Histologic Tech, Certified

MU Health Care; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 57,000 - 89,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

Retention rewards

Relocation support

Student loan repayment

Health insurance

Job summary

MU Health Care is seeking a detail-oriented Histologic Technician to join the University Hospital Histology team. You will perform routine paraffin sections, histochemical and immunohistochemical testing, and help ensure rapid, accurate diagnostics in a fast-paced lab.

The role emphasizes precision, collaboration with pathologists, and ongoing learning in diagnostic excellence to support patient care outcomes.

Qualifications

• Associate degree (or equivalent) with 12 hours of chemistry and biology, or completion of a histology program.
• Histotechnician (ASCP-HT) certification by ASCP.

Responsibilities

• Prepare routine paraffin sections and special stains for microscopic diagnosis.
• Perform histochemical and immunohistochemical tests for pathology.
• Handle nerves, muscles, frozen sections, and kidneys; prepare DIF specimens.
• Maintain QA/QC to ensure high-quality procedures and rapid reporting.
• Troubleshoot techniques, maintain reagents, and assist colleagues.
• Document daily activities and perform preventive maintenance on equipment.

Skills

Histology

ASCP-HT

QA/QC

Paraffin sectioning

Immunohistochemistry

Education

Histology program

Tools

Paraffin processing

Frozen section

Job description

Shift: 4am - 12:30pm, Monday - Friday with rotating call and weekends

Department: Labs, University Hospital Histology

Compensation:

• Base Pay Range: $27.21-$42.99 per hour, based on experience.
• Choose Between Sign-Bonus - OR - Retention Rewards
• Sign-On Bonus: $10,000
• Retention Rewards: Up to $15,000
• Relocation Support: Additional $5,000 if moving from over 50 miles away
• Retention Reward (Option 1): $2,000 per year for up to 5 years, totaling $10,000
• Student Loan Repayment (Option 2): $2,000 per year toward student loans, up to 5 years, totaling $10,000
• Note: Details will be provided during the HR interview. Policy language is available upon request.

ABOUT THE JOB

MU Health Care is looking for a detail-driven and quality-focused Histologic Technician who takes pride in precision, thrives in a fast-paced laboratory environment, and is passionate about advancing patient care through diagnostic excellence. The ideal candidate is a meticulous problem-solver who combines strong technical expertise with a commitment to continuous learning, innovation, and maintaining the highest standards of laboratory quality. We value professionals who can think critically, adapt quickly, and confidently troubleshoot challenges while delivering accurate and timely results. Success in this role requires exceptional attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with pathologists and fellow laboratory team members. At MU Health Care, you'll join a supportive and forward-thinking team where your expertise, dedication, and commitment to excellence directly contribute to life-changing diagnoses and improved patient outcomes. If you are passionate about precision medicine and driven to make a meaningful impact every day, we encourage you to apply and grow your career with us.

ABOUT MU HEALTH CARE

At MU Health Care, we have an inspired, hard-working and collaborative environment driven by our mission to save and improve lives. We believe anything is possible and rally around solutions. We celebrate innovation and offer opportunities to be a part of something bigger - to have a voice and role in the work that is serving our community and changing the field of medicine.

Our academic health system - the only in mid-Missouri - is home to multiple hospitals, including the region's only Level 1 Trauma Center and region's only Children's Hospital as well as over 90 specialty clinics. Here, you can define your career among our many clinical and nonclinical positions - with growth, opportunity and support every step of the way.

Learn more about MU Health Care.

Learn more about living in mid-Missouri.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

• Health, vision and dental insurance coverage starting day one
• Generous paid leave and paid time off, including nine holidays
• Multiple retirement options, including 100% matching up to 8%and full vesting in three years
• Tuition assistance for employees (75%) and immediate family members (50%)
• Discounts on cell phone plans, rental cars, gyms, hotels and more
• See a comprehensive list of benefitshere.

DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION

Perform routine and special paraffin sections of surgical and autopsy tissue for microscopic examination in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Perform histochemical and immunohistochemical laboratory tests and techniques for the diagnosis of pathologic conditions in tissues, cytology, and hematology preparations.

Perform initial handling, division, preparation, and evaluation of nerves, muscles, frozen sections, and kidneys. Prepare skin and kidney specimens for direct immunofluorescence (DIF).

Modify techniques and procedures, within acceptable limits, to meet special conditions or expedite diagnosis.

Cut frozen sections so that tissue may be further evaluated through special stains.

Develop and implement new or modified protocols and procedures to stay abreast of current laboratory trends.

Implement QA/QC to maintain the high quality of all procedures and protocols.

Troubleshoot any procedure or staining technique to maintain high quality and quick turnaround time.

Maintain reagents used in the laboratory.

Assist other laboratory personnel.

Maintain daily documentation, troubleshoot malfunctions, and perform preventative maintenance on all laboratory equipment.

May complete unit/department-specific duties and expectations as outlined in department documents.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Associate's degree (or equivalent credit hours) including 12 hours of combined chemistry and biology, completion of a histology program, or one (1) year experience in a histology laboratory.

Histotechnician (ASCP-HT) certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Additional license/certification requirements as determined by the hiring department.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met with or without reasonable accommodation. The performance of these physical demands is an essential function of the job. The employee may be required ambulate, remain in a stationary position, and position self to reach and/or move objects above the shoulders and below the knees. The employee may be required to move objects up to 10 lbs.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.