Job Summary

Prepares tissue specimens by treating with chemicals, slicing, mounting on glass slides and staining for microscopic examination and analysis by Pathologist.

Essential Responsibilities

• Receives, records, and accessions specimens of tissues from surgical or diagnostic cases and from autopsies.
• Fixes tissues in fixing solutions for prescribed length of time.
• Dehydrates tissue sections by immersion in alcohol baths.
• Impregnates sections with paraffin. Dehydrates, clears, and impregnates tissue using automated tissue processor as necessary. Imbeds tissues in paraffin for sectioning.
• Cuts and stains thin sections of specimens. Mounts and labels stained specimens on microscope slides.
• Performs variety of duties including tissue fixation techniques, processing, embedding, sectioning, routine and special staining, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence.
• Examines sample of stained slides with microscope to ascertain that results are satisfactory and determines when prescribed techniques and apparatus should be modified to meet special conditions and to expedite diagnosis.
• Follows established procedures for handling and processing slides.
• Prepares and maintains needed solutions and reagents.
  
  

Experience

Basic Qualifications:

• Minimum one (1) year of related experience.
  
  

Education

• Post high school coursework in biology, chemistry and training in histologic procedures.
  
  

License, Certification, Registration

• Histologic Technician Certificate
  
  

Additional Requirements

• Demonstrated knowledge of and skill in oral communication, written communication, interpersonal relations, problem solving, adaptability and teamwork.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum three (3) years as histologic technician with specialized training in special stains.
• Certified in Immunohistochemistry (IHC) by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
• Associates degree in chemistry and/or biological sciences.