Histology Technician

Position Summary The Histology Technician performs hands-on histology procedures to support high-quality tissue-based research and project execution in a fast-paced CRO environment. Working under the direction of the Histology Lead, the role independently performs core histology workflows including tissue grossing, specimen preparation, embedding, microtomy/sectioning, H&E staining, quality control, documentation, and routine laboratory support. The ideal candidate has strong bench-level histology capability, can consistently balance speed with slide quality, recognizes and troubleshoots routine technical issues, and communicates clearly when workflow or quality concerns arise. Key Responsibilities Histology Processing & Technical Execution Perform routine histology procedures, including specimen handling, tissue processing, embedding, microtomy/sectioning, and staining; perform cryosectioning when qualified and assigned. Prepare high-quality sections from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue blocks and, when qualified, frozen tissue samples in accordance with project requirements and established procedures. Perform manual H&E staining according to approved protocols; perform special stains and support IHC/IF workflows when trained and assigned. Independently perform tissue grossing and specimen preparation in accordance with established procedures and project requirements. Operate microtomes, tissue processors, staining equipment, and other histology laboratory equipment safely and correctly; operate cryostats when qualified and assigned. Troubleshoot routine histology issues involving tissue handling, embedding, sectioning, staining, or slide quality, and elevate complex specimen, equipment, or workflow concerns to the Histology Lead. Meet the established productivity standard of at least 20 FFPE blocks per hour while maintaining required quality and accuracy. Quality Control & Documentation Inspect tissue sections and slides for quality, proper orientation, section integrity, staining consistency, and conformance with project requirements. Maintain accurate sample identification, traceability, laboratory records, and required documentation throughout the histology workflow. Follow approved SOPs, protocols, work instructions, and quality-control procedures consistently. Document work accurately and promptly in accordance with internal quality requirements and applicable GLP or other regulated-laboratory practices. Report deviations, specimen issues, repeated quality concerns, or process failures promptly to the Histology Lead and support corrective actions as assigned. Laboratory Operations & Team Support Coordinate daily work priorities with the Histology Lead and communicate sample status, workflow delays, technical issues, and completion timelines. Perform routine equipment cleaning, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting according to established procedures. Prepare reagents, staining solutions, and laboratory materials; support inventory monitoring and communicate supply needs in a timely manner. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment and follow applicable laboratory safety, biosafety, and waste-disposal procedures. Collaborate with histology, scientific, project-management, and laboratory teams to support timely project execution. Participate in training, process-improvement activities, and implementation of updated SOPs or workflows. Qualifications Required Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Histotechnology, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Pathology, or a related scientific discipline; equivalent relevant experience may be considered. Minimum 5+ years hands-on histology/histopathology laboratory experience. Prior hands-on histology experience in a CRO environment is required. Demonstrated Day 1 proficiency in tissue embedding and microtomy/sectioning of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue blocks. Ability to independently perform tissue grossing and specimen preparation in accordance with established procedures. Demonstrated ability to process at least 20 FFPE blocks per hour while consistently meeting established quality standards. Hands-on experience performing manual H&E staining and strong working knowledge of end-to-end histology workflows, tissue handling, quality-control practices, and routine troubleshooting. Ability to maintain accurate documentation, sample traceability, and adherence to established SOPs and laboratory procedures. Strong attention to detail, organization, time management, communication, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented laboratory environment while maintaining quality and turnaround expectations. Preferred Experience with frozen tissue and cryosectioning. Experience performing manual special stains, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and/or immunofluorescence (IF). HT or HTL (ASCP) certification. Experience in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or research environments in addition to required CRO experience. Familiarity with GLP or other laboratory quality systems. #J-18808-Ljbffr