior work experience in a CAP-accredited histology laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Perform cassette-log reconciliation and initiate appropriate conventional and microwave tissue processor programs; recognize, resolve, and document standard processor alarms.
• Embed biopsy, routine surgical, and autopsy tissues when applicable, following SOPs and assessing processing adequacy.
• Identify and orient tissues correctly and document tracking and quality issues on embedding logs.
• Perform and document routine paraffin block reconciliation and prioritize blocks according to established guidelines.
• Operate a microtome according to SOPs and determine block orientation, alignment, knife angles, and settings to obtain representative sections.
• Assess whether sections are acceptable and determine when tissue requires a deviation from standard procedures to ensure diagnostic sections are produced.
• Document specimen identification throughout technical and clerical processes, including in the laboratory information system and on cassettes, slides, and logs, as required for regulatory compliance.
• Operate automated instrumentation to stain and coverslip slides; perform manual methods during instrument downtime; identify, resolve, and document unacceptable results or instrument failures.
• Perform special staining techniques using automated instrumentation and manual methods, identify appropriate controls, and microscopically evaluate stains.
• Execute sectioning and staining of frozen tissue, identify and correct staining deficiencies, and document stains and quality issues.
• Perform or assist with gross examination, dissection, and selection of representative tissue for microscopic examination when applicable; resolve discrepancies and escalate issues when necessary.
• Use dictation equipment to document descriptions when applicable.
• Investigate, escalate, and document discrepancies or unresolved issues.
• Prioritize technical workload and adapt to workflow changes, STAT requests, and fluctuations in work volume.
• Exercise independent judgment and use necessary equipment proficiently and safely while meeting defined turnaround times.
• Perform required Quality System responsibilities, including initiating Quality Investigation Reports, and report equipment or instrument malfunctions appropriately.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment, clean and disinfect laboratory areas according to SOPs, and perform minor spill cleanup when necessary.
• Monitor laboratory inventory and promptly notify the coordinator about supply issues.
• Participate in safety and infection control activities and follow required safety procedures.
• Pursue personal development through teleconferences, educational sessions, and required meetings.
• Participate in training and teaching students and new staff members.
• Perform other duties as assigned and assist with process improvement projects.
• Assist with resolution of patient specimen problems, including root cause analysis.

Benefits

• Tuition reimbursement
• Loan forgiveness
• 401(k) matching
• Lifecycle benefits
• A range of benefits supporting physical, emotional, and financial well-being and protection for unexpected life events

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time