Job Title
Histology Technologist
Location
RWJ - Somerset, 110 REHILL AVE, SOMERVILLE, NJ 08876
Department
Lab RWJSH
Req #
0000237138
Status
Hourly
Shift
Day
Pay Range
$35.81 - $46.40 per hour
Pay Transparency
The above reflects the anticipated hourly wage range for this position if hired to work in New Jersey. The compensation offered will depend on several factors, including educational background, skills and professional experience.
Job Overview
The Grossing Technologist is responsible for performing gross examination and dissection of small biopsies and selected surgical specimens under the supervision of a pathologist. The role includes accurately describing gross features, ensuring proper specimen triage, and maintaining compliance with laboratory safety and regulatory standards. Additional responsibilities include accessioning specimens, assisting with specimen collection procedures such as Fine Needle Aspirations, preparing cytology specimens, preparing, cutting, staining, and mounting tissue samples for diagnostic evaluation, equipment maintenance, clerical work related to specimens and slides sent out, and maintaining records of receipt and return.
Qualifications
REQUIRED
- Bachelor's degree in a biological science or related field
- Previous experience in a histology or anatomic pathology lab
- Proficiency in grossing small biopsies and familiarity with surgical pathology specimens
- Attention to detail and ability to work independently are essential
PREFERRED
- HT or HTL certification preferred
- Training in grossing techniques strongly preferred
Scheduling Requirements
- Day Shift
- Full-Time
- 40 hours per week
Essential Functions
- Receive, verify, and accession surgical and cytologic pathology specimens according to laboratory protocols
- Maintain positive identification, chain of custody, and specimen integrity throughout specimen processing and testing procedures
- Determine acceptability of specimens, resolve discrepancies with accessioning personnel, procurement dispatch technicians, nursing personnel, physicians and other personnel
- Perform gross examination and dissection of small biopsy specimens, including but not limited to: Gastrointestinal, Prostate, Breast core, Liver, kidney, and skin punch biopsies
- Gross and describe surgical specimens, such as Gallbladders, Appendices, Fallopian tubes and Placentas
- Accurately describe gross features of specimens using appropriate medical terminology
- Record weighs, dimensions, and other specimen details as required
- Perform tissue triage and ensure proper orientation and sectioning as necessary
- Ensure that gross descriptions and cassettes are labeled correctly and match requisitions
- Ensure appropriate sampling for ancillary studies, such as microbiology, flow cytometry, etc.
- Embed and cut all different types and sizes of tissue
- Perform automatic and manual special stains
- Perform IHC stains
- Maintain detailed knowledge of specimen handling protocols for frozen sections and special procedures, if applicable
- Manage workload effectively, ensuring timely processing of specimens
- Maintain morgue room and equipment in a clean and orderly condition
- Assist with specimen collection procedures, such as Fine Needle Aspirations
- Transport specimens from collection areas to the lab
- Operate, clean, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment following training and safety guidelines
- Monitor, track, and replenish reagents and supplies to ensure continuous, uninterrupted operations
- Answer telephone giving factual information according to the nature of the question and within hospital guidelines
- Work collaboratively with Pathologists, Pathologist Assistants, Residents, Histology staff and other lab personnel
- Communicate with couriers and internal departments regarding specimen pickups, issues or delays
- Properly store chemicals and dispose of waste according to chemical, biohazard, and OSHA safety procedures
- Utilize proper clinical techniques and adhere to all quality, safety, compliance, regulatory and accreditation standards
- Contribute to quality improvement initiatives within the department
- Review all policy, procedure and instrument manuals periodically to ensure compliance and maintain current knowledge of procedures
- Participate in continuing education efforts
- Perform additional tasks as requested by Chairman of Pathology or their designee
Benefits
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Medical and Prescription Drug Insurance
- Dental and Vision Insurance
- Retirement Plans
- Short & Long Term Disability
- Life & Accidental Death Insurance
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Health Care/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
- Wellness Programs
- Voluntary Benefits (e.g., Pet Insurance)
- Discounts Through our Partners such as NJ Devils, NJ PAC, Verizon, and more!
RWJBarnabas Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer