Histotechnologist - Pathology Lab - 139650

UC San Diego Health; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 89,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

UC San Diego Health is seeking a Histotechnologist to perform histological procedures in accordance with CLIA, CAP, and JCO requirements. The role includes grossing biopsies, preparing slides, and collaborating with the lead histotechnologist and supervisor to ensure timely, high-quality tissue preparation for diagnosis.

Responsibilities expand to preventive maintenance, inventory control, data collection, and cross-functional communication with pathologists and clinical staff.

Qualifications

• Must demonstrate effective communication with pathologists, staff, clinicians, and vendors.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, high-volume lab.
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous documentation.

Responsibilities

• Perform histology procedures including grossing and block loading.
• Prepare high-quality slides for microscopic diagnosis.
• Maintain sample integrity and accurate documentation throughout pre/post-analytic phases.
• Participate in preventive maintenance, inventory, data collection, and reporting.

Skills

Effective communication

Collaboration

Attention to detail

Prioritization

Regulatory knowledge

LIS experience

Documentation skills

Education

HTL certification

HT certification

Tools

LIS

Job description

The qualifications of this position have been slightly modified as of 10/30/2026.

DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision, the Histotechnologist performs histological procedures in accordance with Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), College of American Pathologists (CAP), and Journal of Clinical Oncology (JCO) requirements.

This position utilizes a wide range of skillsets encompassing manual, semi-automated, and advanced techniques (e.g., microtomy with rotary and cryostate microtomes, special stains, IHC, IF, ICE, and EM), to prepare tissue specimens for microscopic diagnosis. Throughout the entire process, from pre-analytic to post-analytic phases, the incumbent is expected to maintain the integrity of the samples. Additional responsibilities include grossing of biopsy specimens and loading of blocks. Prepares high-quality slides in an efficient and timely manner in close collaboration with the lead histotechnologist and supervisor. Othertasks include, but are not limited to, preventive maintenance, inventory management, data collection and reporting, and effective communication with different stakeholders.

Communicates effectively with co-workers, customers, staff, vendors, and others. Serves as a technical resource. Assists in the review, writing, and updating of policies and procedures. Provides mentorship and training to junior staff.

Depending on the selected candidate's experience and licensure/certification, this position may be hired at the Histology Tech II or Histology Tech III level.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum qualifications for the Histotechnologist II level: Either five (5) years of recent experience in a Histology/Anatomic Pathology (AP) Laboratory or possession of a valid Histotechnician (HT) or Histotechnologist (HTL) certification.
• Minimum qualifications for the Histotechnologist III level: may be met in 1 of 3 ways: 1) Three (3) years of experience in a Histology Anatomic Pathology (AP) laboratory with an HTL certification; OR 2) Five (5) years of experience in a Histology Anatomic Pathology (AP) laboratory with an HT certification, OR 3) ten (10) years of experience in Histology Anatomic Pathology (AP) laboratory without certification.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with pathologists, laboratory staff, clinicians, vendors, and other stakeholders.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, high-volume laboratory environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail with the ability to maintain specimen integrity and accurate documentation.
• Ability to prioritize workload and meet turnaround time expectations while maintaining quality standards.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety, quality assurance, and regulatory requirements including CLIA and CAP standards.
• Basic computer skills and experience working with laboratory information systems (LIS).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Histotechnologist certification (HTL).
• Histotechnician certification (HT).

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs.
• Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.
• Histo Tech level II pay range $40.12-$49.86. Histo Tech level III pay range $44.49-$55.30.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $88,844 - $110,393 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $42.55 - $52.87

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).