What are the responsibilities and job description for the Histotechnologist I (Tues-Sat) position at Foundation Medicine?
About The Job
The Histotechnologist I performs routine testing in FMI’s high complexity clinical diagnostic laboratory
and is responsible for receipt of patient samples as well as the preparation of samples for microscopic
examination and analysis by Pathology. This role focuses on cutting, mounting, staining, and batching
slides. This position has similar duties to the Histotechnician, but can operate more independently and
work on more complex samples given prior experience in the function.
This is a regulated position and additional information may be available from FMI Quality Assurance
regarding regulatory guidelines.
Key Responsibilities
Basic Qualifications
The Histotechnologist I performs routine testing in FMI’s high complexity clinical diagnostic laboratory
and is responsible for receipt of patient samples as well as the preparation of samples for microscopic
examination and analysis by Pathology. This role focuses on cutting, mounting, staining, and batching
slides. This position has similar duties to the Histotechnician, but can operate more independently and
work on more complex samples given prior experience in the function.
This is a regulated position and additional information may be available from FMI Quality Assurance
regarding regulatory guidelines.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate a microtome to produce slides or curls from paraffin blocks.
- Automated H&E Staining and Manual Kwik-Diff Staining.
- Prepare samples for nucleic acid extraction.
- Manage sample movement through lab facilities.
- Maintains laboratory equipment and performs all routine maintenance.
- Ensure and maintain molecular safe integrity and quality of the specimens.
- Provide inputs for updates to relevant Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and documentation
- Assist in attributing and debulking clinical and research study patient samples.
- Maintain adequate stock and efficient use of supplies necessary for performing all procedures and
- Maintain Good Documentation Practice (GDP) including proper specimen handling, labeling, and
- Participate in biohazard, chemical, and general safety and other continuing education programs.
- Work in a lab environment using chemicals and regents.
- Perform tasks for projects under guidance of senior lab employees.
- Other duties as assigned.
Basic Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent (General Education Degree) and 3 years of experience in
- OR Associates Degree in biological, life, or laboratory sciences and 2 years of experience in
- OR Bachelor’s degree in biological or life sciences and 1 year of experience in logistics, science,
- Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
- Bachelor of Science degree in a biological or life science
- Certified as a Histotechnician (HT) or a Histotechnologist (HTL) by the American Society for
- Strong interpersonal skills that include excellent skills in written and oral communication,
- Excellent computer/data entry skills
- Demonstrated attention to detail and strong organizational skills
- Demonstrated experience handling multiple tasks at once
- Ability to work independently as well as collaborate with peers in a fast-paced and crossfunctional results-oriented team environment
- Demonstrated experience working within tight timelines for successful execution of project and
- Ability to work well under pressure while maintaining a professional demeanor
- Ability to prioritize and thoroughly follow up on assigned tasks
- Ability to adapt to changing procedures, policies and work environment
- Ability to perform work in a lab environment in the presence of chemicals and reagents
- Understanding of HIPAA and importance of privacy of patient data
- Commitment to FMI values: patients, innovation, collaboration, and passion.