Histotechnologist

The University of Kansas Health System; Kansas City, Northern (KS, KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City is seeking an experienced Histotechnologist to prepare tissue specimens, embed, section, stain, and provide high-quality slides for pathology review. The role requires instrument proficiency, problem-solving, and adherence to safety and quality standards.

Qualified candidates will have a NAACLS-accredited histotechnology program or equivalent ASCP pathway, with potential associates or bachelor’s degrees and prior histopathology experience.

Qualifications

• High school graduate with NAACLS histotechnology program or equivalent ASCP pathway.
• Associates degree with biology and chemistry and 1 year of histopathology experience.
• Bachelor's degree in related scientific field is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare tissue specimens and section, stain and image slides for microscopic evaluation.
• Operate, troubleshoot and document use of histology instruments and equipment.
• Follow safety, regulatory and hospital policies; maintain quality control records.
• Participate in proficiency testing and ensure timely results to pathologists.
• Assist in training new staff and support continuous improvement activities.

Skills

Histotechnology

Immunohistochemistry

LIS/EMR familiarity

Education

NAACLS accredited Histotechnology program

Associates degree with biology & chemistry + 1 year histopathology experience

BS in biological/chemical/physical science or medical technology (preferred)

Tools

Tissue processors

Automatic stainers

Cryostats

Coverslippers

Job description

Position Title Histotechnologist Varies Bell Hospital

Position Summary / Career Interest

Histotechnologist are members of the laboratory team who prepare tissue specimens for evaluation by preparing glass stained slides of human tissue for microscopic examination. A Pathologist then uses these complex techniques to establish and confirm a patient diagnosis. The tasks performed by the Histotechnologist require patience, mechanical ability and a strong knowledge of the biological sciences. There are five intricate steps which include: 1) Grossing/Fixation, 2) Processing, 3) Embedding, 4)Sectioning and 5) Staining; each an integral part of the histotechnologists' job. Additional duties may include Immunohistochemistry and Digital Imaging.

Responsibilities and Essential Job Functions

• Orient tissue samples during embedding process, performs microtomy, stains tissue samples, and performs manual and automated histochemical stains; may perform Immunohistochemical analysis and digital imaging.
• Maintains, operates, troubleshoots instrumentation issues and completes appropriate documentation.
• Has the ability to operate and maintain laboratory equipment including, but not limited to, tissue processors, automatic stainers, cryostats and coverslippers.
• Disposes of biohazardous materials, chemical waste, sharps and other potentially hazardous materials, according to policy and strictly adheres to safety and infection control procedures.
• Has knowledge of specimen requirements for surgical pathology processing and analysis, and understands when to direct questions to the appropriate pathologist or supervisor.
• Must apply critical thinking skills and prioritize work appropriately.
• Demonstrates technical competence with LIS, EMR, and PC.
• Participates in quality assurance and quality improvement activities.
• Participates in proficiency testing and records results in a timely manner according to laboratory policy.
• Follows regulatory, accreditation, safety and hospital standards.
• Adheres to all policies and procedures.
• Participates in inspection readiness.
• Maintains an adequate inventory of all supplies.
• Accurately prepares, labels, and stores reagents, controls, and specimens for analysis.
• Completes continuing education and submits appropriate documentation where applicable.
• Participates in training new employees.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Must be able to perform the professional, clinical and or technical competencies of the assigned unit or department.
• These statements are intended to describe the essential functions of the job and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities.
• Skills and duties may vary dependent upon your department or unit.
• Other duties may be assigned as required.

Required Education and Experience

• High School Graduate and completion of a NAACLS accredited Histotechnology program OR Associates Degree or 60 semester hours from an accredited college or university with a combination of 12 semester hours in biology and chemistry and 1 full year of recent experience in histopathology as defined by ASCP to include fixation, embedding/microtomy, staining, and laboratory operations.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Bachelor of Science Biologic science, chemistry, physical science or medical technology.

Required Licensure and Certification

• Histotechnologist (HTL) - American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP) registration (or eligible with the requirement to pass the boards within 6 months of hire. within 180 Days OR Histotechnician (HT) - American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP) registration (or eligible with the requirement to pass the boards within 6 months of hire.

Time Type: Full time

Important Information for Applicants

The health system is an equal employment opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally-protected status. See also Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. The health system provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need to request reasonable accommodations for your disability as you navigate the recruitment process, please let our recruiters know by requesting an Accommodation Request form using this link [e-mail]. Employment with the health system is contingent upon, among other things, agreeing to the health-system-dispute-resolution-program.pdf and signing the agreement to the DRP.

About The University of Kansas Health System

As part of the region’s premier academic medical center, The University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City is a world-class healthcare provider and destination for complex care and diagnosis. We are driven by our commitment to service, continuous improvement and to the highest degree of excellence. Collaboration between physicians, nurses, researchers, educators and other professionals who share their expertise leads to exciting discoveries and life-changing treatments for the people we serve.