Part-Time Histotechnician — Inpatient Lab (Day Shift)

Northwestern Medicine group; Woodstock (IL); On-site; USD 39,000 - 55,000; Part time

Job summary

Northwestern Medicine is seeking a Histotechnician to join our team on a part-time basis. This 20-hour per week day shift role is essential for preparing tissue sections and supporting pathological review.

Responsibilities include performing routine histology, embedding, staining, quality control, and communicating with pathologists. Eligible candidates should have an associate degree and ASCP HT certification within 1 year, with commitment to regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Associates degree (if hired after 1/19/2025) with a combination of 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours) in biology and chemistry OR must have successfully completed 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of academic credit from an accredited college/university, with a combination of 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours) in biology or chemistry, qualifying the applicant to take the national ASCP certifying exam.
• Certification Requirement: Must obtain Histotechnician (HT) ASCP certification within 1 year of hire.
• Must meet requirements for performing high complexity testing as defined by federal licensing guidelines (CLIA) and accreditation agencies (TJC,CAP)
• Associated degree as Histotechnician.

Responsibilities

• Performs cassette-log reconciliation. Initiates appropriate programs on conventional and microwave tissue processors. Recognizes, resolves, and documents standard processor alarms.
• Embeds biopsy, routine surgical, and autopsy tissues, if applicable, per SOP. Recognizes adequacy of processing.
• Identifies and orients tissues correctly. Documents tracking and quality issues on embedding log.
• Performs and documents routine paraffin block reconciliation. Prioritizes blocks based on established guidelines.
• Operates microtome per SOP, and determines appropriate block orientation and alignment, knife angles, and settings to obtain representative sections.
• Recognizes acceptable vs. unacceptable sections; evaluates instances in which specific tissue might require a deviation from standard procedures to ensure diagnostic sections are produced.
• Appropriate documentation including specimen identification throughout all technical and clerical processes including in the laboratory information system, as well as cassettes, slides and logs, as required by regulatory compliance.
• Operates automated instrumentation to stain and coverslip microscopic slides.
• Recognizes, resolves, and documents unacceptable staining, coverslipping results and/or instrument failure.
• Performs special staining techniques using automated instrumentation and manual methods.
• Identifies appropriate positive and/or negative controls. Evaluates stains microscopically for acceptable results.
• Executes sectioning and staining of frozen tissue. Identifies and corrects staining deficiencies.
• Performs and/or assists with gross examination, dissection, and selection of representative tissue for microscopic examination for designated specimen, if applicable by site.
• Utilizes dictation equipment to document description per procedure, if applicable.
• Investigates, escalates, and documents any discrepancies or unresolved issues appropriately.
• Prioritizes technical workload based on assignment or established priorities, responds effectively to changes in workflow adjusting work to incorporate STAT requests or fluctuations in work volume.
• Exercises independent judgment in the performance of technical responsibilities.
• Practices the proficient and safe use of all equipment necessary for the completion of all duties and responsibilities within defined turn‑around times.
• May perform required Quality System responsibilities including initiating “Quality Investigation Reports”, if needed
• Reports equipment or instrument malfunctions appropriately.
• Maintains a clean and safe work environment to ensure efficient workflow and compliance with all regulatory requirements. Cleans and disinfects laboratory areas per SOP.
• Notifies coordinator promptly of any supply issues.
• May participate in Safety and Infection Control activities. Follows all required safety procedures, assumes a proactive role in laboratory safety.
• Takes initiative for personal development by attending teleconferences, educational sessions, and required meetings, etc.
• May participate in the training or teaching of students and staff in the department.
• Additional functions:
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• May be asked to assist in specific process improvement projects.
• May be asked to assist with problem resolution regarding patient specimens including root cause analysis

Education

Associates degree with biology/chemistry credits

Histotechnician HT ASCP certification within 1 year

Job description

Northwestern Medicine is seeking a Histotechnician to join our team on a part-time basis. This 20-hour per week day shift role is essential for preparing tissue sections and supporting pathological review.

Responsibilities include performing routine histology, embedding, staining, quality control, and communicating with pathologists. Eligible candidates should have an associate degree and ASCP HT certification within 1 year, with commitment to regulatory standards.