Histology Assistant- Diener Autopsy Technician

Job Overview: The Autopsy Technician will be responsible for completing complex and varied tasks , including but not limited to assisting Pathologists and the Medical Examiners with autopsies and external examinations, assisting with the collection and labeling of evidentiary materials including toxicology and other laboratory samples, maintaining instruments, formalin and other solutions, containers, equipment and supplies for use during autopsies, sets up supplies/equipment for use during autopsies, weighs/measures bodies and maintaining the overall appearance of the morgue and related area.

Have a working knowledge and skills to use: the autopsy electric bandsaw, Stryker saw, scales, stretchers, lifts and surgical tools. Working skills in taking muscle, skin, bone and tissue samples for later use and the procedures for the handling of contaminated specimens and biological hazardous waste.

He/she must have the ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationships with Hospital Medical Staff, Medical Examiner Staff, law enforcement officers, funeral directors and hospital personnel. Assists the Medical Examiner and Pathologist with all aspects of the postmortem examination including evisceration, dissection and restoration of the body.

The position requires a knowledge of anatomy as applied to performing autopsies. The ability to physically perform the functions of the job including the ability to lift and move decedents of various sizes and conditions, handle the psychological effects of deaths (having to perform over numerous autopsies a year, maintain the confidentiality and integrity of information, adhere to stringent sanitation and biohazard measures and communicate effectively orally and in writing.

The Autopsy Technician must be a team player and pick up additional tasks as needed in the morgue and the Anatomic Pathology Department.

Qualifications:
Required:

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent

Preferred:

• Classes in biology and related sciences preferred

Scheduling Requirements:

• Per Diem

Essential Functions:

• Assists Histology with storage and discard of specimens, blocks and slides.
• Assists the pathologist and/or medical examiner in performing autopsy procedures.
• Discards hazardous waste as required; informs appropriate parties when waste removal is required.
• Maintains Frozen section staining set-up.
• Maintains a clean and orderly autopsy suite.
• Must have good reasoning ability.
• Must have the ability to organize work and to meet deadlines.
• Performs all other duties as assigned or directed within scope of department needs and capabilities.
• Performs maintenance of tissue processing instrument.
• Performs rapid H & E and Diff-quik staining on tissue specimen slides.
• Prepares specimens by Frozen Section technique.
• Prepares tissue specimens for gross examination.
• Responsible for entering patient and specimen information into the Pathology Information system.
• Responsible for entering patient charges into Hospital Information system.
• Responsible for labeling all specimens collected during autopsy procedures and completing the corresponding forms, records and logs.
• Responsible for procurement of specimens from the OR, Special Purpose, and Same Day Surgery areas of the hospital.
• Responsible for the maintenance of equipment in the autopsy suite, submits hardware to Central Supply for cleaning and sterilization as required; submits scissors for sharpening as needed.
• Verifies specimen identification by comparing the labeled specimen containers to the requisition and transmittals.
• Verifies that required information has been provided on the requisition and that the specimen has been properly submitted and fixed.
• Willingness to take call evenings and weekends, as required.

Choosing RWJBarnabas Health!

RWJBarnabas Health is the premier health care destination providing patient-centered, high-quality academic medicine in a compassionate and equitable manner, while delivering a best-in-class work experience to every member of the team. We honor and appreciate the privilege of creating and sustaining healthier communities, one person and one community at a time. As the leading academic health system in New Jersey, we advance innovative strategies in high-quality patient care, education, and research to address both the clinical and social determinants of health.

RWJBarnabas Health aims to truly make a unique impact in local communities throughout New Jersey. From vastly improving the health of local residents to creating educational and career opportunities, this combination greatly benefits the state. We understand the growing and evolving needs of residents in New Jersey whether that be enhancing the coordination for treating complex health conditions or improving community health through local programs and education.

Equal Opportunity Employer