Job Description

This position performs all the responsibilities required of the Histotechnologist/Histotechnician I as well additional technical and supervisory functions requiring a higher level of expertise.  Monitors workflow and utilization of resources for the laboratory and reports to the laboratory supervisor and or manager. Performs quality control functions and assists in the implementation and training of new employees, procedures and testing.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Understands and performs the functions of tissue processing utilizing both standard and microwave methods.
• Orients and embeds (in paraffin) processed blocks for all tissue types, according to established priority, at a monthly average rate of 40-50 blocks per hour. Able to identify tissue structures in order to embed tissue specimens in the required orientation.
• Cuts and mounts high quality tissue sections from paraffin blocks according to established priority using a standard microtome and water bath at an average monthly rate of 30-40 blocks per hour.  Able to differentiate tissue types and components, adjusting section thickness anywhere from 2 to 6 microns as specified by lab policies.  Able to troubleshoot common microtomy issues by adjusting microtome, blocks or slides.  Decalcification and hydration of the block surface applied as needed.
• Able to preserve tissues by freezing utilizing various methods including snap frozen and embedding in OCT.  Able to cut frozen tissue sections from frozen OCT blocks using a cryostat.
• Understands and can troubleshoot the routine hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain including both automated and manual methods.
• Performs special stains (including complex manual stains for muscle biopsies) using both automated and manual methods according to lab procedures.  Able to assess the quality of the control and patient slides to assure that the specials stains performed are satisfactory.
• Performs immunohistochemical, immunofluorescent and/or in situ hybridization workflows including both manual and automated platforms.
• May perform aspects of Electron Microscopy (EM) workflow
• Able to coverslip slides using both automated and manual methods.
• May utilize photographic equipment to capture images of designated staining patterns or structures for the purpose of meeting required retention requirements.
• May evaluate kidney biopsy specimens under the indirect supervision of a pathologist for the presence/absence of sufficient glomeruli.  Performs triage and preservation of tissue based on findings.
• Participates in validation of new tests/instruments or changes to existing testing protocols.
• Monitors and maintains the stock of control tissues in specific areas of oversight as assigned by the Histology Supervisor.
• Performs all assigned required maintenance and quality control procedures for instrumentation, equipment, reagents and supplies used in the laboratory as assigned.
• Accurately and diligently maintains laboratory records pertaining to workload and maintenance of procedures and instrumentation in the laboratory as assigned.
• Prepares chemical solutions, staining solutions, and buffers for laboratory procedures using scales, volumetric glassware and pH meter as needed.
• Assess supply levels and may utilize the hospital ordering systems to order and maintain adequate supplies.
• Participates in the cross training of residents, histotechnologists/histotechnicians, trainees or Lab Aides or volunteers.
• May serve as a member of the Laboratory Safety Committee.
• Participates or leads laboratory huddles or meetings.
• Works with Information Services, Biomedical Engineering and vendors to troubleshoot technical issues for computers, printers, instruments and equipment in the laboratory.
• As assigned/needed, manages the workflow to ensure that department turnaround time expectations are met and according to established procedures and standards of quality and safety.
• May assist supervisor in troubleshooting and assuring proper follow up when technical, logistical and communication problems are encountered.
• Refers appropriate matters to the Histology Supervisor or Anatomic Pathology Manager appropriately.
• Performs other similar job related duties as required or directed.

Qualifications

JOB KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Analytical abilities necessary to objectively organize and oversee the work of others, review findings and recommend sound policies and procedures required.
• Interpersonal skills necessary to provide effective leadership.
• Communication skills needed to work effectively with subordinates, peers physicians, nurses, medical students and fellows.
• Ability to work accurately and effectively in a fast paced environment.  Ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines.

EDUCATION:

• HT or HTL (ASCP) certified.  If not certified, must be eligible and certified within 1 year of employment.   Eligibility requirements:

ROUTE 1

HISTOTECHNICIAN (HT) Successful completion of a NAACLS accredited Histotechnician program

HISTOTECHNOLOGIST (HTL) Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited* college/university with a combination of 30 semester hours (45 quarter hours) in biology and chemistry (must include credit hours in both), which may be obtained within, or in addition to, the baccalaureate degree, AND successful completion of a NAACLS accredited Histotechnician or Histotechnologist program within the last five years.

ROUTE 2

HISTOTECHNICIAN (HT) - AT LEAST 60 SEMESTER HOURS (90 QUARTER HOURS) OF ACADEMIC CREDIT FROM A REGIONALLY ACCREDITED COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY, WITH A COMBINATION OF 12 SEMESTER HOURS (18 QUARTER HOURS) OF BIOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY (MUST INCLUDE CREDIT HOURS IN BOTH),  or an associate degree from a regionally accredited college/university, with a combination of 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours) of biology and chemistry (must include credit hours in both), • AND one year of full time acceptable experience in a histopathology (clinical*, veterinary, industry or research) laboratory in the U.S.,

HISTOTECHNOLOGIST (HTL) - Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited* college/university with a major in biological science or chemistry, OR a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited* college/university with a combination of 30 semester hours (45 quarter hours) in biology and chemistry (must include credit hours in both), which may be obtained within, or in addition to, the baccalaureate degree,

AND one year of full time acceptable training and/or experience in a histopathology (clinical**, veterinary, industry or research) laboratory in the U.S., Canada or an accredited laboratory** within the last five years.

 EXPERIENCE:

At least five years satisfactory work experience in an clinical Histology laboratory required with at least 1 year in a laboratory with range and volume of testing, and types of instrumentation similar to the instrumentation used at Tufts Medical Center preferred.

An equivalent combination of education and experience, which provides proficiency in the areas of responsibility listed above, may be substituted for the above education and experience requirements.

 LICENSES, ETC.:

• ASCP registration required.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Works in a laboratory setting.
• Exposure to unpleasant odors, toxins, infectious materials and other hazardous substances.
• Possibility of cuts from knives, glass slides and cover slips.
• Required to sit or stand for long periods, dependant on daily work tasks assigned.
• Able to lift up to 30lbs.  Occasionally required to move heavier cart when transporting reagents.
• Able to handle pressure to produce slides according to the expectations of the department.

Additional Information All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES STATEMENT:

Must be able to perform all essential functions of this position with reasonable accommodation if disabled.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed, as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Tufts Medical Center reserves the right to modify position duties at any time, to reflect process improvements and business necessity.

COVID-19 POLICY:

Please note that effective October 1, 2021, as a condition of employment at Tufts Medical Center, all employees and new hires must have received their complete dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, unless they have been granted an exemption.