Histology Technologist I

Caris Life Sciences, Inc.; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Caris Life Sciences, Inc. in Phoenix is seeking a Histology Technologist I to support pathology workflows, performing embedding, sectioning, H&E staining, and IHC under direct supervision and SOPs.

The role involves documenting in the LIS, ensuring accurate labeling, operating lab equipment, and adhering to safety and quality controls. Growth opportunities include expanding competencies in QC and high-complexity testing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant lab science.
• Associate degree with required science hours and lab tech credits.
• Clinical lab training program or NAACLS accredited histology program accepted.
• 2+ years? experience if required by position? (if stated)

Responsibilities

• Embed specimens and perform specimen processing, embedding and cutting.
• Perform H&E staining and cover slipping.
• Conduct high-complexity testing including IHC staining with automatic systems and slide QC.
• Maintain accurate patient labeling and verify case IDs against blocks and slides.
• Document in LIS and logs; operate and maintain lab equipment.
• Identify issues affecting test performance and take corrective actions.
• Assist with related duties and training others.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication

Teamwork

Multi-tasking

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemical/biological/clinical or medical laboratory science

Associate degree in laboratory science or medical laboratory technology

60 semester hours with chemistry/biology prerequisites

Clinical laboratory training program recognized by ABHES/CAAHEP

Job description

**Position Summary**The Histology Technologist I will utilize the knowledge necessary to assist pathology professionals with Immunohistochemistry (IHC), specimen processing, embedding, slide preparation, microtomy, and other high-complexity procedures performed in the laboratory.This position works under direct supervision and follows standard procedures and written instructions to accomplish assigned tasks.**Job Responsibilities*** Performs routine histology tasks; embedding, cutting, H&E staining and cover slipping.* Performs high complexity testing, such as grossing, processing, immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining, utilizing automatic staining systems and QC of stained slides.* Responsible for the successful execution of laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures, and undergoes training and routine competencies for applicable tasks completed within the department.* Maintains diagnostic viability of all specimens and ensures correct patient labeling, by routinely verifying that case identification numbers, match blocks and slides during each processing step; prints labels as appropriate.* Documents in laboratory logs and the laboratory information system (LIS), as directed by standard operating procedures.* Maintains laboratory equipment and ensures that the equipment is in proper working order, and notifies leadership if maintenance and/or repairs are needed.* Demonstrates capability of identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of tests results and takes appropriate action* Assists as needed to perform other related duties and special projects to support the laboratory, as required.* Demonstrated ability to take and follow direction and to know who the resources are for their direction.* Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word, Excel, Outlook, and general working knowledge of Internet for business use.* Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-past, deadline driven environment.* Enthusiasm and dedication to meeting group objectives.* Strong willingness to learn, continuously improve and train others.* Drive for Results (Service, Quality, and Continuous Improvement) – Ensure procedures and processes are in place that lead to delivery of quality results and continually reassess their effectiveness to achieve continuous improvement.* Communication – Proficient verbal and written communication skills. Willingness to share and receive information and ideas from all levels of the organization in order to achieve the desired results.* Teamwork – Commitment to the successful achievement of team and organizational goals through a desire to participate with and help other members of the team.* Customer Service Focus – Demonstrate a focus on listening to and understanding client/customer needs and then delighting the client/customer by exceeding service and quality expectations.* Ability to work under routine and stressful situations in an accurate and timely manner.* Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures for biohazards and chemicals, as well as quality control procedures and regulations.* Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment.* Effective verbal and written communication skills. Proven attention to detail with effective organizational skills.* Effective interpersonal and team skills.* Accepts other duties as assigned.**Required Qualifications*** 1+ years' experience in an IHC/histology laboratory or two years as a Histology Technician Trainee or one year as a Histology Technician Trainee plus completion of NAACLS accredited Histology program.* Must meet high complexity requirements:* A bachelor's degree in a chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institutionOR* Associate degree in a laboratory science or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institutionOR* At least 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution that, at a minimum, includes either:* 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses OR* 24 semester hours of science courses that include:* 6 semester hours of chemistry;* 6 semester hours of biology; AND* 12 semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combinationAND* Completion of a clinical laboratory training program (this training may be included in the 60 semester hours listed above) Approved or accredited by the:* ABHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools)* CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs)OR* At least 3 months of documented laboratory training in IHC/histology high-complexity testing.**Preferred Qualifications*** HT/HTL (ASCP) certification eligible and preferred.* QIHC is strongly advised.**Physical Demands*** Will work at a computer some of the time as well as need to keep inventory and ordering records requiring the use of copiers, fax machines, and PDF scanners.* Visual acuity and analytical skill to distinguish fine detail and ability to pass a visual color discrimination test.* Manual dexterity to use common laboratory equipment and perform sterile techniques as required.* Must possess ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.* Must possess ability to perform repetitive motion.* Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.* May have exposure to high noise levels in the data center, fumes and bio-hazardous material in the lab environment. Exposure to formaldehyde, xylene, DAB, and alcohol which emit fumes. The formaldehyde, xylene, and DAB are carcinogenic.* May be required to handle blood-borne pathogens and general laboratory reagents.* Must possess ability to use a microscope for extended periods of time.* May have exposure to extreme temperatures, high noise levels, fumes, and biohazardous material/chemicals including formalin in the lab environment.**Training*** All job specific, safety, and compliance training are assigned based on the job functions associated with this employee.**Other** * This position requires periodic travel and some evenings, weekends and/or Holidays.**Conditions of Employment:** Individual must successfully complete pre-employment process, which includes criminal background check, drug screening, credit check ( applicable for certain positions) and reference verification.This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.