Tech - Histology Tech

Shift Details

Shift 8 hour days

Job Order Details

Start Date 2026-01-12

End Date 2026-04-13

Duration 13 Week(s)

Client Details

City San Francisco State CA

A Histology Technician is a skilled healthcare professional responsible for preparing tissue samples for microscopic examination by pathologists. These technicians play a crucial role in the diagnosis and study of diseases by processing and preserving tissue specimens, creating slides, and performing various laboratory procedures. Histology Technicians work in hospitals, research facilities, or private laboratories to ensure the highest quality of tissue analysis.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Specimen Processing and Preparation:

   • Receive and log patient tissue samples for processing, ensuring proper identification and documentation of each specimen.
   • Embed tissue samples in paraffin wax to preserve them for examination, ensuring proper orientation of the tissue.
   • Perform sectioning of paraffin-embedded tissue using a microtome to create thin tissue slices for slides.
   • Prepare frozen tissue sections by using cryostats for immediate analysis, if required by the pathologist.
   • Ensure that all tissue samples are processed according to established laboratory protocols and quality control standards.

2. Staining and Slide Preparation:

   • Apply various stains (e.g., Hematoxylin and Eosin, special stains, or immunohistochemistry stains) to tissue sections to highlight specific cellular structures or tissue components.
   • Prepare glass slides for mounting tissue sections, ensuring they are properly labeled for accurate identification.
   • Ensure proper drying and mounting of slides for safe and effective microscopic examination.
   • Operate specialized equipment such as automated stainers, coverslippers, and slide dryers.

3. Microscopic Examination:

   • Assist in preparing and reviewing slides for microscopic examination, although the primary examination is conducted by pathologists.
   • Ensure tissue slides are of sufficient quality for accurate diagnosis, making adjustments as necessary to improve staining or tissue preparation.
   • Recognize and report any abnormalities or issues with tissue samples to the pathologist or laboratory supervisor.

4. Quality Control and Compliance:

   • Maintain a high level of accuracy and consistency in all laboratory procedures, ensuring adherence to established protocols and best practices.
   • Monitor the quality of prepared slides, staining, and tissue sections, making adjustments to protocols as necessary.
   • Ensure compliance with safety and infection control standards, including the proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials such as formalin or other chemicals.
   • Adhere to quality assurance guidelines and standards, performing routine maintenance and calibration on laboratory equipment.

5. Laboratory Equipment and Maintenance:

   • Operate, maintain, and clean laboratory instruments and equipment used in tissue preparation, such as microtomes, cryostats, stainers, and coverslippers.
   • Ensure that equipment is functioning properly and troubleshoot minor issues, reporting significant malfunctions to the laboratory supervisor.
   • Order and maintain inventory of laboratory supplies and reagents, ensuring they are stocked and properly labeled.

6. Record-Keeping and Documentation:

   • Accurately document all processing and staining procedures, including batch records, reagent usage, and specimen information.
   • Maintain detailed logs of patient specimens, ensuring proper identification and tracking of all samples through the histology process.
   • Document any abnormalities or irregularities encountered during specimen processing and inform the appropriate personnel.

7. Collaboration with Pathologists and Laboratory Staff:

   • Work closely with pathologists, laboratory supervisors, and other medical professionals to ensure the smooth processing and analysis of tissue samples.
   • Communicate effectively with colleagues and medical professionals to discuss sample quality, results, and potential concerns.
   • Participate in laboratory meetings to review cases, troubleshoot challenges, and implement new techniques or processes.

8. Research and Education:

   • Stay current on advances in histology and laboratory technology by participating in continuing education and professional development opportunities.
   • Assist in the development and validation of new techniques or methods to improve the efficiency or accuracy of tissue processing and analysis.
   • Support the education and training of new histology staff or laboratory students, as appropriate.