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Histotechnologist (#MGBZ04)



Summary Statement

An incumbent in this class prepares tissue and organ samples for microscopic study.

Nature and Scope

An incumbent in this class reports to an administrative and/or technical superior and is responsible for independently preparing tissue and organ samples for examination and diagnosis by a Medical Examiner or other pathologist. 

Essential Functions

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.
  • Prepares sections of human tissue for examination, using basic and special tissue processing techniques to fix, dehydrate, infiltrate with wax, cut, and mount tissue specimens received from autopsies.
     
  • Prepares slides of specimens using appropriate stain to enhance visibility under microscopes.  Prepares special stains, as required, to detect the presence or absence of certain substances or diseases in a specific specimen.
     
  • Uses and maintains a variety of manual and computerized laboratory equipment and tools.
     
  • Examines slides under microscope to ensure tissue preparation meets laboratory requirements.
     
  • Maintains a variety of logs and charts to keep track of specimens received and processed and of chemicals used and to record quality assurance data.
     
  • Files and stores all slides and blocks of tissue samples for permanent retention and possible recuts for repeat of original stains or for additional stains.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

The intent of the listed knowledge, skills and abilities is to give a general indication of the core requirements for all positions in the class series; therefore, the KSA’s listed are not exhaustive or necessarily inclusive of the requirements of every position in the class.

  • Knowledge of theory and practice of histotechnology.
  • Knowledge of histological stains and staining methods and procedures.
  • Knowledge of tissue handling and preservation techniques and procedures.
  • Knowledge of chemicals and chemical solutions used in tissue preparation.
  • Knowledge of quality assurance procedures.
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and practices.
  • Ability to detect any uncharacteristic or abnormal outcomes and take appropriate action.
  • Ability to mix special solutions and stains.
  • Ability to maintain simple records.

 

Job Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Histotechnologist
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

  1. Possession of a Bachelors degree or higher in Medical Technology OR certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists as a Clinical Laboratory Technologist.

CLASS:
MGBZ04
EST:
7/1/1996
REV:
FORMERLY JOB CLASS:
77825