• Employment Type: Full Time
• Shift: Evenings (2nd shift)
• Hours: 12-8:30pm
• Location: Boston, MA

Under general supervision, performs primarily histology laboratory support functions with some cross training in other areas of Anatomic Pathology. Including, but not limited to final pathology slide quality assurance, case assembly and distribution, equipment maintenance, slide coverslipping, cassette triaging, maintenance of paraffin block and slide archives, and telephone coverage. Performs the technical duties of operating the laboratory computer system. Participates in other quality initiatives in Anatomic Pathology.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Slide Coverslipping: Utilizes either automated or manual methods for coverslipping glass slides in preparation for review by pathologist.
• Slide Quality Assurance: Verifies all completed slides against appropriate worksheets, checking carefully for correct patient identifiers and matching and complete tissue transfer between paraffin block and final slide. Verifies that any special requests have been completed.
• Case Assembly and distribution: Accurately prepares all slide folders to include all available slides and associated paperwork for each case. Recognizes missing case components and documents appropriately. Delivers assembled cases to assigned locations within Pathology and occasionally elsewhere within the hospital.
• Equipment Maintenance: Responsible for all maintenance procedures as specified in Standard Operating Procedures for the following instruments and their associated accessories:
  • Tissue Processors
  • H&E Staining Instruments
  • Coverslipper
  • Embedding Centers
• Equipment Function: Monitors and reports error messages or malfunctions immediately, as specified by the lab supervisor.
• Temperature Control: Monitors and records all pieces of equipment which require temperature regulation in the laboratory. Reports all out of range results immediately to the supervisor for follow up.
• Slide and Paraffin Block Archives: Maintains paraffin block files in designated locations within the department. Files blocks in a timely manner to allow for access as needed. Follows protocols for the release of blocks from the archives. Participates in some glass slide filing. Identifies when blocks or slides are acceptable for discard per regulations. Participates in block and slide discard under the direction of the lab supervisor
• Assists Histotechnologists with requests as needed in the laboratory such as collecting blocks from storage rooms or collecting specimens for processing.
• Assists Histotechnologists with the organization and cleaning of embedded blocks in preparation for microtomy.
• Inventory Maintenance: Monitors lab supplies and reagents. Notifies lab supervisor when lab any particular item is low. Receives, unpackages and stores all incoming supplies and reagents at the proper storage temperatures.
• Hazardous Waste: Follows all policies, procedures and regulatory requirements when disposing of chemical and biological waste. Inspects the hazardous waste areas for any leakage, spills or waste container overfills.
• Computer: Must be able to master the basics of the CoPath Cerner system in order entry and slide distribution functions.
• Follows patient confidentiality guidelines at all times.
• Maintains collaborative team relationships with peers and colleagues in order to effectively contribute to the working groups achievement of goals, and help foster a positive work environment.
• Performs other similar and related duties as required or directed.

JOB KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Ability to operate the technical equipment and analytical systems used to perform work accurately and proficiently, nad to maintain patient/coworker safety and comfort.
• Interpersonal skills necessary to interact with co-workers and medical staff. Communicates using professional, age-appropriate terminology and tone of voice.
• Ability to walk, sit, talk, hear, and lift up to 50 lbs from floor to 30 bench height.
• Stands for extended periods of time, up to 2 hours.

EDUCATION:

• Minimally, a level of knowledge generally obtained through completion of high school with two years of progressively more responsible laboratory experience in an accredited clinical laboratory.
• Preferably, a level of knowledge generally obtained through an Associates Degree or certificate degree in a field relating to medical laboratory sciences.

EXPERIENCE:

• Anatomic pathology laboratory experience preferred.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience, which provides proficiency in the areas of responsibility listed above, may be substituted for the above education and experience requirements.

LICENSES, ETC:

• Not applicable

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Works in a histology laboratory with frequent exposure to unpleasant odors, toxins, infectious materials and other hazardous substances.
• Possibility of cuts from knives, glass slides and cover slips.
• Required to stand for long periods.
• Occasionally required to move very heavy cart when transporting reagents.
• Occasional contacts with physicians and residents.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES STATEMENT:

Must be able to perform all essential functions of this position with reasonable accommodation if disabled.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed, as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Tufts Medical Center reserves the right to modify position duties at any time, to reflect process improvements and business necessity.

COVID-19 POLICY:

Please note that effective October 1, 2021, as a condition of employment at Tufts Medical Center, all employees and new hires must have received their complete dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, unless they have been granted an exemption.