Histopathology Technician (Advanced)

The Histopathology technician is responsible for the activities of the anatomic pathology (Histology) section of the laboratory. Provides authoritative advice and consultation in the Histology section as they apply to the Anatomic Pathology laboratory. Implements and maintains Histology functions and workload recording, taking into account compliance principles. Serves as the local expert for the Histology section. The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers. This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran. This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community. This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being. Major duties include but are not limited to: * Receives all requests and specimens for testing at the laboratory. * Is responsible for embedding tissue of all sizes in the proper medium and in the proper manner for correct sectioning. * Performs frozen section preparations. Frozen section preparation includes selection of pathogenic portions of the specimen; marking it for correct orientation and identification of the tumor margins, freezing the unfixed specimen; sectioning it with a cryostat microtome and staining and cover slipping the slide. * Prepares specimens for cytological exam using filter preparations and blocks. * Performs staining of tissue sections, including histochemical and other advanced staining techniques. * Assists the pathologist or pathology resident with surgical gross description and processing. * Serves as an autopsy assistant. * Adapts and develops new test and staining procedures. * Assists residents, fellows and physicians during bone marrow collection procedures by ensuring that bone marrow aspirate slides are correctly made and air-dried, biopsy specimens are placed in the appropriate fixative and specimens for flow cytometry and cytogenetics are mixed to prevent clotting. * Provides technical guidance to technicians/technologists when quality control or instrument problems occur. * Documents appropriate instrument maintenance and perform proper routine maintenance. * Assists in preparation for external reviews by Joint Commission, IG, SOARS, CAP, FDA, etc which includes completing survey questionnaires, updating and revising appropriate policies, and assuring that records are accurate and maintained appropriately. Trains staff on the inspection and accreditation rules and regulations. * Assists in maintaining appropriate levels of supplies and reagents for the efficient operation of the assigned sections (Histology). * Assists in calibration, standardization, and adjustments of instruments, verifies correct instrument operation using established procedures and quality control checks; and identifies the cause of common problems and makes simple repairs. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm Telework: Not available. Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized. Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

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