About the Job

The Histotechnologist II 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 troubleshoots on-hold cases and collaborates with the wider Laboratory Operations team to move samples effectively through the workflow. The Histotechnologist II also focuses on cutting, mounting, staining, and batching slides. This position can operate more independently and work on more complex samples than the Histotechnologist I given deeper experience in the function.

This is a regulated position and additional information may be available from FMI Quality Assurance regarding regulatory guidelines.

Regular onsite work at a designated FMI location is an essential function of this role.

Key Responsibilities

Answer questions, troubleshoot equipment and facilitate interdepartmental projects.

Train new employees to perform tasks relevant to their position.

Operate a microtome to produce slides or curls from paraffin blocks.

Prepare and initiate samples for nucleic acid extraction.

Manage sample movement through lab facilities.

Ensure and maintain molecular safe integrity and quality of the specimens.

Author and edit relevant Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and documentation to ensure regulatory compliance and reflect process improvements.

Perform data entry with onsite pathologists including sample quality assessments and measurements.

Perform routine scanning of stained slides with the Aperio ScanScope.

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 preparation of reagents as required.

Maintain proper documentation including proper specimen handling, labeling, and quality control measures.

Perform quality control testing where required.

Participate in biohazard, chemical, and general safety and other continuing education programs.

Own aspects of projects under guidance of senior lab personnel.

Work in a lab environment using chemicals and regents.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

Associate's Degree

2+ years of professional histology experience in a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) / College of American Pathologists (CAP)-certified laboratory

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor of Science degree in a biological or life science

Certified as a Histotechnician (HT) or a Histotechnologist (HTL) by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)

Strong interpersonal skills that include excellent skills in written and oral communication, collaboration, and problem solving

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 cross-functional results-oriented team environment

Demonstrated experience working within tight timelines for successful execution of project and program goals

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 laboratory environment and 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

Foundation Medicine, Inc. (FMI) began with an idea - to simplify the complex nature of cancer genomics, bringing cutting-edge science and technology to everyday cancer care. Our approach generates insights that help doctors match patients to more treatment options and helps accelerate the development of new therapies. Foundation Medicine is the culmination of talented people coming together to realize an important vision, and the work we do every day impacts real lives.

Foundation Medicine is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, age, or national origin. Further, qualified applicants will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability or protected veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. See also FMI's EEO Statement and EEO is the Law and Supplement . If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know by completing this form . (EOE/AAP Employer)