Histotechnician

Decypher is a leading integrator of professional, technology, and management solutions and services. We provide our services globally to Federal, Commercial, Local and State clients. Our employees are our most valuable assets and play an integral role in the success of Decypher and our clients. Working at Decypher is not a job, but a career where your talent and energy is respected, and you can personally make a difference. Decypher invites you to join our professional team. Decypher is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to diversifying its workforce (M/F/D/V).

DESCRIPTION

Decypher is seeking a qualified Histotechnician to provide support to the mission at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, TX

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Observes Mohs surgeon during surgery and utilizes a knowledge of gross and microanatomy in order to properly orient and embed tissue for tangential examination.
• Prepares a map of the surgical site and accepts the tissue from the surgeon.
• Uses non-standardized techniques and procedures to mount and cut skin, cartilage and bone.
  
  Rapidly processes complex tangentially cut frozen tissue sections maintaining exact orientation to trace the extent of the tumor.
• Utilizes knowledge of stains and chemical reactions on tissue to select appropriate (nonstandard, special) stain and procession procedure to obtain optimal tissue sections.
• Prepares all reagents for stains making adjustments as required.
• Uses a microscope to review the frozen section and accepts or rejects slides on the basis of appropriate staining, proper orientation, total representation and the presence of "histological landmarks."
• Prepares additional slides when deemed necessary.
• Assists a staff immune-dermatologist in research protocols as required.
• Performs direct and indirect immunofluorescence on skin biopsy sections.
• Prepares and stains tissue sections of skin with immunologic conjugates for direct immunofluorescence.
• Spins down blood to separate serum to perform indirect immunofluorescence.
• Maintains positive serum and positive tissue controls for this procedure.
• Prepares thinly cut tissue sections for immunoperoxidase staining from Mohs frozen tissue specimens. Utilizes standard and non-standard staining protocols to provide rapid immunoperoxidase stained sections as directed by the Mohs surgeon.
• Operates, programs, maintains and troubleshoots a variety of equipment (e.g. microtomes, cryostats, tissue processors, strainers, knife sharpeners).
• Conducts quality control procedures on equipment and reagents and maintains proper records.
• Utilizes knowledge of accrediting/regulatory agency requirements for safety and quality control to insure adherence by the laboratory.
• Orders and maintains adequate stock levels of laboratory supplies, equipment, and reagents.
• Evaluates new stains and provides recommendations to supervisor.
• Trains resident and fellow physicians in the proper mapping, orienting and preparation of tangentially cut frozen tissue sections. Utilizes a knowledge of histological concepts and Mohs micrographic surgery in training.
• Performs a variety of general support duties. Determines, organizes and maintains Mohs micrographic surgery and immunofluorescence log books.
• Organizes and maintains microscopic slide file of Mohs micrographic surgery cases.
• Prepares and transfers report and specimens to Pathology Department for review.
• Organizes and maintains patient's photographs, biopsy reports, and surgical summaries in "convenience" charts.
• The technician is expected to work independently to maintain the specimen identity and integrity in the treatment of skin cancers, often on highly cosmetically sensitive areas of the face. Approach to work as a profession that requires ongoing life-long continuing education and constant refinement of skills is essential for success in this position.
• The process of Mohs surgery often requires additional demands beyond typical business hours. The technician is expected to be flexible and remain available after hours until the cases are completed or the submitted specimens have been completely dispositioned and a safe stopping point has been reached. Coordination with the Mohs surgeon is mandatory prior to leaving the work center for the day.
• Maintains a safe, orderly, clean working area exercising proper aseptic technique. Work area is to be completely cleaned at the end of every shift and readied for the next day of cases.
• Performs other duties as assigned. May be required to travel to and work at SAMMC as directed.
• At direction of supervising dermatologic surgeon, CP will train other technicians in the key aspects of Mohs histopathology.

Qualifications

Degree/Education: Associate's degree in Histotechnology, medical technology, biological science or related field OR a certificate of successful completion of a NAACLS accredited Histotechnician program required.

Certifications in addition to Basic Life Support: American Heart Association or American Red Cross BLS certifications preferred.

Experience: one year experience within the last three years as a MOHs Histotechnician.

Board Certification: None. Must complete 10 CEU's in approved laboratory education program annually.

Licensure/Registration: None

Skills and Knowledge: The HCP shall meet the following skills and knowledge requirements:

• Knowledge in uses of aseptic technique and principles of infection control.
• Knowledge of fundamentals of anatomy and physiology, medical terminology.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, written and oral communication skills are essential.