Lab Tech II - Clinical Lab (Histology) Tech Assistant

University of Colorado | CU Anschutz Medical Campus
School of Medicine/Department of Pathology
Lab Tech II - Clinical Lab (Histology) Tech Assistant
Position #00820090 - Requisition #32623
Job Summary:
The Clinical Laboratory (Histology) Technologist Assistant is a full time position that performs a variety of routine and non-routine technical and administrative/clerical duties in the clinical histology laboratory setting under minimal supervision. This position requires independent judgment in selection of methodologies utilized in processing specimens and in solving non-routine problems. The Clinical Laboratory (Histology) Technologist Assistant contributes to the overall efficiency of the laboratory or pathology practice in a cost effective manner by performing a variety of tasks, consisting primarily of preparing all surgical pathology specimens in preparation for pathologist review and diagnosis. Clinical Laboratory (Histology) Technologist Assistant receives all histology specimens while checking paperwork for complete and accurate clinical information. Clinical Laboratory (Histology) Technologist Assistant will then organize the specimens and assist in preparing them for processing using various methodologies, complex machinery and staining systems. This is extremely important in overall patient care. Inappropriate processing, lost specimens, or incorrectly labeled specimens can result in incorrect or unavailable diagnoses which can cause repeat procedures or life threatening treatment choices. Clinical Laboratory (Histology) Technologist Assistant must be familiar with many laboratory policies and procedures. The position also assists in maintenance of the histology area by stocking supplies, cleaning and organizing of work stations, disposal of biological waste, adherence to all compliance and operational procedure
Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and maintain surgical blocks. Stain, coverslip, label and deliver materials. Work will be reviewed as part of QA program. Logs will also be reviewed to ensure accurate entry for labels.
• Prepare and organize specimens for permanent storage. Blocks are regularly pulled from storage and problems will be readily identified. Performs computer data entry, recall, and labeling on complex pathology network (LIS).
• Take temperatures of paraffin baths, pots, ovens, cryostats, refrigerators and maintain charts of temperatures Performs routine preventative maintenance, cleaning, and minor adjustments on all lab equipment.
• Make and change staining solutions for H&E stain in frozen section areas and in Histology lab. Wash glassware and assist in identifying outdated chemicals, stock shortages and ordering supplies Prepares and examine solutions for contamination, impurities, or instability.
• Assist in cleaning and maintaining all Histology equipment including recording temperatures, and changing solutions according to the daily maintenance schedule. Observe all safety and infectious disease protocol
• Maintains archived Histological slides and blocks.
• Performs all procedures in a timely manner.
• Answer laboratory phone properly and take information correctly.
• Assists in the ordering of laboratory supplies to maintain proper inventory.
• Knowledgeable of all lab procedures and specimen submission requirements.
• Understand and use proper safety practices.
• Performs other duties as assigned

Why Join Us:
Welcome to the Department of Pathology of the University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus. The Department has grown substantially in the past 15 years, from 40 to 120 faculty in parallel with the remarkable growth of our hospital-based affiliates as well as the city and county of Denver. Our work is value driven and focused on scientific investigation, lifelong learning, and a balance of personal and professional values. In addition to a vibrant and highly competitive residency program with 25 positions, we offer 9 fellowships and participate in numerous graduate schools and the MD/PhD program of the CU School of Medicine. Our faculty and staff are diverse, and gender balanced, with women comprising 50% of our residents, Assistant, Associate and Full Professors (including those with tenure).
The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, tuition benefits, ECO pass, paid time off - vacation, sick, and holidays and more. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits-wellness.
Diversity and Equity:
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty and administrative staff. The university strives to promote a culture of inclusiveness, respect, communication and understanding. We encourage applications from women, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons within the LGBTQ+ community and all veterans. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.
Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:
Experience Only:

• Five (5) years of relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to this position.

OR
Education and Experience:

• A combination of related education and/or relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to this position equal to five (5) years

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate Degree in Biological Sciences or related field.
• Six months of experience organizing specimens and assisting in preparing them for processing using various methodologies, complex machinery and staining systems.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Basic computer skills in data entry, Word and Excel.
• Demonstrated ability to organize workload, file correctly by alphabetical and numerical order, attention to detail, and to follow precisely written procedural instructions.
• Basic medical terminology is necessary.
• Ability to listen and follow precise protocols is required.
• Must be able to recognize discrepant information as it applies to specimen receipt and decide on a course of action - i.e. contacting the administrative office, clinician, Histotechnologist or Histology Supervisor.
• Must be able to recognize potentially hazardous environments and take precautions while in the lab.
• Great attention to detail is needed as specimens arrive constantly and cannot be mixed up, misplaced, or un-necessarily delayed. .
• Use of sharp instruments is constant and various chemical solutions are used. Appropriate safety items (gloves, safety glasses, aprons, etc.) must be worn when working with wet tissues, performing special stains and in handling chemicals.
• Frequent hand washing is mandatory as biohazardous materials may be present.
• There is some lifting of boxes, large specimens, and large containers containing formalin.

How to Apply:
For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):
1. A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position
2. Curriculum vitae / Resume
3. Three to five professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email addre
Questions should be directed to: PathHR@cuanschutz.edu
Screening of Applications Begins:
Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by March 5, 2024. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.
Anticipated Salary Range:
The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as $50,692 - $58,803
The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position may be eligible for overtime compensation depending on the level.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.
Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125
ADA Statement:
The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@cuanschutz.edu.
Background Check Statement:
The University of Colorado Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.
Vaccination Statement:
CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.