LAB TECHNICAL ASSISTANT I - ANATOMIC PATHOLOGY - WDL; FULL TIME - 1ST SHIFT

Froedtert Health•MILWAUKEE, WI

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lab Technical Assistant I supports daily operations in the Anatomic Pathology Department at Wisconsin Diagnostic Laboratories. The position performs duties across at least two assigned work benches, which may include accessioning in histology and/or cytology, case assembly, FNA and cytology processing, frozen sections, and immunohistochemistry. Work includes handling and accessioning specimens, operating and maintaining laboratory instruments, preparing and distributing slides and cases, maintaining records, managing supplies and files, and keeping the laboratory clean and safe. The role also supports competency assessments and may help train new Anatomic Pathology Assistants. This is a full-time, 1.0 FTE position at the Wisconsin Diagnostic Laboratories facility in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The schedule is first shift, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, for 40 standard hours per week.

Requirements

High school diploma.
Meet at least one of the following: two years of clinical laboratory experience, or current enrollment in or previous attendance at a post-secondary school pursuing a science- or healthcare-related field.
If qualifying through clinical laboratory experience: accurate and timely performance of assigned procedures; understanding and strict adherence to departmental and laboratory-wide policies; accurate performance and reporting of selected laboratory tests; accurate performance and documentation of quality control measures; and accurate, timely data entry and verification using a Laboratory Information System, if appropriate.
Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work well both independently and in team settings.
Ability to use good judgment, take initiative, and adapt to changes in work assignments.

Responsibilities

Complete competencies for at least two benches, such as accessioning, case assembly, FNA and cytology processing, frozen sections, or IHC.
Receive and inspect specimens for proper identification and transport condition; accession specimens, prepare paperwork and worksheets, identify STAT specimens, and handle them according to protocol.
Dispose of signed-out specimens and placentas according to laboratory procedures, using Cerner to identify specimens and following biohazard labeling and weight-limit requirements.
Operate, program, maintain, and troubleshoot tissue processors, including timely replacement or rotation of solutions and paraffin; document performance and recognize malfunctions or service needs.
Collect and sort slides in ascending order for transfer and staining.
Operate, program, maintain, and troubleshoot autostainers; change or rotate solutions, run control slides after changes, and document actions on QA/QC checklists.
Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot automated coverslippers; document actions and manually coverslip slides when equipment malfunctions.
Maintain and service instruments and equipment according to protocols, monitor and document performance, recognize malfunctions, identify repair needs, and revalidate equipment after repairs.
Label slides correctly, check them against worksheets, make necessary Cerner updates, match frozen-section and touch-prep slides with permanent slides, verify distribution times, and distribute slides to residents or pathologists.
Order, package, verify, and distribute cases and slides in time for scheduled courier pickups.
Communicate effectively with customers and coworkers, follow through on inquiries and requests, and inform a supervisor of problems or concerns.
File histology blocks and organize blocks being returned to outside or partner facilities.
Unpack and stock supplies, inventory department stock, and notify leadership of shortages.
Participate in and successfully complete position-specific competency assessments and challenges, with required documentation.
Organize and maintain the Histology slide file room; file and retrieve blocks and slides accurately, record transactions, update databases and storage logs, and prepare materials for offsite storage.
Operate a cryostat using correct settings, temperatures, alignments, and knife angles; orient and face blocks, freeze and cut tissue, produce acceptable slides within the allotted time, label and track specimens, recognize when procedures need adjustment, and clean and disinfect the instrument.
Coverslip slides manually or with an automated coverslipper while minimizing artifacts and air bubbles.
Perform individually assigned duties such as inventory, waste disposal, and stocking supplies.
Maintain a clean and safe work environment by disinfecting equipment and surfaces, documenting actions, storing and discarding samples properly, safely handling sharps, and following safe chemical and solvent practices.
Assist with competency assessments, complete required competencies, and participate in training new Anatomic Pathology Assistants as needed, including completion of training documentation.

Benefits

Paid time off.
Career pathways and career tuition assistance.
Continuing education opportunities.
Academic partnership with the Medical College of Wisconsin.
Referral bonuses.
401(k) retirement plan.
Medical, dental, vision, life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance.
Free workplace clinics.
Employee assistance programs.
Adoption assistance.
Healthy Contributions.
Care@Work.
Moving assistance.
Discounts on gym memberships, travel, and other work-life benefits.