Histology Technician

Job Title: Histology Technician
Location: Salinas, CA
Duration: 3+ Months (Possibility of Extension)

Shift: Variable Hours 8*5 – 40 Hrs.
Pay Range: $30 - $45 Hourly Local,  $1900-$2200 for Travellers
 
Position Summary:
The Histology Technician is responsible for performing routine and specialized histology procedures to ensure high-quality tissue slides suitable for accurate pathological diagnosis. This role supports patient care by maintaining precision, quality control, and compliance with laboratory and hospital standards.
 
Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform routine histology procedures including staining and cover slipping of tissue slides to diagnostic quality standards.
• Execute specialized procedures such as STATs, special stains, recuts, PAPS, bone marrows, FNAs, and cytology.
• Embed and cut tissue according to established histology protocols.
• Process, label, and prepare specimens and slides accurately.
• File and maintain slides, blocks, and tissue specimens in an organized manner.
• Prepare cytology specimens for examination by the Pathologist.
• Perform, document, and review quality control procedures; initiate corrective actions as needed.
• Conduct instrument function checks, verification, and routine maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Troubleshoot special or unusual problems related to specimens, equipment, or procedures.
• Prepare specimens for referral to reference laboratories.
• Dispose of tissue specimens and hazardous waste in accordance with safety regulations.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, inventory, and supplies.
• Write or update procedures and policies as requested by the Supervisor.
• Adhere to all hospital safety standards and promptly report unsafe conditions.
• Apply hospital policies related to guest and patient relations.
• Perform other duties as assigned or required.

 
Required Skills and Abilities:

• Technical / Motor Skills
• Ability to safely work with sharp instruments (e.g., microtome knives).
• Strong finger and manual dexterity for handling slides, specimens, and micro-products.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with patients, the public, coworkers, and medical staff.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to remain calm and effective during periods of high workload.
• Must meet the requirements outlined in the attached Physical Requirements Sheet.
• Ability to apply knowledge of chemistry and immunology techniques to staining and tissue processing.
• Capacity to concentrate for extended periods during procedures, equipment setup, and specimen processing.

 
Qualifications & Education:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Completion of a Histology training program (minimum two years) or equivalent professional experience.

Licensure & Experience:

• HATH/HLT certification preferred.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in Histology.
• At least one year of experience performing special stains.