Histotechnologist: Precision Tissue Prep & Mentorship

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

Job summary

UC San Diego is seeking a Histotechnologist to perform a broad range of histological procedures, including microtomy, special stains, IHC, IF, ICE, and EM, ensuring specimen integrity from pre-analytic to post-analytic stages. The role collaborates with the lead histotechnologist and supervisor to deliver timely, high-quality slides.

Eligible candidates may be hired at Histology Tech II or Tech III levels based on experience and licensure, with duties expanding to QA, policy updates, and

Qualifications

• Two years of experience as a histotechnologist.
• HTL certification with 3 years in a Histology AP lab for Tech III, or HT certification with 5 years, or 10 years without certification.
• Ability to communicate effectively with pathologists, staff, clinicians, vendors, and stakeholders.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume laboratory environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail; maintain specimen integrity and documentation.
• Ability to prioritize workload and meet turnaround times while ensuring quality.
• Knowledge of CLIA, CAP standards; LIS familiarity.
• Basic computer skills and LIS experience.

Responsibilities

• Prepare tissue specimens for microscopic diagnosis.
• Perform microtomy (rotary and cryostate), special stains, IHC, IF, ICE, and EM to prepare slides.
• Gross biopsy specimens and loading of blocks.
• Prepare high-quality slides in collaboration with lead histotechnologist and supervisor.
• Conduct preventive maintenance, inventory management, data collection and reporting.
• Communicate effectively with co-workers, customers, staff, vendors; act as technical resource.
• Mentor and train junior staff; participate in policy/procedure reviews and updates.

Skills

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Turnaround time management

LIS experience

Safety and regulatory knowledge

Education

Histotechnologist certification (HTL)

Histotechnician certification (HT)

Tools

Laboratory Information Systems (LIS)

Microtomy equipment

Job description

UC San Diego is seeking a Histotechnologist to perform a broad range of histological procedures, including microtomy, special stains, IHC, IF, ICE, and EM, ensuring specimen integrity from pre-analytic to post-analytic stages. The role collaborates with the lead histotechnologist and supervisor to deliver timely, high-quality slides.

Eligible candidates may be hired at Histology Tech II or Tech III levels based on experience and licensure, with duties expanding to QA, policy updates, and