The Histotechnologist processes histology specimens using various methodologies and complex machinery, preparing them for pathologist review. They are responsible for staining slides, tracking specimen progress, and ensuring quality control in the laboratory.
Requirements summary
A high school diploma is required, with a preference for a bachelor's degree in biological science. Certification as a Histotechnician or Histotechnologist is required, along with a minimum of one year of experience in a Histology laboratory.
high schoolbachelor degreeQuality ControlQuality AssuranceTime ManagementPreventative MaintenanceProblem SolvingManual DexterityData EntryAttention to DetailCustomer InteractionSpecimen ProcessingLaboratory EquipmentImmunohistochemistryMicroscopyStainingHistologyTissue Sample Handling
Job description
**$7,500 Sign On Bonus for offers accepted by June 30, 2026. Terms and Conditions apply*
The Histotechnologist receives histology specimens and processes them using various methodologies, complex machinery, and staining systems. Histotechnologists perform a variety of tasks, consisting primarily of preparing and processing pathology specimens in preparation for pathologist review and diagnosis. Histotechnologists are responsible for appropriately staining the slides whether with routine, special or immunohistochemical stains. The Histotechnologist is responsible for labeling, entering, and tracking the progress of the specimen until it reaches the Pathologist for diagnosis. Essential Job Statements Responsible for performing and demonstrating competency of histological procedures including complex staining and immunohistochemical techniques. Determines appropriate handling and prioritization of tissue samples submitted for microscopic analysis. Utilizes appropriate equipment for histological protocols. Microscopically analyzes all stained slides and controls to verify the accuracy of the testing and adjusts procedures as necessary. Performs routine preventative maintenance, cleaning, and troubleshooting of lab equipment. Helps maintain archive of filed slides and blocks. Assists in maintaining laboratory accreditation standards, to include quality control and quality assurance documentation. Monitors laboratory supplies to maintain proper inventory. Performs other duties as assigned. Patient Population Neonates (0-4 weeks) Infant (1-12 months) Pediatrics (1-12 years) Adolescents (13-17 years) Adults (18-64 years) Geriatrics (65 years and older) Employment Qualifications Required Education: High School Diploma or equivalent Preferred Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Science Licensure/Certification Required: Certified as a Histotechnician (HT) or Histotechnologist (HLT) by the American Society for Clinical Pathology or an equivalent certification agency. New graduates of an accredited Histotechnology program must obtain certification within 12 months of hire. Licensure/Certification Preferred: N/A
Minimum Qualifications
Years and Type of Required Experience Minimum of one (1) year of work experience in a Histology laboratory if not a graduate from an accredited Bachelors of Biological Science Program Other
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Required: Rotating weekends as required. Holiday scheduling as required. On-call availability as required. Cultural Responsiveness: N/A Other
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Preferred: N/A Working Conditions Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur. General office environment. May be exposed to adverse weather conditions; cold, hot, dust, wind, etc. May be exposed to high noise levels and bright lights. May be exposed to limited hazardous substances or body fluids.
May be exposed to human blood and other potentially infectious materials.
May have periods of constant interruptions. Prolonged periods of working alone.
Individuals in this position are required to exercise universal precautions, use personal protective equipment and devices, and learn the policies concerning infection control. Physical Requirements Physical Demands: Lifting/ Carrying (0-50 lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (50-100 lbs.), Push/ Pull (0-50 lbs.), Push/ Pull (50-100 lbs.), Stoop, Kneel, Squat, Climbing, Balance, Bending Work Position: Sitting, Walking, Standing Additional Physical Requirements/ Hazards Physical
Requirements
Manual dexterity (eye/hand coordination), Perform shift work, Hear alarms/telephone/tape recorder, Reach above shoulder, Repetitive arm/hand movements, Finger Dexterity, Color Vision, Acuity - far Hazards: Depth perception, Use of Latex Gloves, Exposure to toxic/caustic/chemicals/detergents, Exposure to moving mechanical parts, Exposure to dust/fumes, Exposure to potential electrical shock, Exposure to high pitched noises, Gaseous risk exposure Mental/Sensory – Emotional Mental / Sensory: Strong Recall, Reasoning, Problem Solving, Hearing, Speak Clearly, Write Legibly, Reading, Logical Thinking Emotional: Fast-paced environment, Steady Pace, Able to Handle Multiple Priorities, Frequent and Intense Customer Interactions, Noisy Environment, Able to Adapt to Frequent Change Days EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran
Who We Are
Inventing better care, day by day by discovery Sound outrageous? It absolutely is. Sound impossible? That’s never stopped us before. Sound like hard work, intense research, collaboration with experts around the world, sheer brainpower meets unrelenting willpower? That’s. Exactly. Right. We’ll do whatever it takes to offer the best in care and empower the best in quality of life. And it’s an approach that works — whether it’s a patient who undergoes a new, life-saving procedure or a clinical researcher who finds promise in a new cancer treatment, exciting new medicine is happening at VCU Health. We have it all:
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An academic medical center
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One of only two NCI-designated cancer centers in Virginia
The region’s only full-service children’s hospital
More than 800 physicians in 200 specialties
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