Neuromuscular and Electron Microscopy Technician

Hennepin Healthcare is an integrated system of care that includes HCMC, a nationally recognized Level I Adult Trauma Center and Level I Pediatric Trauma Center and acute care hospital, as well as a clinic system with primary care clinics located in Minneapolis and across Hennepin County. The comprehensive healthcare system includes a 473-bed academic medical center, a large outpatient Clinic & Specialty Center, and a network of clinics in the North Loop, Whittier, and East Lake Street neighborhoods of Minneapolis, and in the suburban communities of Brooklyn Park, Golden Valley, Richfield, and St. Anthony Village. Hennepin Healthcare has a large psychiatric program, home care, and operates a research institute, philanthropic foundation, and Hennepin EMS. The system is operated by Hennepin Healthcare System, Inc., a subsidiary corporation of Hennepin County.

Equal Employment Opportunities: We believe equity is essential for optimal health outcomes and are committed to achieve optimal health for all by actively eliminating barriers due to racism, poverty, gender identity, and other determinants of health. We are committed to equitable care and working in an environment that celebrates, promotes, and protects diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We are committed to bringing in individuals with new cultural perspectives to assist in creating a more equitable healthcare organization.

JOB DETAILS
Department: Electron Microscopy Lab
FTE: 1.0
Workdays: Monday - Friday
Shift(s): Days
Shift Length: 8 hours
Location: In-Person

Purpose of this position: Under direct supervision, performs advanced histology testing of moderate to complex difficulty. Uses specialized equipment and processes following established procedures. Demonstrates patient and family centered care behaviors.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Gross muscle and/or nerve biopsy tissues following established protocols including fresh, formalin fixed, EM fixation or nerve teasing
• Properly orient and snap freeze muscle and/or nerve tissue utilizing liquid nitrogens
• Perform cryotomy of muscle and/or nerve specimens for optimal demonstration of various tissue structures
• Perform enzyme histochemistry staining on frozen sections following established procedures
• Perform complex procedures such as teasing single strand nerve fibers for pathologist review
• Research and work up new staining protocols as directed by medical staff
• Utilize advanced knowledge of proper tissue preparation to ensure adequate quality fixation and epon-embedding for Electron microscopy
• Trim epon-embedded blocks; cut semi-thin and ultrathin sections by using an ultra-microtome. Place tissue on copper grids and stain grids using Uranyl acetate and Lead citrate staining methods
• Exhibit expertise with operation, function, and maintenance of the Transmission Electron microscope. Perform an advanced level of initial ultrastructural examination locating specific pathological features that allow for subsequent diagnosis
• Routinely perform digital imaging with morphometric measurements, image organization, distribution and storage
• Perform and evaluate quality control, instrument maintenance and troubleshooting processes
• Perform routine duties involving laboratory set up, safety, reagent preparation, and cleanup

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Qualifications:

• Completion of a Laboratory Histology Technician training program approved by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)
• Certified or eligible as a Histology Technician (ASCP), Histology Technologist (ASCP), or Electron Microscopy Technician (MSA)

-OR-

• Experience as an Electron Microscopy Technician examining human tissue
• Certified or eligible as a Histology Technician (ASCP), Histology Technologist (ASCP), or Electron Microscopy Technician (MSA),

-OR-

• An approved equivalent combination of education and experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• One year of experience
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to work independently and self-motivated
• Ability to work cohesively and respectfully with a diverse work force and patient population

Knowledge/ Skills/ Abilities:

• Customer service skills
• Detail oriented
• Ability to read and follow written instructions

You've made the right choice in considering Hennepin Healthcare for your employment. We offer a wealth of opportunities for individuals who want to make an impact in our patients' lives. We are dedicated to providing Equal Employment Opportunities to both current and prospective employees. We are driven to connect talented individuals with life-changing career opportunities, enabling you to provide exceptional care without exception. Thank you for considering Hennepin Healthcare as a future employer.

Please Note: Offers of employment from Hennepin Healthcare are conditional and contingent upon successful clearance of all background checks and pre-employment requirements.

• We offer a competitive pay rate based on your skills, licensure/certifications, education, experience related to this position, and internal equity.
• We provide an extensive benefits program that includes Medical; Dental; Vision; Life, Short and Long-term Term Disability Insurance; Retirement Funds; Paid Time Off; and Tuition reimbursement.
• For a complete list of our benefits, please visit our career site on why you should work for us.