Histotechnologist

Job Description Summary
Histotechnologist (HT / HTL)
Job Summary
The Histotechnologist is responsible for the preparation, processing, and staining of tissue specimens for microscopic examination by pathologists. This role ensures the production of high-quality histologic slides in a timely and accurate manner to support diagnostic decision-making and patient care. The Histotechnologist applies advanced technical expertise, exercises independent judgment, maintains compliance with regulatory standards, and contributes directly to workflow efficiency, quality outcomes, and patient safety.

Entity
Medical University Hospital Authority (MUHA)

Worker Type
Contingent Worker

Worker Sub-Type
Traveler

Cost Center
CC000459 CHS - Histopathology & Special Stains (Main)

Pay Rate Type
Hourly

Pay Grade
Health-27

Scheduled Weekly Hours
40

Work Shift

Job Description

Specimen Processing and Slide Preparation

• Perform tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, and staining (including H&E, special stains, and immunohistochemistry as applicable).
  
• Ensure proper tissue orientation and embedding techniques to preserve diagnostic integrity.
  
• Cut high-quality sections using rotational microtomes and troubleshoot cutting artifacts.
  
• Maintain specimen identification and chain of custody throughout all processes.
  

Quality and Patient Safety

• Identify, prevent, and correct technical errors impacting slide quality.
  
• Recognize unacceptable specimens or processing issues and escalate per laboratory protocols.
  
• Participate in quality assurance activities, incident reporting, and corrective actions.
  
• Adhere strictly to CAP, CLIA, OSHA, and institutional quality and safety standards.
  

Workflow and Throughput Management

• Maintain consistent production pace to meet turnaround time expectations.
  
• Prioritize workload to support timely slide delivery to pathologists.
  
• Contribute to backlog reduction efforts during periods of high volume or staffing shortages.
  
• Support operational continuity during onboarding or training of new personnel.
  

Equipment and Reagent Management

• Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of histology equipment.
  
• Prepare, validate, and maintain reagents and stains according to SOPs.
  
• Monitor inventory levels and report supply needs proactively.
  

Training and Mentorship

• Provide technical guidance, oversight, and informal training to laboratory associates, trainees, or students as assigned.
  
• Model best practices in embedding, microtomy, and staining techniques.
  
• Support competency assessment and skill development under laboratory leadership direction.
  

Documentation and Compliance

• Maintain accurate documentation of procedures, quality checks, maintenance logs, and incident reports.
  
• Comply with specimen tracking requirements and laboratory information system (LIS) workflows.
  
• Participate in inspections, audits, and proficiency testing as required.
  

Qualifications

Required

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in histotechnology, laboratory science, or related field.
  
• ASCP certification as Histotechnician (HT) or Histotechnologist (HTL) required per regulatory standards.
  
• Demonstrated competency in embedding, microtomy, and routine histologic staining.
  
• Working knowledge of laboratory safety, quality control, and regulatory requirements.
  

Preferred

• Experience in a hospital-based or high-volume histology laboratory.
  
• Experience supporting training or onboarding of laboratory staff.
  
• Familiarity with immunohistochemistry and special stains.
  
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently under variable workload demands.
  

Key Competencies

• Precision and technical excellence
  
• Time management and workflow prioritization
  
• Quality-driven mindset
  
• Strong communication and collaboration
  
• Accountability and professional judgment
  

Physical and Environmental Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
  
• Manual dexterity for microtomy and slide preparation.
  
• Ability to lift and move materials per laboratory safety guidelines.
  
• Exposure to chemicals, biological specimens, and mechanical equipment, with appropriate PPE.
  

Additional Job Description
Education: Bachelors Degree or equivalent Work Experience: 5 years for support or 0-2 years for professional HTL(ASCP) certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP BOC) or equivalent

If you like working with energetic enthusiastic individuals, you will enjoy your career with us!


The Medical University of South Carolina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. MUSC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, age, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state laws and/or federal regulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment based upon applicable qualifications, merit and business need.


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