Histology Assistant I

Position Overview

The Histology Assistant I is responsible for receiving the FFPE samples into the histology laboratory for preparation of DNA extraction, Immunohistochemistry (IHC), and H&E staining. This position will adhere to all safety, quality controls and procedures, while learning and performing all functions of histology, pathology, and molecular aspects needed in the laboratory.

Schedule: Friday - Monday 11:00am – 9:30pm

Essential Duties Include but are not limited to the following:

• Assist in the general upkeep of the laboratory; including, but not limited to, maintaining sufficient inventory of material, supplies, equipment, cleaning glassware, and racks.
• Perform laboratory decontamination using the appropriate materials.
• Perform basic preventative maintenance on equipment according to the manufacture specifications.
• Dispose of non-biohazard and biohazard waste.
• Re-stock laboratory and distribute supplies to work areas.
• Track samples using laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and excel spreadsheets by following standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Scan H&E slides into the slide scanning system for pathologist review.
• File and store slides and FFPE tissue blocks.
• Assist with the initial quality review of incoming specimens.
• Label FFPE blocks, slides, and DNA tubes by following SOPs.
• Perform order entry from requisition form into staining platform software.
• Prepare cases for microtomy, selecting appropriate control slides for cases.
• Record all required temperatures in the lab and take corrective actions, as needed.
• Maintain all histology equipment and corresponding documentation; including but not limited to, QC worksheets, preventive maintenance records, and day to day maintenance.
• Apply and integrate feedback in a professional manner.
• Provide and receive open and regular feedback and adjust accordingly.
• Prioritize and drive results with a high emphasis on quality.
• Display ability to work as part of a team.
• Adapt to a fast-paced environment.
• Apply strong communication skills with ability to maintain open communication with internal employees and management.
• Display high attention to detail with strong quality orientation.
• Uphold company mission and values through accountability, innovation, integrity, quality, and teamwork.
• Support and comply with the company’s Quality Management System policies and procedures.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Ability to act with an inclusion mindset and model these behaviors for the organization.
• Ability to work nights and/or weekends, as needed.
• Ability to work seated for approximately 20% of a typical working day.
• Ability to work standing for approximately 80% of a typical working day.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds for approximately 5% of a typical working day.
• Ability to grasp with both hands; pinch with thumb and forefinger; turn with hand/arm; reach above shoulder height.
• Ability to comply with any applicable personal protective equipment requirements.
• Ability to use various types of laboratory equipment; including H&E and IHC stainers, microtomes, tissue water bath, embedding station, and cover slipper.
• May perform repetitious actions using lab tools.
• Ability to use near vision to view samples at close range.
• May be exposed to hazardous materials, tissue specimens, and instruments with moving parts, lasers, heating and freezing elements, and high-speed centrifugation.
• May use various chemicals to perform duties.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
• Basic computer skills to include internet navigation and email usage.
• Demonstrated ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodation.
• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.