Lead Technologist - Histology - 6a-2:30p

Northeast-Georgia-Health-System; Gainesville (GA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Northeast Georgia Health System is seeking a Lead Histology Technologist to oversee routine histology operations and mentor staff. The role requires embedding and microtomy of surgical specimens, tissue processing, and performing special stains and IHC under pathologist direction.

The incumbent will train staff, ensure QC/compliance, and assist the Section Supervisor in administrative duties. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Associate degree is required for this histology lead role.
• ASCP certification is preferred.
• Bachelor of Science is preferred for advancement.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in histology is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversees routine operations of the Histology department.
• Instructs staff in histologic techniques as necessary.
• Embeds and microtomy of surgical specimens.
• Performs tissue processing and paraffin embedding.
• Prepares and interprets special stains and immunohistochemistry as required.
• Trains and supervises staff technologists and technicians.
• Ensures documentation supports accreditation standards.

Skills

Histology techniques

Staff training

Quality control

Communication skills

Education

Associate degree

Bachelor of Science preferred

ASCP certification preferred

Tools

Cryostat

Tissue processing equipment

Staining equipment

Job description

Job Category:Allied HealthWork Shift/Schedule:8 Hr Morning - AfternoonNortheast Georgia Health System is rooted in a foundation of improving the health of our communities.About the Role:Job SummaryThe lead technologist is responsible for the ongoing assessment of histologic and cytologic techniques and for independent decision making to ensure timely and accurate testing in the anatomical pathology area. Because of their experience and level of expertise, they are also responsible for the training and supervision of other staff technologists and technicians. The lead technologist must maintain sufficient clinical and managerial expertise to function as an assistant to the Laboratory Section Supervisor and perform those duties in the Section Supervisor’s absence. Also, the lead technologist is expected to display initiative, excellent verbal and written communication skills and be proactive in dealing with the day-to-day responsibilities and problem resolution in the department. The leadership role of the lead technologist requires this self-motivated individual to work closely with the Lab Section Supervisor, Lab Administration, and Pathologists. To be well respected by their peers and other co-workers. Employee performs clinical duties in accordance with population specific guidelines and adheres to National Patient Safety Goals as outlined in policy and procedures.Minimum Job QualificationsLicensure or other certifications: ASCPEducational Requirements: Associate degree required.Minimum Experience:Other:Preferred Job QualificationsPreferred Licensure or other certifications:Preferred Educational Requirements: Bachelor of Science preferred.Preferred Experience: 3 years experienceOther:Job Specific and Unique Knowledge, Skills and AbilitiesEmbedding of surgical specimensMicrotomy of surgical specimensTissue ProcessingSpecial Stains & ImmunohistochemistryFrozen SectionsEssential Tasks and ResponsibilitiesOversees routine operations of the Histology departmentInstructs staff in histologic techniques as necessaryResponsible for troubleshooting and repair of equipmentEmbedding and microtomy of surgical specimensEmbeds multiple pieces in same block arranging tissue in a parallel line to the longer axis of the moldArranges tissue in center of mold using the appropriate orientation dependent on tissue type ( skin, tubular specimens, bone)Faces block and cuts sections at appropriate thickness without loss of tissueCuts multiple sections in a smooth ribbon without holes, chatter or undulationsTissue processingUnderstands basic operations and different programsIs able to run a standard overnight programDemonstrates how to change processing reagents and paraffin bathsPerforms routine maintenance and daily cleaningSpecial stains and immunohistochemistryLocates and maintains control slides for each stain orderedUses proper equipment for each staining techniqueFollows correct protocol of stain ordered by pathologistFollows proper storage requirements for all reagentsKnowledgeDocumentation of records to maintain laboratory accreditation with CAP, GDHR and DNV.Consults with section supervisor on questionable laboratory results.Assists section supervisor in preparedness for inspections. Reviews all manuals as assigned.Possesses advanced knowledge of Laboratory testing as evidenced by compliance with policy, procedure and protocols. Demonstrates proficiency in reviewing and ascertaining accuracy of results and QC problems.Frozen SectionsFills out frozen section record sheetLabels slides and containers appropriately (patient name &/or assigned accession number)Stains sections correctly following the rapid H&E guidelinesCleans cryostat after each frozenPhysical DemandsWeight Lifted: Up to 20 lbs, Occasionally 0-30% of timeWeight Carried: Up to 20 lbs, Occasionally 0-30% of timeVision: Moderate, Frequently 31-65%% of timeKneeling/Stooping/Bending: Occasionally 0-30%Standing/Walking: Frequently 31-65%Pushing/Pulling: Occasionally 0-30%Intensity of Work: Frequently 31-65%Job Requires: R eading, Writing, Reasoning, Talking, KeyboardingWorking at NGHS means being part of something special: a team invested in you as a person, an employee, and in helping you reach your goals.NGHS: Opportunities start here.Northeast Georgia Health System is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will not tolerate discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, disability, ethnicity, national origin, marital status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected classification or status.