Laboratory Technician

Role Overview

Laboratory Technician at NMC Healthcare. Performs clinical tests in one or a combination of areas of specialization depending on the size and scope of the laboratory activity. May be assigned to or receive supervision from Chief Technician.

Role Purpose

To prepare tissue samples for microscopic analysis, perform histological staining, maintain laboratory equipment, and ensure quality control standards are met while adhering to occupational safety, health, and infection control policies.

Key Responsibilities

Specimen Preparation and Processing

• Prepare tissue samples for routine microscopic analysis.
• Record gross descriptions of small, uncomplicated specimens using specific terminology according to procedure.
• Prepare tissue samples using correct procedures for preservation including processing, freezing and embedding as appropriate per procedure.
• Section tissue samples using good microtomy techniques on microtomes to produce acceptable quality slides for staining according to procedures.

Staining and Quality Control

• Stain tissue for Routine, Special Stains, Immunofluorescence, Immunohistochemistry and Enzyme Histochemistry as requested.
• Prepare, label and store chemical solutions and stains accurately according to procedure and need.
• Perform stains accurately and record Quality Control (QC) results.
• Evaluate stain quality for acceptability prior to release of histological sections to the ordering pathologist.
• Communicate stain quality results to the supervisor and/or ordering pathologist.
• Develop and institute new stains as needed by working in conjunction with the supervisor, pathology staff and other technicians.

Equipment Management

• Maintain and operate laboratory equipment according to manufacturer recommendations and procedures.
• Operate instrumentation necessary for Histology functions within the manufacturer's guidelines and according to procedures.
• Recognize instrument malfunctions and perform troubleshooting to ensure accurate operation.
• Perform and document instrument maintenance on a scheduled basis.

Workload and Professional Development

• Prioritize and manage workload to meet expected Turn-Around-Times (TATs).
• Maintain competence and add new skills as technology changes.

Occupational Safety and Health Compliance

• Comply with all OSH and infection control policies, standards and procedures and cooperate with hospital management to comply with those requirements.
• Work in accordance with documented OSH procedures and instructions and specific responsibilities.
• Be familiar with emergency and evacuation procedures.
• Notify OSH Hazards, incidents, Near misses and issues and assist with the preparation of risk assessments and incident reports.
• Comply with Waste management procedures and policies.
• Attend applicable OSH/Infection control training programs, mock drills and awareness programs.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment and safety systems.

General Operations

• Work in all shifts as scheduled by the Section-in-Charge or Head of Histopathology Department.
• Strictly adhere to organization's regulations and policies especially those related to infection control, patient safety, OSHAD, DOH, DHA, MOH, JCI and ISO.
• Support Continuous Quality Improvement and participate and contribute to all quality assurance activities of the service.
• Participate and contribute to scheduled in-service training programs.
• Exercise effective interpersonal skills in dealings with department staff, associates and Management.
• Maintain confidentiality as per the agreement signed.
• Demonstrate the ability to listen to others in promoting effective communication.
• Develop thorough understanding of policies and procedures of the hospital and demonstrate respect for them.
• Carry out other duties when requested by the Head of Histopathology Department.

Qualifications & Experience

• Valid DOH/DHA License as Lab Technologist with Histology experience.
• B.Sc. in Medical Technology or Clinical Laboratory Science or equivalent qualification requiring not less than 3 years training course, with one year emphasis of the curriculum in the field of subspecialty in the basic qualification curriculum or certification by ASCP in the specialty.
• M.Sc. / Postgraduate in that specialty from an accredited program leading to registration with ASCP/CSMLS or equivalent.
• Minimum two (2) years of Medical Laboratory experience in Histopathology procedures required for Bachelor's degree holders.
• One (1) year of Medical Laboratory experience in Histopathology required for Postgraduate / M.Sc. holders.

Skills & Competencies

• Fluent in spoken and written English.
• Arabic language is desirable but not essential.
• Ability to learn and handle automation and IT programs is desirable but not essential.