Histotechnologist at WVU Medicine - United Hospital Center

Role Overview

As a Histotechnologist at WVU Medicine's United Hospital Center (UHC), you will play a vital role in the accurate diagnosis and treatment of diseases. You will be responsible for preparing tissue specimens for microscopic examination by pathologists. This includes a variety of techniques such as fixation, embedding, sectioning, and staining. Your meticulous work will directly impact patient care by providing critical information for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning.

A Day in the Life

Your day as a Histotechnologist at UHC will be dynamic and multifaceted. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Specimen Receiving and Accessioning: You'll begin by receiving tissue specimens from surgical procedures, biopsies, and autopsies. You'll carefully accession each specimen, ensuring proper identification and documentation.
• Tissue Processing: Using automated tissue processors, you'll prepare tissues for embedding by removing water and replacing it with paraffin wax. This process ensures the tissue is firm enough for sectioning.
• Embedding: You'll carefully embed the processed tissues in paraffin blocks, orienting them correctly for sectioning.
• Microtomy: You'll use a microtome to cut ultra-thin sections of the embedded tissue, typically a few micrometers thick. These sections will be mounted on glass slides for staining.
• Staining: You'll perform a variety of staining techniques, including routine stains like hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), as well as special stains to highlight specific cellular structures or microorganisms.
• Immunohistochemistry (IHC): You may perform IHC procedures, which involve using antibodies to detect specific proteins in the tissue sections. IHC is crucial for identifying tumor markers and other diagnostic indicators.
• Frozen Section Preparation: In some cases, you'll prepare frozen sections for rapid diagnosis during surgery. This involves freezing the tissue and cutting sections using a cryostat.
• Quality Control: Throughout the day, you'll perform quality control checks to ensure the accuracy and reliability of your work. This includes monitoring the performance of equipment, verifying the quality of reagents, and reviewing stained slides for artifacts.
• Equipment Maintenance: You'll be responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting laboratory equipment, such as microtomes, cryostats, and stainers.
• Data Recording and Documentation: You'll meticulously record all your work, including the types of tissues processed, the staining techniques used, and any quality control issues encountered.
• Communication and Collaboration: You'll communicate with pathologists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals to ensure timely and accurate results.

Why Bridgeport, West Virginia?

Bridgeport, West Virginia, offers a blend of small-town charm and access to larger city amenities. Located in the heart of the state, Bridgeport provides a high quality of life with a lower cost of living compared to many other areas. The community is known for its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and friendly atmosphere.

Bridgeport is also conveniently located near Morgantown, home to West Virginia University, offering access to cultural events, sporting activities, and educational opportunities. The surrounding area boasts beautiful natural scenery, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor recreation.

Career Path

WVU Medicine is committed to the professional development of its employees. As a Histotechnologist, you'll have opportunities to advance your career through continuing education, certification programs, and leadership roles. Potential career paths include:

• Senior Histotechnologist: With experience and advanced training, you can advance to a senior histotechnologist role, taking on more complex tasks and providing guidance to junior staff.
• Histology Supervisor: You can also move into a supervisory role, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the histology laboratory and managing a team of histotechnologists.
• Laboratory Manager: With further education and experience, you can advance to a laboratory manager position, responsible for the overall management and administration of the laboratory.

Salary & Benefits

The estimated salary range for a Histotechnologist at WVU Medicine - UHC in Bridgeport, West Virginia is $60,000 to $85,000 per year. WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, life insurance, and disability insurance. (Note: Actual salary and benefits may vary depending on experience, qualifications, and WVU Medicine policy.)

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is a leading healthcare system in West Virginia, committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. The organization fosters a culture of teamwork, respect, and continuous learning. WVU Medicine values its employees and provides opportunities for professional growth and development. You'll be part of a dedicated team of healthcare professionals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of their patients.

How to Apply

To apply for the Histotechnologist position at WVU Medicine - UHC, please click the "Apply" button at the top of this page and complete the online application. Be sure to include your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications or licenses.

FAQ

1. What are the required qualifications for this position?

   A Bachelor’s Degree in Histotechnology or a related field, current licensure as required by the state board (WV: Medical Lab Scientist, Histologist, or trainee license), and Histotechnologist Certification (HTL) with the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) for West Virginia are required.

2. Is prior experience required?

   While not required, one year of laboratory experience in histopathology is preferred.

3. What are the key responsibilities of a Histotechnologist?

   Key responsibilities include specimen accessioning and processing, tissue embedding, cutting and staining, frozen section preparation, immunohistochemistry, quality control, and equipment maintenance.

4. What type of equipment will I be using?

   You will be operating cryostats, tissue processors, microtomes, stainers, and other laboratory equipment.

5. What is the work environment like at WVU Medicine?

   WVU Medicine fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment with a focus on patient-centered care.

6. Are there opportunities for professional development?

   Yes, WVU Medicine offers opportunities for continuing education, certification programs, and leadership development.

7. What benefits does WVU Medicine offer?

   WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, life insurance, and disability insurance.

8. What is the salary range for this position?

   The estimated salary range is $60,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. (Note: Actual salary and benefits may vary depending on experience, qualifications, and WVU Medicine policy.)

9. Where is United Hospital Center located?

   United Hospital Center (UHC) is located in Bridgeport, West Virginia.

10. How can I learn more about WVU Medicine?

    You can learn more about WVU Medicine by visiting our website at [Insert WVU Medicine Website Link Here].