At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Histology Assistant I, handling samples and supporting lab operations.
- Company: Exact Sciences is revolutionising cancer detection and treatment with innovative solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, paid time off, health benefits, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while working in an inclusive and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED required; basic computer skills are a must.
- Other info: Position requires working Tuesday to Saturday, with potential for bonuses and stock options.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 40000 £ per year.
Help us change lives. At Exact Sciences, we are helping change how the world prevents, detects and guides treatment for cancer. We give patients and clinicians the clarity needed to make confident decisions when they matter most. Join our team to find a purpose-driven career, an inclusive culture, and robust benefits to support your life while you are working to help others.
Position Overview: The Histology Assistant I (Tuesday - Saturday 12:00pm - 8:30pm) is responsible for receiving the FFPE samples into the histology laboratory for preparation of DNA extraction, Immunohistochemistry (IHC), and H&E staining. This position will adhere to all safety, quality controls and procedures, while learning and performing all functions of histology, pathology, and molecular aspects needed in the laboratory.
Essential Duties Include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Assist in the general upkeep of the laboratory; including, but not limited to, maintaining sufficient inventory of material, supplies, equipment, cleaning glassware, and racks.
- Perform laboratory decontamination using the appropriate materials.
- Perform basic preventative maintenance on equipment according to the manufacturer specifications.
- Dispose of non-biohazard and biohazard waste.
- Re-stock laboratory and distribute supplies to work areas.
- Track samples using laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and excel spreadsheets by following standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Scan H&E slides into the slide scanning system for pathologist review.
- File and store slides and FFPE tissue blocks.
- Assist with the initial quality review of incoming specimens.
- Label FFPE blocks, slides, and DNA tubes by following SOPs.
- Perform order entry from requisition form into staining platform software.
- Prepare cases for microtomy, selecting appropriate control slides for cases.
- Record all required temperatures in the lab and take corrective actions, as needed.
- Maintain all histology equipment and corresponding documentation; including but not limited to, QC worksheets, preventive maintenance records, and day to day maintenance.
- Apply and integrate feedback in a professional manner.
- Provide and receive open and regular feedback and adjust accordingly.
- Prioritise and drive results with a high emphasis on quality.
- Display ability to work as part of a team.
- Adapt to a fast-paced environment.
- Apply strong communication skills with ability to maintain open communication with internal employees and management.
- Display high attention to detail with strong quality orientation.
- Uphold company mission and values through accountability, innovation, integrity, quality, and teamwork.
- Support and comply with the company's Quality Management System policies and procedures.
- Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
- Ability to act with an inclusion mindset and model these behaviours for the organisation.
- Ability to work nights and/or weekends, as needed.
- Ability to work seated for approximately 20% of a typical working day.
- Ability to work standing for approximately 80% of a typical working day.
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds for approximately 5% of a typical working day.
- Ability to grasp with both hands; pinch with thumb and forefinger; turn with hand/arm; reach above shoulder height.
- Ability to comply with any applicable personal protective equipment requirements.
- Ability to use various types of laboratory equipment; including H&E and IHC stainers, microtomes, tissue water bath, embedding station, and cover slipper.
- May perform repetitious actions using lab tools.
- Ability to use near vision to view samples at close range.
- May be exposed to hazardous materials, tissue specimens, and instruments with moving parts, lasers, heating and freezing elements, and high-speed centrifugation.
- May use various chemicals to perform duties.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
- Basic computer skills to include internet navigation and email usage.
- Demonstrated ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodation.
- Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Exact Sciences is proud to offer an employee experience that includes paid time off (including days for vacation, holidays, volunteering, and personal time), paid leave for parents and caregivers, a retirement savings plan, wellness support, and health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage.
Our success relies on the experiences and perspectives of a diverse team, and Exact Sciences fosters a culture where all employees can develop personally and professionally with a sense of respect and belonging.
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, protected veteran status, and any other status protected by applicable local, state, or federal law.
Histology Assistant I employer: Exact Sciences
Contact Detail:
Exact Sciences Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Histology Assistant I
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific laboratory equipment mentioned in the job description, such as H&E and IHC stainers, microtomes, and embedding stations. Having hands-on experience or knowledge about these tools can set you apart during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Demonstrate your understanding of quality control and safety procedures in a laboratory setting. Be prepared to discuss how you would maintain compliance with SOPs and the importance of these practices in histology.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your teamwork and communication skills by providing examples from past experiences where you successfully collaborated with others in a fast-paced environment. This will highlight your ability to adapt and thrive in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Exact Sciences and their mission to change lives through cancer detection and treatment. Being able to articulate how your values align with theirs can demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Histology Assistant I
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the responsibilities of a Histology Assistant I. Emphasise any laboratory experience, attention to detail, and teamwork abilities.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for cancer research and how your background makes you a suitable candidate for this role. Mention specific duties from the job description that excite you and how you can contribute to the team.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your basic computer skills, ability to follow SOPs, and any experience with laboratory equipment. This will demonstrate your readiness for the technical aspects of the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a position in histology.
How to prepare for a job interview at Exact Sciences
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Histology Assistant I. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the tasks mentioned, such as sample handling and laboratory maintenance.
✨Showcase Attention to Detail
Since this role requires high attention to detail, be ready to provide examples from your past experiences where your meticulousness made a difference. This could include situations where you ensured quality control or followed standard operating procedures accurately.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
The position emphasises working as part of a team. Prepare to share instances where you collaborated effectively with others in a lab setting or any other environment, highlighting your ability to communicate openly and adapt to feedback.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that show your interest in the company’s mission and culture. Inquire about their approach to quality management or how they support employee development, which reflects your alignment with their values.