Associate Scientist I - Histotechnician

Orion Group; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 68,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Orion Group in Irvine, CA is seeking an Associate Scientist I – Histotechnician for an 8-month contract. Responsibilities include processing FFPE tissues, embedding, trimming, sectioning, staining, and IHC with both manual and automated methods.

The role requires 1–3 years histology experience, a degree in biology or related field, strong documentation, safety compliance, and ability to work independently in a fast-paced lab.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Biology, Medical Laboratory Science, Histotechnology
• 1–3 years hands-on histology experience including FFPE processing, microtome sectioning, and staining
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently in a high-throughput lab
• Good documentation and record-keeping habits
• Ability to safely handle laboratory chemicals and biological specimens

Responsibilities

• Process FFPE tissue specimens: trimming, embedding, block preparation
• Section FFPE blocks with a microtome to produce high-quality slides
• Perform routine histology staining (H&E) and special stains per SOPs
• Perform manual and automated IHC staining, including antigen retrieval and detection
• Operate and maintain histology equipment (microtomes, processors, embedding stations, autostainers)
• Image slides and organize digital files for study team review
• Maintain accurate records of samples, staining runs, and QC checks
• Troubleshoot staining and tissue quality issues and escalate as needed
• Ensure proper labeling and chain-of-custody for tissues and slides
• Maintain lab supplies, reagents, and calibration/maintenance logs
• Adhere to safety protocols for chemicals and biohazards
• Support general lab organization and inventory management
• Collaborate with scientists and lab management to meet timelines

Skills

Attention to detail

Independent work

Documentation

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology / Histotechnology

Tools

Microtome

Autostainer

Tissue processor

Embedding station

Coverslipper

IHC platforms (Leica Bond / Ventana / Dako)

Job description

Associate Scientist I – Histotechnician

Hourly Rate: $33 - $36/hr with medical benefits available at a cost

Contract Length: Initial contract through 7/25/27

Location: Onsite in Irvine, CA

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday 9 am to 5 pm

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced histotechnician for an 8-month contract position supporting routine histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) operations within the histology laboratory for Skincare R&D and Clinical Development.

This is a hands-on, lab-based role responsible for the processing, sectioning, and staining of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues, as well as performing special stains, IHC assays, and associated imaging/documentation. The ideal candidate is comfortable working independently in a fast-paced environment, maintains rigorous attention to quality and consistency, and has solid foundational histology bench skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine processing of FFPE tissue specimens, including trimming, embedding, and block preparation
• Section FFPE tissue blocks using a microtome to produce high-quality, consistent slides for downstream analysis
• Perform routine histology staining (e.g., H&E) and special stains (e.g., Fontana-Masson, Resorcin Fuchsin, Herovici, etc.) per established SOPs
• Perform manual and/or automated immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining, including antigen retrieval, antibody optimization support, and chromogenic/fluorescent detection
• Operate and maintain histology laboratory equipment (microtomes, tissue processors, embedding stations, autostainers, coverslippers)
• Perform slide imaging/scanning and organize digital image files for study team review
• Maintain accurate, detailed records of samples, staining runs, and quality control checks in line with lab documentation practices
• Troubleshoot staining and tissue quality issues, escalating as appropriate
• Ensure proper labeling, tracking, and chain-of-custody for tissue specimens and slides
• Maintain lab supplies, reagents, and equipment calibration/maintenance logs
• Adhere to all laboratory safety protocols, including handling of chemicals (formalin, xylene, etc.) and biohazardous materials
• Support general lab organization, inventory management, and cleanliness standards
• Collaborate with scientists and lab management within Skincare R&D and Clinical Development to meet study timelines and quality expectations

Required Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field (e.g., Biology, Medical Laboratory Science, Histotechnology)
• Minimum of 1–3 years of hands-on experience in a histology laboratory, including FFPE tissue processing, microtome sectioning, and routine/special staining
• Strong attention to detail and consistency in a high-throughput lab environment
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while following established SOPs
• Good documentation and record-keeping habits
• Ability to safely handle laboratory chemicals and biological specimens

Preferred Qualifications

• HT or HTL certification (ASCP) or eligibility
• Demonstrated experience performing IHC staining (manual and/or automated platforms)
• Familiarity with slide imaging/digital scanning workflows
• Experience with automated IHC/special stain platforms (e.g., Leica Bond, Ventana/Roche Discovery, Dako Autostainer)
• Experience with whole-slide imaging/scanning systems
• Prior experience in a pharmaceutical, biotech, or CRO research lab setting (as opposed to clinical diagnostics)
• Familiarity with GLP or GxP laboratory documentation practices
• Experience in skincare/dermatology-focused research or clinical development studies is a plus