Histology Lab Assistant - Dermatology Full time Days

Benefits

• $10,000 Tuition Reimbursement per year ($5,700 part-time)
• $10,000 Student Loan Repayment ($5,000 part-time)
• $1,000 Professional Development per year ($500 part-time)
• $250 Wellbeing Fund per year($125 for part-time)
• Matching 401(k)
• Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage
• Life insurance
• Annual Employee Salary Increase and Incentive Bonus
• Paid time off and Holiday pay

Pay Starting at: $16.51+ per hour based on experience

Northwestern Medicine is powered by a community of colleagues who are purpose-driven and committed to our mission to deliver world-class care. Here, you'll work alongside some of the best clinical talent in the nation leading the way in medical innovation and breakthrough research with Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

We recognize where you've been, and we support where you're headed. We celebrate diverse perspectives and experiences, which fuel our commitment to equity and culture of service.

Grow your career with comprehensive training and development opportunities, mentorship programs, educational support and student loan repayment.

• Create the life you envision for yourself with flexible work options, a Reimbursable Well-Being Fund and a Total Rewards package that support your physical, mental, emotional and financial well-being.
• Make a difference through volunteer opportunities we offer in local communities and drive inclusive change through our workforce-led resource groups.

From discovery to delivery, come help us shape the future of medicine.

Description

The Histology Lab Assistant reflects the mission, vision, and values of Northwestern Memorial, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

This role provides support to the histology and surgical pathology laboratory with entry-level histology tasks related to specimen processing and routine preparation of surgical and autopsy microscopic slides. This position is responsible for communication with pathologists, residents, and coordinators regarding specimen problems. The position is also required to participate in the laboratory occurrence management program.

Responsibilities:

• Provides histology laboratory support using automation and manual methods to stain and coverslip microscopic slides. 
• Labels slides, collates with paperwork, and submits to appropriate pathologist or resident. 
• Documents appropriate tracking information.  Submits slides and protocols to appropriate resident, pathologist, or staff.
• Reviews protocol files for Gross Only specimens and/or outstanding paperwork.  Monitors logs to ensure all routine H&E slides are submitted.
• Performs and documents basic embedding procedures for routine surgical and autopsy tissues.
• Performs and documents routine paraffin block reconciliation.  Prioritizes blocks based on established guidelines.
• Records all documentation consistently and legibly.  Maintains manual and electronic records for easy retrieval of data as necessary.  Investigates, escalates, and documents any discrepancies appropriately.
• Answers routine inquiries related to blocks, slides, and case status.  Direct inquiries regarding technical information to the appropriate laboratory staff.
• Practices the proficient and safe use of all equipment necessary for the completion of all duties and responsibilities within defined turn-around times (i.e., tissue processor, embedding center, automated stainer and coverslipper, etc).
• Cleans, disinfects, performs, and documents routine instrument maintenance per SOP.    Reports equipment or instrument malfunctions appropriately.
• Files paraffin blocks on a daily basis.
• Transports specimens, blocks, and slides as necessary.
• Maintains a clean and safe work environment to ensure efficient workflow and compliance with all regulatory requirements.  Cleans and disinfects laboratory areas per SOP.  Perform minor spill cleanup per SOP when necessary.
• Monitors laboratory inventory in the front histology area to ensure supply levels are appropriate and adequate.  Promptly notifies coordinator of any supply issues.
• Fosters department and laboratory teamwork through effective communication.
• Participates in Safety and Infection Control activities.
• Assists with orientation and training of new staff in front histology area.
• Takes initiative for personal development by attending teleconferences, educational sessions, and required meetings, etc.

Additional Functions                                                                                 

• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Performs histology procedures including microtomy, cryotomy, or special stains with successful completion of competency testing and prior managerial approval.
• Accessions specimens into the Laboratory Information System.  Label requisitions and specimen containers accurately.
• Assists in specific process improvement projects.

Qualifications

Required:

• A.S. degree in the biological, life sciences, medical laboratory technology, or other related field. 
• Computer experience with keyboard proficiency. 
• Familiarity with medical terminology.

Preferred:             

• B.S. degree in the biological, life sciences, medical laboratory technology, or other related field.
• Prior work experience in laboratory support or health related experience.

Equal Opportunity

Northwestern Medicine is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.