EM Technician

UPMC Presbyterian is hiring a full-time EM Technician to join our Small Specialty Lab in the Department of Anatomic Pathology!

Purpose:

Ensure the safe and efficient operation of the EM / Renal Lab, while processing specimens from all age-related groups for evaluation by electron microscopy or other diagnostic procedures.

Responsibilities:

• Cut frozen sections and perform immunofluorescence staining of kidney biopsies, skin biopsies, and other tissue.

• Develop new methods and procedures under the guidance of the EM Lab Supervisor for improving patient care, diagnosis and/ or updating techniques.

• Assist in maintaining a teaching file of blocks, grids, digital image CDs and slides for resident training.

• Instruct pathology residents in techniques used in EM / Renal laboratory.

• Proceed to the Ultrasound suite or other procedure area to collect specimens which may involve direct patient contact and requires handling of biohazard tissues and fluids.

• Maintain a specimen log, all necessary records and files, a bank of frozen tissue for immunofluorescence, and tissue on hold for electron microscopy.

• Process specimens for EM including, preparation and staining of thick and ultrathin sections, scoping, digital imaging, solution making, and general lab maintenance.

• Maintain the laboratory in compliance with all CAP, OSHA, and JCAHO safety standards as defined by the regulatory agencies and the hospital safety committee.

• Access EM laboratory specimens into Client Server Plus.

• Presume on call all day.

• Evaluate and divide incoming renal specimens into portions for EM, IF, and Histology.

• Manage quality control of specimens.

Qualifications:

• B.S. degree in Chemistry or Biology with some experience in an Anatomic Pathology lab is preferred. Associate's degree in Chemistry or Biology, with at least 2 years of experience in an Anatomic Pathology lab will be considered. Equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered. Manual dexterity and good hand/eye coordination are essential. Ability to handle very tiny specimens while performing detailed techniques is necessary.12 hours of continuing education required

• Previous experience with Electron Microscopy, Specimen Grossing, or Histology preferred

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran