Histotechnologist I

Employment Duration: 6 month 

Shift Timing: 2:00 am - 10:30 am (Mon–Fri.)

The Department of Pathology at UCSF aims to achieve the highest standards in patient care, research, and education. The Department provides diagnostic pathology services in a wide variety of subspecialties with highly trained subspecialists who are recognized nationally and internationally for their expertise. The Department’s research programs are diverse and interface with a wealth of basic and translational research programs that are a hallmark of UCSF. Educational programs include a research-intensive academic residency program and fellowships in cytopathology, dermatopathology, gastrointestinal and liver pathology, gynecologic pathology, neuropathology, and surgical pathology.

Under general direction, the incumbent prepares tissue specimens for examination by a pathologist. Responsibilities include fixing, embedding, cutting skin tissue, and applying a wide variety of immunohistochemical and special stains ordered by the pathologist. The incumbent prepares solutions, maintains laboratory equipment, keeps detailed records of work processed, performs quality control procedures, evaluates results, and resolves minor technical and equipment problems. The role supports activities required for accreditation by assisting with laboratory manual updates as needed, performs the full scope of technical duties in the laboratory, ensures equipment is maintained and used properly, and assists in monitoring the laboratory antibody database to ensure reagents are current.

The Dermatopathology and Oral Pathology Service is a fast-paced, high-volume laboratory, and this position requires significant attention to detail across all areas of the laboratory.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform routine histology, including embedding, microtomy, and staining with a high level of productivity.
• Perform a variety of staining techniques, including immunoperoxidase histochemical (special) staining and in situ hybridization staining.
• Ensure accuracy in slide labeling, specimen identification, and documentation.
• Recognize and resolve routine staining problems.
• Apply sound judgment and decision-making during routine staining and developmental procedures.
• Change hazardous solutions in laboratory equipment.
• Measure, evaluate, and section skin tissue.
• Determine whether specimens are acceptable for diagnostic purposes.
• Verify correct specimen labeling to ensure accurate identification throughout all procedures.
• Prepare specimen cassettes.
• Enter gross descriptions into the laboratory information system (LIS).
• Store and dispose of specimens in accordance with established hazardous waste precautions and protocols.
• Disinfect work areas.
• Support accreditation-related activities.
• Perform quality assurance checks on slides for patient identification and stain quality.
• Perform quality control procedures, evaluate results, and resolve minor technical and equipment issues.
• Perform basic laboratory tasks, including stocking supplies, maintaining and cleaning equipment, preparing solutions, and disposing of chemical waste.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

N/A

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum 1 year of experience in a high-volume histology laboratory.
• Knowledge of staining techniques and familiarity with reagents.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ability to maintain a high level of productivity in grossing, microtomy, and embedding.
• Experience with tissue grossing and processing.
• HT/HTL (ASCP) certification or eligibility.