Histologist - Fort Collins Path Lab, CO

Now Hiring Certified Histologist prepares tissue specimens for microscopic examination and diagnostic interpretation by the dermatopathologist, with tasks to include special stains and/or immunohistochemistry (IHC).  The associate in this position must determine the appropriate protocols, procedures, and quality control measures to follow and must consistently adhere to those guidelines.  Additional duties may be assigned to persons employed in the Histologist position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Perform processing, embedding, cutting, staining, and coverslipping
2. Accession specimens
3. Perform special stains and/or immunohistochemistry (IHC), following protocols
4. Perform cutting of control slides
5. Match slides with requisitions, double checking for accuracy
6. Perform tasks relating to troubleshooting and quality control as required
7. May perform other duties or special projects as required or as assigned by management

LABORATORY PERSONNEL – ANNUAL CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

All lab personnel are required to complete 12 Continuing Education Units each calendar year as follows:

• 1 CEU   – Safety
• 2 CEUs – Dermpath Specific
• 9 CEUs – Any related laboratory area of interest

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

1. Knowledge of ADCS policies and procedures, including quality assurance policies and CLIA, OSHA, and other applicable government regulations and standards, as well as accreditation standards (where applicable), and the ability to actively apply that knowledge in the performance of all job duties
2. Ability to practice confidentiality and follow HIPAA regulations with patient information
3. Ability to practice professional ethics and use discretion concerning ADCS directives and proprietary information/trade secrets of the organization
4. Ability to recognize a problem and effectively problem-solve, using guidance from management when necessary
5. Knowledge of medical terminology and ability to use appropriately
6. Ability to manage time efficiently, prioritize, multi-task, and adapt to change
7. Ability to maintain high level of accuracy in all documentation and in the performance of all job duties
8. Ability to perform the essential job duties, with or without accommodation, within the scope of education and training
9. Excellent organizational skills
10. Skilled in typing/keyboarding; skilled in using computers and office equipment

PROFESSIONALISM

• Project a professional manner and image, including proper workplace attire and grooming standards; exhibit professional conduct at all times
• Adhere to ethical principles and core ADCS values; follow all ADCS policies
• Treat all staff with respect, compassion, and empathy, recognizing and respecting cultural diversity
• Demonstrate initiative and responsibility for actions
• Work as an effective team member
• Maintain a strong record for attendance and punctuality in arriving at work
• Enhance skills through continuing education

EDUCATION

High school diploma or GED required

EXPERIENCE

A minimum of one year experience in the following:

• Embedding
• Cutting
• Staining
• Special Stains and/or immunohistochemistry (IHC)
• Troubleshooting

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Current ASCP certification (HT) or registry eligible

LANGUAGE/COMMUNICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to read and interpret work-related documents such as reports, communications, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
• Ability to communicate and deal effectively and professionally with others at all times

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to apply understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND CONDITIONS  

Work is performed in a pathology laboratory and involves daily interactions with co-workers and management.  Work is very detail oriented.  Some flexibility in working hours may be required.  Occasional weekend work may be required.  Job duties may involve exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissue samples, which may pose blood-borne pathogen or other biohazard risk.       

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Work requires prolonged periods of sitting, with periods of standing and walking.  Tasks require fine finger and hand dexterity, and computer keyboarding and mouse usage.  Associate is required to reach and grasp, with occasional tasks that may require the ability to push/pull, bend, and kneel/crouch/squat.   Occasional lifting up to 25 pounds.  Position requires associate to be detail oriented and includes repetitive hand, wrist, and shoulder motion.  Normal vision required, with or without corrective lenses.  Normal hearing required.

NOTE:  This job description may not include all of the duties assigned to the associate and may be updated and modified by Management, without notice, according to the operations at any given time.