Job Title: Histology Lab Assistant (Full-time, Permanent)

Location: San Diego, CA (Office-based)

Reports to: Histology Supervisor

This is an exciting opportunity to join a new, state-of the-art CLIA laboratory focused on accelerating biomarker and drug development. You will have the opportunity to use your entrepreneurial spirit and apply your knowledge/experience to operationalize the plan for the new laboratory. You will support a variety of global clients and have access to world-class equipment. The Histology Lab Assistant provides support to the histology laboratory, specifically with entry-level histology tasks related to specimen handling, accessioning, processing, archiving and routine preparation of microscopic slides, and generally supports to maintain laboratory instrumentation, maintenance and ensures cleanliness. Besides specific Role will include office-related administrative responsibilities including but not limited to supporting upkeep of documentation, ordering of consumables/supplies and shipping documents and samples.

LABORATORY FUNCTIONS

• Communicate with Pathologist, Histology Supervisor and other staff regarding specimen issues and documents status.
• Documents status of all queries and resolution.
• Receives and accessions all specimens into Laboratory Information System (LIS).
• Provides histology laboratory support using automation and manual methods as needed and appropriate.
• Labels slides, collates with paperwork, and submits to appropriate pathologist or laboratory staff.
• Documents appropriate tracking and logistical information.
• Monitors logs to ensure all routine cases have been completed, as directed by the Histology Supervisor.
• Records all documentation consistently and legibly.
• Maintains manual and electronic records for easy retrieval of data as necessary.
• Investigates, escalates, and documents any discrepancies noted at sample receipt and accessioning.
• Answers routine inquiries related to blocks, slides, and case status, as directed by the Histology Supervisor.
• Practices the proficient and safe use of equipment necessary for the completion of all duties and responsibilities within defined turn-around times.
• Cleans, disinfects, performs, and documents routine instrument maintenance per SOP.
• Reports equipment or instrument malfunctions appropriately. Files paraffin blocks and accompanying paperwork on a daily basis.
• Transports and archives specimens, blocks, and slides as necessary.
• Maintains a clean and safe work environment to ensure efficient workflow and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Perform minor spill cleanup per SOP when necessary.
• Monitors laboratory inventory to ensure supply levels are appropriate and adequate.
• Promptly notifies Histology Supervisor of any supply issues.
• Fosters department and laboratory teamwork through effective communication.
• Assists with orientation and training of new staff as it pertains to sample receipt and accessioning.
• Takes initiative for personal development by attending teleconferences, educational sessions, and required meetings.

OTHER FUNCTIONS

• Attends meetings and participates on committees as requested.
• Office-related administrative responsibilities including but not limited to supporting upkeep of documentation.
• Ordering of consumables/supplies and shipping documents and samples.
• Possesses high standards for organization and quality.
• Assists with departmental projects as assigned by management.
• Conducts business in a manner that puts the lives of our patients and the relationships with our clients as the highest priority.
• Performs other related duties and responsibilities as directed

Qualifications

• Associates Degree in a science related field, or equivalent work experience.
• High School Diploma/GED with equivalent work experience.
• Minimum of 2 years laboratory experience preferred.
• Proficiency with and understanding of computers.

Additional Skills and Knowledge:

• Knowledge of general medical terminology to perform various laboratory tasks and to communicate with physicians, staff, and patients.
• Knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) requirements as they apply to clinical trials.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment to perform maintenance and troubleshooting of instrumentation.
• Knowledge of safety requirements to recognize hazardous conditions.
• Ability to read and understand information about instrumentation in the laboratory field.
• Ability to read and comprehend instructions, correspondence, and memoranda.
• Ability to create routine reports and correspondence as they pertain to sample receipt and accessioning.
• Ability to interact and communicate with a variety of people, both on a one-on-one basis and in meetings and group presentations; must be able to relate to and work with ill, emotionally upset, and sometimes hostile people.
• Ability to anticipate and react calmly to emergency situations.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
• Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
• Ability to apply common-sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
• Ability to follow direction.
• Ability to think logically in order to troubleshoot, analyze situations, and make appropriate decisions.
• Proficient computer skills, including working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, e-mail systems, and web-based programs.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to produce quality work and have high standards for organization.
• Conducts business in a manner that puts the lives of our patients and the relationships with our clients as the highest priority.