Job Description

Diagnostic Technician - Histopathology

Agency

Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

Department

College Station - Histopathology

$21.63 hourly

College Station, Texas

Staff

The Diagnostic Technician in the Histopathology Section, under general supervision, trims samples of formalin-fixed animal tissue for automated processing, embeds processed tissues in paraffin, microtomes samples into thin sections, adheres sections to coverslip slides and prepares them for staining techniques. This role requires the performance of routine, repetitive tasks with considerable technical supervision and the ability to troubleshoot routine procedures.

Responsibilities

The Histopathology Section is a fast-paced, high-volume laboratory that prepares hundreds of slides daily for microscopic examination. Sample submission may include formalin fixed biopsies, organs, and small animal carcasses. This role will verify the quality of fixed tissues and stains by differentiating colors of slides. The incumbent will work in a fast-paced environment that requires attention to detail, quick problem-solving, strong communication skills, excellent time management abilities, and demonstration of manual dexterity. Timeliness, accuracy, and the ability to remain focused in a high-volume work environment are vital to this position, as well as a service mindset and strong work ethic.

Sample Prep, Sample Cataloging:

Retrieves samples, visually analyze samples for quality, and orders appropriate tests in TVMDL’s computer-based laboratory information management system (LIMS). Files and catalogs specimens, slides, paraffin blocks, and other diagnostic material for archival purposes.

Testing:

Reviews submittal forms and interprets test requests and client instructions. Visually analyzes samples and records notes on each, indicating observations, measurements, diagrams, and descriptions of each tissue. Prepares samples for national and state regulatory disease monitoring programs. Uses automated immunohistochemistry staining system for prion specimens.

Client Communication:

Communicates with clients via phone or writing to clarify test requests, discusses basic testing capabilities, and verifies sample details or patient history. Ensures confidentiality of correspondence and reports.

Quality Assurance & Safety:

Adheres to and conforms to quality assurance and safety programs and procedures. Assists in identifying incidents of non-conformance and noncompliance. Reviews quality assurance documents (Standard Operating procedures, forms, etc.). Actively participates in quality assurance and safety programs. Performs training and testing within established turnaround timesResponsible for safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals when relevant. Completes proficiency tests as assigned.

Supplies, Stock, Inventory, and Equipment:

Catalogs incoming supplies and stock inventory. Informs management when supply inventory is low, inadequate, or expired. Performs routine lab equipment maintenance such as replacing filters, replacing coverslip film, replacing and adding reagents such as alcohols, xylene, acids, buffers, and dyes in various automated machines, and lubricating microtomes. Maintains clean work areas by removing paraffin buildup, cleaning stainless steel equipment, and recycling empty jars, cardboard boxes, and paper.

Administrative Roles:

Completes and files electronic paperwork in a timely manner, including worksheets, forms, accession forms, regulatory forms, quality assurance and safety documentation, equipment maintenance forms, and logbooks. Abides by agency and state records retention and confidentiality requirements.May perform result entry and assist with routing regulatory paperwork for state and national animal health disease monitoring programs during peak testing.

Teamwork & Cooperation:

Works with colleagues in other testing sections and laboratories to coordinate testing for shared samples. Assists in training fellow technicians as needed. Fosters laboratory teamwork, cooperation, professional standards, and communications. Participates in cross-training with fellow technicians. Provides backup to fellow technicians in case of absences.

Other:

Work shall be performed with adherence to federal, state, Texas A&M University System, and TVMDL safety rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. Performs work in such a way to avoid exposing others or oneself to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods. Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Additional Position Details:

• This position is required to work onsite during normal business hours M-F 8 AM to 5 PM; however, the incumbent may have the opportunity to participate in flex scheduling, including work prior to 8 am, after 5 pm and/or on weekends.
• TVMDL is considered an essential component of the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS) and remains operational for a number of “open holidays” in which compensatory time may be earned.
• This position does not require a pre-exposure rabies vaccination series.
• TVMDL is located on the campus of Texas A&M University (TAMU). Parking permits are available from TAMU at the expense of the employee.
• This position is enrolled in TVMDL’s Salary Step Program, guaranteeing two pay increases in the first 18 months of employment for satisfactory performance.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience:

• High school graduation or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of laboratory equipment, scientific apparatus, and computer equipment.
• Ensures attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Bachelors or associates degree in biological or animal science, or any equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Two years of related experience.
• Experience working in a biological lab, veterinary clinic, animal husbandry profession, or professional role working with animal tissues.
• Beginner Microsoft Word and Excel experience.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of basic animal anatomy; basic pathology and veterinary terminology; histology equipment such as tissue processor, embedding center, microtome, automated coverslipper and automated stainer; diagnostic staining techniques.
• Skilled in the use of dissection tools; determining precise volumes, mass, weights, and concentrations.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.