Histotechnologist

Description The Histotechnologist / Histotechnician is responsible for preparing, processing, embedding, sectioning, and staining tissue specimens for microscopic examination by pathologists. This position plays an essential role in supporting accurate and timely diagnoses by ensuring high-quality slide preparation, specimen integrity, and adherence to established laboratory procedures and quality standards.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on histology experience, strong attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a clinical pathology laboratory.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Receive, identify, and prepare tissue specimens for processing while maintaining accurate specimen identification and tracking. Perform tissue fixation, dehydration, clearing, processing, and paraffin embedding. Perform microtomy, cutting thin tissue sections and preparing slides for microscopic examination. Prepare frozen sections using a cryostat when needed.

Perform routine Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining, special stains, and immunohistochemistry (IHC), as applicable. Mount, label, and organize slides to ensure accurate specimen identification and traceability. Evaluate slide quality, tissue integrity, section thickness, and staining consistency. Operate, clean, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment, including tissue processors, microtomes, cryostats, embedding centers, and staining systems.

Monitor reagents, supplies, and equipment performance; report issues and assist with inventory management. Follow established laboratory protocols, standard operating procedures, and quality-control requirements. Maintain accurate documentation, equipment logs, quality-control records, and other required laboratory documentation.

Follow applicable CLIA, OSHA, HIPAA, and laboratory safety requirements. Communicate with pathologists and laboratory team members regarding specimen quality, workflow concerns, and technical issues. Assist with maintaining an organized, clean, and efficient laboratory environment.

Requirements

Associate or bachelor's degree in Histotechnology, Medical Laboratory Science, Biology, or a related science field preferred. Completion of an accredited histotechnology program preferred. Previous hands-on experience in a clinical histology or pathology laboratory required. Experience with tissue processing, paraffin embedding, microtomy, and H&E staining.

Familiarity with special stains and immunohistochemistry preferred. Working knowledge of laboratory safety, quality-control procedures, and specimen handling. Ability to operate and troubleshoot histology laboratory equipment. Strong attention to detail, organization, and time-management skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a laboratory team.

Certification HT (ASCP) certification preferred. HTL (ASCP) certification preferred. Candidates with relevant histology experience and training may be considered based on laboratory requirements. Work Environment This position works in a clinical pathology laboratory and requires handling human tissue specimens, laboratory chemicals, and specialized equipment.

The role requires compliance with established safety procedures and the ability to stand for extended periods and perform detailed, repetitive laboratory tasks.