IHC Technologist II

About the Job

Foundation Medicine, Inc.

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Technologist II performs routine Immunohistochemistry (IHC) testing on patient samples in a high complex clinical diagnostic laboratory using a variety of automated platforms for microscopic examination and analysis by a Pathologist.

• Performs Automated Immunohistochemistry (IHC) using both the Dako Autostainer Link 48 and Ventana Benchmark Ultra Staining Systems.
• Operates a microtome to produce slides or curls from paraffin blocks.
• Monitors oven timers to unload slides, places them on flats and distributes them to the appropriate staining platform areas.
• Handles, prepares, and unloads stainers; conducts dehydrating and cover-slipping of slides utilizing manual or automatic systems (Leica stainer).
• Prepares bulk fluids for stainers and refills as needed, keeping track of lot numbers and associating bulks to instruments after filling them.
• Performs the assigned tests or components of the test in accordance with assay run schedule, accurately, and within TAT and always in compliance with written SOPs.
• Performs QC and/or verification steps for receiving and delivering specimens for IHC staining.
• Finalizes test orders to deliver to requesting pathologist.
• Performs QC testing on control tissues and reagents.
• Performs routine H&E staining with possible other histological staining methods introduced over time.
• Maintains attention to detail for quality completion of each task.
• Sorts and labels samples by test requested while maintaining sample integrity.
• Maintains proper sample chain of custody including proper specimen handling, labeling and preparation of batch records.
• Maintains adequate stock and efficient use of supplies necessary for performing all procedures, and preparation of reagents as required.
• Performs routine scanning of stained slides with the Aperio Scan Scope.
• Ability to utilize a laboratory information management system (LIMS, MS Office esp. Excel).
• Follows written lab Standard Operating procedures for the correct handling and processing of specimens.
• Assists in maintaining and troubleshooting equipment/instrumentation.
• Effectively communicates deficiencies to appropriate personnel, including deficiencies related to specimens, paperwork, database information, and equipment.
• Ability to investigate Root Cause Analysis (RCA), write Incident/Event Report (INC), and Non-Conformance Report (NCR) under senior Technologist guidance.
• Complete projects under guidance of senior lab personnel.
• Adhere to laboratory's quality control policies (GCP, CAP/CLIA, ISO) and document all quality control activities with the ability to recognize outliers and correct them.
• Participate in biohazard, chemical, and general safety and other continuing education programs.
• Receives and transmits telephone calls and/or emails regarding patient sample processing.
• Resolve high volume email inquiry request.
• Communicate effectively in a courteous, professional manner with all levels of management, co-workers, and clients to provide quality customer service.
• Work effectively within a team-oriented department and company.
• As needed, flexes to cover scheduling gaps and is included in the on-call rotation for additional weekend and/or holiday technical support.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree, particularly a Bachelor of Science degree in biological or life sciences
• 2+ years of Histology/IHC work experience in a CAP/CLIA regulated laboratory
• 2+ years of experience working with Dako, Leica, or Ventana platforms, or manual methods
• 2+ years of microtomy experience

• Bachelor's degree, particularly a Bachelor of Science degree in biological or life sciences
• 3+ years of laboratory work experience in a CAP/CLIA regulated lab
• 3+ years of experience in Histology experience
• 3+ years of experience in Immunohistochemistry testing (manual and automated)
• Certified Histotechnician (HT) or Histotechnologist (HTL) or Qualification in Immunohistochemistry (QIHC) by American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) - Demonstrated attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
• Relevant experience in a regulated laboratory environment (such as CAP/CLIA)
• Demonstrated ability to:
  Learn new tasks in appropriate time frames;
  Prioritize and thoroughly follow up on assigned tasks;
  Understand and communicate scientific or technical information
• Basic knowledge of laboratory safety protocols
• Understanding of HIPAA and the importance of privacy of patient data
• Demonstrated experience working within tight timelines for successful execution of project and program goals
• Demonstrated experience handling multiple tasks at once
• Ability to work independently as well as collaborate with peers in a fast-paced and cross-functional results-oriented team environment
• Ability to work well under pressure while maintaining a professional demeanor
• Ability to prioritize and thoroughly follow up on…