Overview:
To perform histotechnological procedures in the laboratory including tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, staining (routine and special), slide preparation and quality control to support the diagnosis of disease by pathologists and ensure the lab meets accreditation standards and turnaround-time goals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Receive, label and prepare tissue specimens (biopsies, excisions) for histological examination.
- Perform fixation, processing (dehydration, clearing, infiltration), embedding of specimens in paraffin wax or other media.
- Perform microtomy: cut thin sections of embedded tissue (e.g., 35 m), prepare frozen sections as required.
- Mount sections on slides, perform routine staining (e.g., Haematoxylin & Eosin) and special stains, including immunohistochemistry (IHC)
- Cover-slip and label slides accurately, ensure slides are ready for pathologist review.
- Undertake quality control and quality assurance procedures for histology workflow (equipment checks, reagent validation, slide quality review).
- Maintain equipment (microtomes, cryostats, embedding centres, automated tissue processors) and troubleshoot minor technical issues; arrange for calibration/servicing as needed.
- Maintain inventory of consumables, reagents, and ancillary supplies for the histology unit; order and monitor stock usage.
- Maintain appropriate documentation, including specimen logs, processing records, staining records, slide archives, and compliance with lab information systems.
- Adhere to health & safety and infection-control standards (handling of biohazards, chemicals, proper disposal of waste).
- Collaborate with pathologists, lab technicians, and other laboratory staff to ensure smooth workflow and timely reporting.
- Participate in continuing education/training and keep current with developments in histology/histotechnology.
- Support accreditation efforts (e.g., CAP, JCI, CBAHI, ISO) and assist with audits/inspections.
- Additional duties as assigned to support the laboratory service.
Qualifications & Experience
Minimum Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Technology, Biomedical Science, Histotechnology or related field.
- Certification as a Histotechnologist or equivalent credential
- Minimum 2-4 years experience working in a histology/histopathology laboratory setting. Experience with IHC/special stains preferred.
- DHA license is mandatory
Desirable:
- Experience in a high-volume diagnostic histology laboratory.
- Experience with automated tissue processors, cryostat frozen sectioning.
- Familiarity with accreditation requirements (CAP, JCI, ISO, etc.).
- Good computer skills (laboratory information system, MS Office).
