Cytology-Histology Prep Tech (4652)

Position Summary:

The Cytology–Histology Prep Tech plays an essential role in supporting the pathology laboratory by accessioning anatomic pathology specimens, preparing and staining nongynecologic cytology samples, and performing key clerical and workflow functions. This position helps ensure accurate specimen handling, timely processing, and consistent quality control in accordance with established laboratory standards and regulatory requirements. Working as part of a collaborative laboratory team, the Prep Tech supports the daily operational needs of both cytology and histology services while contributing to organized, efficient workflows. Strong attention to detail, effective multitasking skills, and comfort working in a highly regulated laboratory environment are essential for success in this role.

Key Responsibilities:

- Accession and properly label all anatomic pathology specimen types, ensuring accuracy and compliance with laboratory protocols.

- Process and stain non gynecologic cytology specimens, maintaining proper handling, documentation, and quality standards.

- Perform Pathology office/clerical duties including sending cases out, receiving returned cases, filing slides, tracking correspondence, and maintaining cytology and QC logs.

- Enter and manage HPV co-test and reflex test orders, including maintaining standing order requirements and ensuring accurate documentation in lab systems.

- Respond to phone calls, provide assistance to clinicians or staff, and support coordination of pathology case flow.

- Support daily workflow in cytology and histology by assisting with documentation, specimen tracking, and quality assurance functions.

Qualifications

Licenses and Certifications Required:

- None

Educational Requirements:

- High School Diploma or equivalent is preferred.

Experience Requirements:

- Previous experience is preferred, but not required.

Special Skills or Training Requirements:

- Computer experience required.

Physical Requirements:

Work requires frequent standing, walking, and repeated hand movements involved in specimen preparation, slide handling, and computer entry. Occasional lifting of specimen containers, supply boxes, or equipment (up to 25 to 30 lbs) may be required. Fine motor skills, good visual acuity, and the ability to perform repetitive tasks with accuracy are essential.

Environmental Requirements:

Work is performed in a pathology laboratory environment with exposure to chemical reagents, biological specimens, fixatives, and standard laboratory equipment. Appropriate PPE is required. The role involves moderate noise, frequent interruptions, and strict adherence to infection control, biohazard handling, and safety protocols.