Histology Technician Lead

Tennessee Oncology, one of the nation’s largest, community-based cancer care specialists, is home to one of the leading clinical trial networks in the country. Established 1976 in Nashville, Tennessee Oncology’s mission remains unchanged: To provide access to high-quality cancer care and the expertise of clinical research for all patients, at convenient locations within their community and close to their home. Our growing network of physicians and locations is based on this mission. Tennessee Oncology is committed to advancing both the science of detection and targeted treatments, and to making these advances available to every patient. We believe caring for cancer patients is a privilege.

Why Join Us? We are looking for talented and highly-motivated individuals who demonstrate a natural desire to support the meaningful work of community oncologists and the patients we serve.

Job Description:

The Histology Technician is responsible performing immunohistochemical stains and all other special procedures as required. Cuts, embeds, and stains histology specimens.  Follows proper guidelines for safe handling of blood, body fluids, tissues and hazardous chemicals, properly recording lab testing, quality control and assurance, maintaining appropriate inventory levels of reagents and supplies.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Processes and prepares bone marrow, fluids and tissue samples for microscopic examination which may include grossing, embedding, microtomy, routine and special stains, IHC and cover slipping slides.
• Prepares and processing peripheral blood smears for pathology review.
• Performs QC on slides before sending to Pathologists.
• Maintains quality assurance on equipment in the Histology Lab and ensures order and cleanliness.
• Performs recuts, special stains, immunohistochemical stains requested by pathologist to help confirm diagnosis.
• Prepares solutions and stains and is responsible for chemical control including inventory inspections and updates.
• Performs and documents routine maintenance and corrective actions of instruments and equipment used in the histology lab.
• Adheres to established quality control policies and procedures to ensure proper functioning of equipment and reagents.
• Resolve procedural problems encountered in the daily workflow with a minimum of consultation.
• Maintains proper records of laboratory testing and results as described in the policy and procedures manual.
• Adheres to all state and federal compliance requirements.
• Maintains sufficient inventory of laboratory supplies for operations.
• Understanding of LIS utilized in pathology; including ordering test, rejecting test, reviewing and approving results.

• In the role of Lead Technician:

• Assists with the processing, ordering performing and reporting of testing as approved
• Acts as the liaison for the department staff
• Telephone Triage
• Serves as the point of contact for department information, new testing procedures and other changes in the department operation
• Assists in training of new staff and maintenance of required training and competency documentation

• Performs all other related duties as needed and deemed by supervisor/manager.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Ability to make independent decisions, process information accurately, manage multiple projects simultaneously and be organized.
• Ability to accurately pipette and maintain sterile conditions as required.
• Ability to perform routine maintenance as defined by the manufacturer on equipment.
• Ability to collaborate with Pathologist, Lab Director, and Pathology Reference Lab and subsidiaries when required.
• Effective oral and written communication skills and excellent interpersonal skills required. 
• Strong computer skills especially with Excel and Word spreadsheets. 
• Knowledge of principles and techniques of laboratory testing procedures and practice.
• Knowledge of medical terminology.
• Demonstrates understanding of proper quality control procedures, use of control materials, and documentation of QC results and corrective actions.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Current State of Tennessee Medical Laboratory Technician or Technologist License preferred
• HT, HTL with ASCP certification or registry eligible, certification REQUIRED within 12 months of hire
• High School diploma and sufficient experience to prepare and pass the certification as a HT with ASCP
• Maintains appropriate continuing education for certification and licensure.
• At least two years’ experience in a high complexity laboratory or resear