Histotechnician – Laboratory Tissue Processing

About the role

The Histotechnician receives and accession surgical, biopsy, and autopsy specimens for routine tissue processing and microscopic examination. The role supports pathologists, pathologist assistants, and residents in the gross dissection room and performs special procedures such as special stains and undecalcified bone processing.

Key responsibilities

• Embed tissues in paraffin, cut, stain, and label slides for microscopic review.
• Assist in the gross dissection room and perform special procedures, including special stains and bone processing.
• Prepare and package specimens for send‑outs, electron microscopy, immunofluorescence, cell flow, and cytogenetics, handling documentation and billing.
• Maintain equipment (microtomes, cryostats, automated slide strainers, H&E stainer) and ensure clean work areas with proper QC documentation.
• Respond to pathologist, supervisor, and management requests within 24 hours and manage workload to meet productivity goals.

Required profile

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree or 60 semester hours with biology and chemistry coursework preferred.
• At least 1 year of histopathology laboratory experience or ASCP Histotechnician (HT) certification.
• Strong interpersonal, judgment, analytical, and stress‑management skills.
• Ability to work independently and follow safety and regulatory guidelines.

Required skills

• Operation of microtomes, cryostats, automated slide strainers, cover slippers, and H&E stainer.
• Performance of special stains and undecalcified bone processing.
• Proficiency with Windows‑style applications, data entry, and computer‑based laboratory information systems.
• ASCP Histotechnician (HT) certification (preferred or acceptable in lieu of experience).