Histotechnologist

Job Description

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 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 WaNBRCs Tissue Distribution Program with tissue acquisition as needed.

POSITION DUTIES & 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.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

• 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.

DESIRED EXPERIENCE

• 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.

TERMS & CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of health assessment at the UWs Employee Health Clinic. The health assessment may include but is not limited to tuberculosis clearance measles clearance serum banking immunizations such as tetanus and vaccinia physical exam and/or review of work health history x-rays and/or assessment to wear positive or negative respiratory protective equipment. These health assessments will be repeated periodically during work assignment/employment.

This position may be required to work with and take specific precautions against and/or be immunized against potentially infectious agents. Specific precautions may include wearing respirators and/or protective clothing. Employee is personally responsible for following health & safety and security policies/procedures and staying current on all required training. Bloodborne pathogen training and compliance with all WaNBRC and UW security policies is also mandatory. This position involves handling nonhuman primates and human pathogenic organisms. The ability to work in an ABSL-3 containment facility may be required.

Since this position will be handling controlled substances the successful candidate will be required to pass a criminal background check.

Compensation Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Temporary or Regular

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses in our state and around the world.

UW employees bring their boundless energy creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier return they enjoy outstanding benefits opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity intellectual excitement artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race color creed religion national origin citizenship sex pregnancy age marital status sexual orientation gender identity or expression genetic information disability or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process contact the Disability Services Office at or .

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.