Position Summary

A Histotechnologist is a licensed Medical Technologist with knowledge and expertise in biology, anatomy and physiology and chemistry. The histotechnologist performs very specialized tests and procedures to ensure proper identification of biopsy and surgical tissue specimens throughout a very arduous process. This responsibility requires experience, knowledge and superior judgement.   

The tasks performed by the histotechnologist also include the aspect of grossing biopsies under the supervision of a pathologist.  The histotechnologist contributes to the overall efficiency of the pathology laboratory by performing gross examination of biopsy specimens. Additional tasks are tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, routine hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry staining of all tissue specimens.

In order for the pathologist to make a diagnosis they must rely on the competence, knowledge and experience of the histotechnologist, as they are responsible for the correct management of the patient tissue specimen.  The quality of the diagnosis is directly related to the quality of laboratory preparation.

Duties of a TH Clinical Laboratory Technologist/Technician may include but are not limited to the following:

• As assigned, assists Pathologist by grossing biopsy specimens.  Follow all appropriate protocols for all LIS systems.  Ventana Vantage patient identification barcoded system and Laboratory Information System - Copath. Ensure accurate patient identification is confirmed.
• Will paraffin and embed the following:  biopsy, routine surgical specimens, placenta, and    autopsy. Perform paraffin microtomy techniques which include the use of the microtome to produce 2-5 micron sections. Will perform all routine and special staining to include, IHC, Special Stains, Electron Microscopy and verify all to completion.  In addition will complete all routine and special requests for additional  levels, recuts; verifying each upon completion in Copath and documenting the above for QA purposes. Coverslip and case assemble, label and distribute all prepared histology sections.  Follow all appropriate protocols for all LIS systems:  Copath (accession surgicals and histology protocols), Ventana Benchmark, Ultra, Symphony, Vantage.
• Rotate responsibility for the above and perform the necessary maintenance of all laboratory instrumentation, including but not limited to the changing of instrument reagents used to process, stain and coverslip tissue.  Responsible for daily QA documentation with regard to maintenance and temperature logs.
• Follow all laboratory procedures and protocols with interpretation of such policies as necessary to ensure proper patient care and safe work practices which include using appropriate engineering and administrative controls and/or wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment. Report any discrepancies to supervisor immediately, must understand and comply with all relevant regulatory agency standards.
• Assist all Histology Technologists and Lab aides with additional tasks. 

Qualifications

Required:  

• Education level:  Associates Degree in applied science
• Proficient with hospital LIS systems.
• Experience in a Surgical Pathology Laboratory, minimum of 7 years
• Excellent organizational skills and oral and written communication skills.

Preferred:  

• Bachelor's Degree
• A strong understanding and background in a clinical laboratory setting.
• Experience with Excel, Microsoft Office, Laboratory LIS systems.
• Strong oral and communication skills
• NYS Histological Technician
• Able to lift up to 20 pounds

• Stony Brook Medicine is a smoke free environment. Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere on campus, including parking lots and outdoor areas on the premises.
• All Hospital positions maybe subject to changes in pass days and shifts as necessary. 
• This position may require the wearing of respiratory protection, which may prohibit the wearing of facial hair. 
• This function/position maybe designated as "essential." This means that when the Hospital is faced with an institutional emergency, employees in such positions may be required to remain at their work location or to report to work to protect, recover, and continue operations at Stony Brook Medicine, Stony Brook University Hospital and related facilities.

• Successfully complete pre-employment physical examination and obtain medical clearance from Stony Brook Medicine's Employee Health Services*
• Complete electronic reference check with a minimum of three (3) professional references.
• Successfully complete a 5 panel drug screen*
• Successfully complete a Background Check investigation.
• Provide a copy of any required New York State license(s)/certificate(s).