Histology Specialist A

General Summary/Overview

Under general supervision, handles and prepares research tissue for microscopic analysis. Maintains diagnostic viability of all specimens received. Embeds, sections and stains a wide variety of routine tissue. Performs routine special stains, coverslips slides, and accurately labels slides and blocks. Responsible for sign out of slides and blocks. Records work in laboratory log books and in DF/HCC computer system with a high level of accuracy. Maintains laboratory equipment and working solutions for stains. Identifies problems and brings to the attention of more senior staff. May assist in the orientation and training of new laboratory staff.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

1. Maintains diagnostic viability of all specimens received. Ensures correct identity of all materials received.

2. Embeds routine tissue in paraffin, orienting according to tissue type indicated on worksheet. Checks request number and verifies on worksheet. Records on grossing sheets the number of samples received and organizes blocks for sectioning.

3. Sections paraffin blocks of routine tissue using a microtome. Mounts paraffin section on microscopic slide and prints request ID numbers to slide. Verifies match of request/identifying number between blocks and slides.

4. Performs H&E and routine special staining of paraffin embedded tissue according to instructions on requisition paperwork. Verifies match of request/identifying number between slides and paperwork.

5. Coverslips prepared slides manually or utilizes automated coverslipping systems. Records in laboratory logbooks all slides and stains prepared. Logs appropriate information into the DF/HCC computer system. Verifies match of request number.

6. Organizes slides and blocks for return to submitting researchers according to requisition paperwork and worksheets.

7. Responsible for documentation of daily QA/QC charts for all laboratory equipment.

8. Identifies problems and brings to the attention of more senior laboratory staff. Troubleshoots under supervision.

9. Assists in the orienting and training of new laboratory staff.

10. Prepares and maintains working solutions for routine H&E staining on automatic stainers. Prepares and maintains working solutions of routine special stains, including maintaining acceptable working volumes.

11. Maintains individual microtome and other laboratory equipment in proper working order, following appropriate laboratory safety protocols.

12. Participates in continuing education/in-service training sessions sponsored by the department.

13. Maintains established department policies, procedures and objectives, including the areas of quality assurance, safety, environmental, infection control and related BWH Laboratory and Hospital policies.

14. Performs all other duties and responsibilities as directed.

Qualifications

* High school diploma or equivalency required. A.S., B.S. or B.A. in a biological or chemical science and/or completion of a NAACLS accredited histology technician training program highly desired.

* 1 year of experience as a histology technician.

* HT (ASCP) certification eligible.

Skills/Abilities/Competencies Required

* Must demonstrate the ability to embed, section, and stain routine tissue with acceptable quantity and quality.

* Must possess manual dexterity and good visual acuity.

* Must have good organizational skills and detail oriented.

* Ability to methodically record data with a very high level of accuracy.

* Good interpersonal skills to interact effectively with co-workers and department staff.

* Ability to identify problems and work under general supervision.

Working Conditions

* Normal laboratory environment.

* Potential cuts from microtome knives and other cutting implements. Also, may be exposed to chemical and other hazardous materials, all under controlled conditions. Minimal risk when proper protocols are observed and followed.

BWH is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.