Histotechnologist

Histotechnologist

Overview

Min Rate = $32.36 / Max Rate = $47.89 *Placement is in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Units Agreement.

Certification levels for Histology Technician and Histotechnologist are hierarchal and it is assumed that the technologist level encompasses knowledge and skills of the preceding technician level. The Technologist has a general comprehension of the many factors that affect health and disease, and recognizes the importance of proper test selection, the numerous causes of discrepant test results (patient and laboratory), deviations of test results, and ethics including result confidentiality. The Technologist is responsible for accurate, correct routine and stat tissue processing, to include embedding, microtomy, mounting and staining. They will perform routine histology, as well as reagent preparation, special staining and immunohistochemical staining. The individual should have an understanding of the underlying scientific principles of laboratory testing as well as the technical, procedural, and problem solving aspects.

Responsibilities

Performs clinical and proficiency quality control proficiency tests under the direct supervision of a NYSDOH qualified Technologist, Supervisor or Director.

• Demonstrates the ability to load and operate the tissue processors.
• Orients and embeds tissue samples according to department protocol.
• Performs microtomy of paraffin blocks to produce slides of single cell thickness without wrinkles and folds.
• Demonstrates the ability to operate the automatic stainer for routine and special protocols.
• Demonstrates the ability to perform routine special stains.
• Demonstrates the ability to perform immunohistochemistry.
• Demonstrates knowledge of decalcification and tissue softening techniques.
• Demonstrates use of cryostat to produce frozen section slides of acceptable quality.
• Demonstrates the ability to troubleshoot the various staining methodologies.
• Demonstrates knowledge of specimen handling for kidney biopsies and muscle biopsies.
• Demonstrates knowledge of specimen handling for chromosome analysis and flow cytometry.
• Demonstrates proficiency in processing gynecologic and non-gynecologic cytology specimens.

Performs assigned routine equipment maintenance.

• Completes all assigned routine schedule maintenance.
• Performs daily temperature checks and records information.
• Follows troubleshooting procedures when equipment malfunctions.
• Reviews all maintenance record keeping documents and recommends corrective action when necessary.

Collection of patient specimens.

• Demonstrates knowledge of surgical pathology and cytology specimen collection and fixation requirements and rejects specimens when applicable.
• Provides appropriate materials and aids in the collection and transport of patient specimens for testing.
• Evaluates and solves problems related to collection and processing of biological specimens for analysis.

Performs proficiency testing.

• Performs satisfactorily on external quality improvement submissions.
• Completes follow up as needed on external quality improvement results.

Participates in Quality Assurance.

• Evaluates QC results before proceeding with clinical testing.
• Records QC results on the provided record keeping forms.
• Takes corrective action for QC failure and records the event on the provided record keeping forms.
• Recognizes opportunities for process improvement and offers appropriate suggestions for improvements.
• Reviews accreditation checklists. Makes recommendations to supervisor and writes supporting policies and procedures.
• Participates in the evaluation of new techniques and procedures in the laboratory.
• Participates in the introduction, investigation and implementation of new procedures and in the evaluation of new instruments.
• Evaluates statistical data, troubleshoots problems and understands validation protocols.
• Differentiates and resolves technical, instrument, physiologic causes of problems or unexpected test results.

Participates in training activities.

• Conducts competency assessments for staff histology technicians. Maintains required documentation as required by manager.
• Participates in the evaluation of the effectiveness of laboratory educational programs.
• Demonstrates the ability to train students and new employees as assigned.

Miscellaneous

• Coordinates assignments in accordance with the department schedule. Maintains a timely workflow.
• Participates in establishing technical and administrative procedures.
• Assumes assigned charge duties in the absence of the manager, to include giving direction and guidance to technical and support personnel in workflow and troubleshooting.
• Is responsible for maintaining assigned inventory.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications