Position Title: Histology-Autopsy Technician

Salary: $24.9477 per hour

How to Apply:

Applications are submitted online until the position is filled and/or the posting is closed. After reviewing this job announcement, please click on the link at the bottom of the page to apply online. A resume is required with the application. Further instructions on submission of documents are available in the online application. A resume may not be substituted for an application.



Minimum Requirements:
  • An associate’s degree in a Biological Science, Histology, Chemistry, or a related field.
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted.


Original college transcript(s) required at the time of application. Candidates must possess and maintain a valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License throughout employment.

It is the policy of Allegheny County that in order to receive a final offer of employment, candidates must successfully pass a background check, which includes verification of Allegheny County Real Estate Tax status and medical examinations as required for the position.


Position Summary:

Under the direction of Morgue management and the Forensic Supervisors, the Histology-Autopsy Technician is responsible for supporting all aspects of the Autopsy Suite and Histology Laboratory, including independently preparing tissue samples for microscopic examination by a pathologist and assisting the pathologist in postmortem examinations and documentation.



Overview:


Duties:

  • Performs eviscerations under the supervision of the Forensic Pathologist.
  • Maintains the chain of custody in the collection, maintenance, and transfer of specimens and evidence.
  • Prepares remains before and after postmortem examinations.
  • Completes radiology of decedents (dental and full body).
  • Maintains, programs, and operates histology equipment.
  • Prepares staining solutions, utilizes staining techniques, and conducts bone decalcifications.
  • Grosses, processes, and embeds tissue.
  • Maintains detailed computer and hand-written records.
  • Captures digital photography and x-rays, creates labels, and downloads images.
  • Ensures organization and cleanliness of autopsy suite, histology lab, and all instruments and equipment.
  • Stocks and supplies the autopsy and histology lab.
  • Transports specimens to and from outside agencies.
  • Performs other related duties as required or requested.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:

  • Digital photography.
  • Medical terminology.
  • Histology and staining processes are preferred.
  • Common medical procedures a plus.

Skill in:

  • Microsoft Office products.

Ability to:

  • Work effectively and efficiently under adverse conditions including, but not limited to, highly stressful environments, distasteful sights, odors, or circumstances, and hazards inherent to postmortem examinations.
  • Read and interpret decedent medical records.
  • Work independently and in conjunction with other Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner (ACOME) personnel and representatives of other agencies.
  • Work diverse shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Use common office machines and technologies.
  • Stand for a prolonged period of time and engage in frequent bending, stooping, and reaching.
  • Ability to lift, push, and pull one hundred (100) pounds.

Residency: Allegheny County within 1 year.
Veterans' Preference: Will be awarded to eligible candidates.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER - M/F/V/D