Histotechnologist - Pathology Lab - 139650

University of California San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Retirement plans

Job summary

University of California San Diego is seeking a Histotechnologist in San Diego, CA. The role involves performing histological procedures and maintaining high-quality standards. Candidates should have experience in a fast-paced lab and possess strong communication skills. Certifications such as HTL are preferred. The pay range is $83,771 - $104,108 annually, depending on experience and licensure. Candidates must adhere to vaccination policies as required, and comply with safety regulations in a smoke-free environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of experience as a histotechnologist.
• Ability to prioritize workload and meet turnaround time.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Perform histological procedures under supervision.
• Prepare tissue specimens for microscopic diagnosis.
• Mentor and train junior staff.

Skills

Communicate effectively

Collaboration

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Education

Histotechnologist certification (HTL)

Histotechnician certification (HT)

Tools

Laboratory information systems (LIS)

Job description

#139650 Histotechnologist - Pathology Lab

Filing Deadline: Tue 5/26/2026

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. Other tasks 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 is two (2) years of experience as a histotechnologist.

• 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: $83,771 - $104,108 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $40.12 - $49.86

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).

Vaccination Policy

If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

Life-support Certifications

Life-support certifications (BLS, NRP, ACLS, etc.) must include hands‑on practice and in‑person skills assessment; online‑only certification is not acceptable.

Equal Opportunity Employment

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement

As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.

• Misconduct means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC’s policies addressing some forms of misconduct: UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy, UC Anti-Discrimination Policy, Abusive Conduct in the Workplace.

Marijuana and Drug Free Environment

UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. UC San Diego Health maintains a marijuana and drug free environment. Employees may be subject to drug screening.