Medical Technologist (Histopathology Department)

Job Summary:

The Medical Technologist (Histopathology) will be responsible for handling tissue samples from receipt to reporting, ensuring accuracy, safety, and quality in all processes. The role involves specimen sorting, grossing assistance, tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, and preparing slides for microscopic examination, as well as maintaining laboratory equipment and records.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Sample Reception & Sorting

   • Receive and check specimens against the request forms.

   • Assign laboratory numbers and label samples correctly.

   • Ensure proper storage and handling to prevent contamination or degradation.

2. Grossing

   • During grossing by preparing tools, cassettes, and labels.

   • Ensure tissue pieces are placed correctly into labeled cassettes.

   • Maintain cleanliness and safety in the grossing area.

3. Tissue Processing

   • Operate and monitor tissue processors for dehydration, clearing, and paraffin infiltration.

   • Ensure correct processing schedules according to tissue type.

   • Troubleshoot equipment issues and report faults.

4. Block Making (Embedding)

   • Embed processed tissue into paraffin wax blocks using embedding centers.

   • Position specimens accurately to ensure optimal sectioning.

5. Section Cutting (Microtomy)

   • Cut thin sections (typically 3–5 microns) using a microtome.

   • Float sections on a warm water bath to remove wrinkles.

   • Mount sections onto glass slides.

6. Slide Staining

   • Perform routine Hematoxylin & Eosin (H&E) staining.

   • Carry out special stains (e.g., PAS, Reticulin) as requested.

   • Follow proper staining protocols for consistent results.

7. Coverslipping & Labeling

   • Apply coverslips to stained slides.

   • Ensure all slides are labeled accurately for reporting.

8. Reporting Support

   • Deliver prepared slides to the pathologist for microscopic examination.

   • Assist in preparing final reports and ensure they match patient details.

   • Maintain confidentiality of patient data.

9. Quality Control & Safety

   • Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) strictly.

   • Maintain clean and organized workstations.

   • Handle chemicals (formalin, xylene, alcohol) safely with PPE.

   • Participate in quality assurance programs.

10. Equipment & Stock Maintenance

    • Clean and maintain microtomes, embedding stations, and stainers.

    • Monitor and reorder laboratory supplies before they run out.

11. Report Checking

    • Ensure reports are properly cleaned, maintained, and verified.

    • Monitor and recheck all reports before release.

Requirements:

• Education: Diploma / B.Sc. in Medical Technology (Histopathology) or equivalent.

• Skills:

  • Knowledge of tissue processing, sectioning, and staining techniques.

  • Ability to operate and maintain histology equipment.

  • Understanding of laboratory safety protocols.

  • Attention to detail and accuracy.

• Other Requirements:

  • Good communication skills.

  • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

  • Commitment to confidentiality and ethical standards.