Performs histology procedures used in the preparation and processing of tissue specimens for diagnostic evaluation. Processes, embeds, sections, stains, and prepares tissue specimens while maintaining quality control, equipment performance, and laboratory documentation. Collaborates with pathologists and laboratory staff to support accurate and timely diagnostic services.
Adheres to regulatory, accreditation, safety, and quality standards.
Required: Bachelor's degree including coursework meeting American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnologist certification requirements. HTL (ASCP) certification. Completion of a National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) accredited Histotechnology program or equivalent education and training.
Preferred: One (1) year of histology experience. Essential Job Functions: In addition to the essential functions of the job listed below, employees must maintain timely completion of all required education, trainings, and certifications as assigned and in accordance with Bozeman Health policies, department-specific requirements, applicable certification program and registry requirements, and other applicable regulatory requirements.
Performs routine and moderately complex histology procedures including tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, and slide preparation for pathologist interpretation. Performs routine immunohistochemical and special staining procedures according to established laboratory protocols. Evaluates specimen quality and identifies issues requiring corrective action or escalation.
Performs quality control procedures and documents results according to laboratory requirements. Maintains instrumentation and performs routine troubleshooting and maintenance activities. Participates in laboratory quality assurance and regulatory compliance activities.
Assists with onboarding, training, and competency support of new staff, students, and trainees. Ensures accurate documentation, specimen tracking, and charge capture processes. Maintains laboratory supplies, reagents, and work areas in accordance with established standards.
Collaborates with pathologists and laboratory staff to support quality patient care and efficient workflow. Other related duties and responsibilities as assigned. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Demonstrate sound judgment, patience, and maintain a professional demeanor at all times.
Exercise tact, discretion, sensitivity, and maintains confidentiality. Perform essential job functions successfully in a fast-paced environment. Learn current and new computer applications and office equipment utilized at Bozeman Health.
Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills. Analyze, organize, and prioritize work while meeting multiple deadlines. Demonstrate the Bozeman Health SPIRIT values of: Service, People, Integrity, Respect, Improvement, and Teamwork.
Schedule Requirements This role requires regular and sustained attendance. The position may necessitate working beyond a standard 40-hour workweek, including weekends and after-hours shifts. On-call work may be required to respond promptly to organizational, patient, or employee needs.
Physical Requirements Lifting (Rarely – 30 pounds): Exerting force and/or using a negligible amount of force to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects or people. Sit (Continuously): Maintaining a sitting posture for extended periods may include adjusting body position to prevent discomfort or strain. Stand (Occasionally): Maintaining a standing posture for extended periods may include adjusting body position to prevent discomfort or strain.
Walk (Occasionally): Walking and moving around within the work area requires good balance and coordination. Climb (Rarely): Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles, and the like using feet and legs; may also use hands and arms. Twist/Bend/Stoop/Kneel (Occasionally): Twisting, bending, stooping, and kneeling require flexibility and a wide range of motion in the spine and joints.
Reach Above Shoulder Level (Occasionally): Lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling objects as necessary above the shoulder, requiring strength and stability. Push/Pull (Occasionally): Using the upper extremities to press or exert force against something with steady force to thrust forward, downward, or outward. Fine-Finger Movements (Continuously): Picking, pinching, typing, or otherwise working primarily with fingers rather than using the whole hand as in handling.
Vision (Continuously): Close visual acuity to prepare and analyze data and figures and to read computer screens, printed materials, and handwritten materials. Cognitive Skills (Continuously): Learn new tasks, remember processes, maintain focus, complete tasks independently, and make timely decisions in the context of a workflow. Exposures (Rarely): Bloodborne pathogens, such as blood, bodily fluids, or tissues.
Radiation in settings where medical imaging procedures are performed. Various chemicals and medications are used in healthcare settings. Job tasks may involve handling cleaning products, disinfectants, and other substances.
Infectious diseases due to contact with patients in areas that may have contagious illnesses. *Frequency Key: Continuously (100% - 67% of the time), Repeatedly (66% - 33% of the time), Occasionally (32% - 4% of the time), Rarely (3% - 1% of the time), Never (0%). The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to the job classification. They are not to be construed as a contract of any type nor an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by individuals so classified.