Histology Technologist I

Job Summary

Receive, prepare and process pathology specimens, following approved standards, policies and procedures. The ability to retrieve, communicate or otherwise present information in a written, auditory, or visual fashion is essential. The ability to work well with others and coordinate efforts, the ability to accurately judge the need for consultation, and the ability to establish and maintain professional, cooperative relationships with surgical and pathology staff are essential.

Essential Responsibilities

• Performs technical services and operations for the preparation of surgical pathology specimens which includes specimen entry ensuring accurate identification of these specimens, performing specimen handling protocols (grossing, processing, embedding, microtomy, and staining), and documentation of all related tasks.
• Performs ancillary analytical testing to include histochemical and immunohistochemical staining.
• Assists with cutting and processing frozen section slides whenever necessary.
• Troubleshoots assays and all related instrumentation. Maintains and revises as needed all related technical policies and procedures including instrument/equipment maintenance by maintaining equipment quality control and preventive maintenance.
• Performs material management functions including equipment justification/selection, inventory/supply coordination. Orders and maintains adequate and appropriate/cost-effective supplies and reagents for the service. Assists the Anatomic Pathology Manager, Business Manager, and/or Chief Financial Officer in the reconciliation and audit of invoices/bills as needed.
• Maintains service filing systems to include specimen, paraffin-blocked tissue(s), prepared slides, service records, and all related documents as established by the service.
• Performs chemical hazardous waste disposal according to current Kaiser Permanente operating policies and procedures in line with regulatory guidelines.
• Clarifies, resolves, and documents quality issues, including (but not limited to), inadequate grossing, incorrect tissue handling protocols, tissue block discordance, or other concerns regarding handling of a specimen.
• Assists in duties as deemed necessary by the Anatomic Pathology Manager, Medical Director, and/or Laboratory Director.