Histotechnologist

University of Washington•Seattle, WA

1d•$64,968 - $92,964

About The Position

POSITION PURPOSE The primary purpose of this Histotechnologist (NE S SEIU 925 RT) position is to provide the appropriate environment to support outstanding biomedical research directed towards significant human health issues and nonhuman primate health and biology. In conjunction with the Washington National Biomedical Research Center (WaNBRC) Mission Statement, these values link this position to our purpose as a Center: Commitment to Research Teamwork Accountability - Productivity Communication Under the general direction of the Veterinary Pathologist, this Histotechnologist position has primary responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the Histology Laboratory (HL). The HL manager prepares specimens for routine histological examination and specialized analyses to support the clinical and diagnostic and research pathology needs for the WaNBRC. High quality glass slides are a key component of any animal research project. This position is expected to prepare high quality specimens independently and in a timely fashion as outlined in the laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs). Effective communication is essential as this position works closely with pathology staff, veterinarians and investigators within and external to the WaNBRC. An additional duty is assisting the WaNBRC’s Tissue Distribution Program with tissue acquisition as needed.

Requirements

Certified as a Histotechnologist by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists, AND a minimum of two (2) years of experience directing the operation of a laboratory, OR, Certified as a Histologic Technician by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists AND four (4) years of experience overseeing the operation of a laboratory.
Ability to communicate effectively in English, in both written and oral formats.
Demonstrated capacity to work well independently and in collaboration with a diverse staff.
Proficient in use of Microsoft Office Suite of software.
Experience/education which demonstrates comparable skills may substitute for the certification requirement.

Nice To Haves

Experience in advanced histological techniques including radiolabeled and chromogen insitu hybridization, development of new antibody protocols, immunohistochemistry protocol development and modification, and electron microscopy.
Experience in managing a multidisciplinary research and/or diagnostic laboratory.

Responsibilities

Routine Histologic Procedures (50%): Receive and accession specimens; fix, process and embed tissues. Prepare specimens by frozen section methods. Cut thin sections of specimens, mount, stain, and label slides. Perform special stain techniques; assess completed work prior to distribution. Prepare reagents, dyes and solutions in accordance with standard procedures. Maintain laboratory equipment, records, files and cases. Enter specimen information from Service Request Form. Assess the need for outside service contracts. Establish, maintain, and utilize (prepare, ship, receive, and distribute samples) such contracts as needed in consultation with the pathology staff. Assist as needed/requested during necropsy of Tissue Distribution Program and during other necropsies, specifically with processing of tissues for histologic studies. Maintain turn-around times (see below) for histology samples.
Advanced Histologic Procedures (25%): Implement, monitor, and perform quality control of specimens; determine disposition of improperly handled specimens; identify problems, take corrective action, notify supervisor of action taken and monitor follow-up solutions. Develop and assess the impact of new procedures in the laboratory. Orient pathologists and researcher to complex histologic procedures. Perform complex histologic functions such as in situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry as assigned. Meet Turn-around Time (from submission of tissue to delivery of glass slides for evaluation) Guidelines for Routine Histologic Duties Listed Above: Diagnostic Routine no decal: 1 week Diagnostic Routine with decal: 1-3 weeks Research Routine: <100 cassettes: 1 week >100 cassettes or with decal, special sections: 1-3 weeks or as determined by pathologist and histotechnologist
Administrative (25%): Implement and monitor quality assurance programs for the laboratory; establish quality control standards; identify problems and take corrective action. Determine appropriate fees; process billing; review and respond to inquiries about billing. Prepare reports of laboratory activities including workload and quality assurance. Train laboratory personnel in safe handling of biological specimens and chemicals. Develop and evaluate new laboratory handling procedures. Evaluate and select equipment for purchase; order and oversee utilization of supplies. Ensure all maintenance on instruments and equipment is completed; develop and maintain procedure manuals. Develop and maintain laboratory SOPs and safety manuals. Dispose toxic waste and wet tissue in accordance with established procedures. Maintain and develop the Access Accession database program; seek out additional training in database programming. Stay current on all required training. Perform other duties as assigned.