Lead Histology Technician

Lead Histology Technician

Location: Bakersfield, CA

Summary/Objective

The Lead Histology Technician is responsible for overseeing daily histology laboratory operations while performing advanced technical duties in the preparation of tissue samples for pathological evaluation. This role ensures high-quality slide production, adherence to regulatory standards, workflow prioritization, and staff guidance. The Lead Histology Technician serves as a subject matter expert, supporting quality assurance, troubleshooting, and team development to ensure accurate and timely diagnostic results.

Essential Functions

• Oversee daily workflow and prioritize histology procedures to ensure timely turnaround of cases

• Perform all routine histology functions including embedding, microtomy, staining, and slide preparation

• Daily cleaning, setup, and maintenance of work areas including instruments, waterbath, microtome, and workbench

• Paraffin embedding of routine anatomical (non-dermatology) pathology tissue specimens

• Produce high-quality sections of paraffin-embedded tissue including levels, recuts, and re-embeds

• Ensure proper H&E staining, including verification of stain quality and control review

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot Prisma stainer and coverslipper

• Maintain and manage special stain control bank; prepare and cut control blocks as needed

• Demonstrate knowledge of special stains (e.g., Alcian Blue) and appropriate tissue components and controls

• Monitor quality control and quality assurance processes; ensure compliance with all regulatory standards (CLIA, CAP, etc.)

• Train, mentor, and support histology staff, providing guidance on procedures and best practices

• Assist with scheduling, workload distribution, and performance oversight of histology personnel

• Maintain accurate documentation and records of all testing procedures

• Identify and resolve technical issues and workflow inefficiencies

Job Requirements and Skills

• 4–7+ years of histology experience, with demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience preferred

• ASCP HT or HTL Certification (preferred; HTL strongly preferred for lead role)

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field (preferred)

• Strong knowledge of histology techniques, including embedding, microtomy, H&E staining, and special stains

• Proven ability to troubleshoot instrumentation (e.g., Prisma stainer) and staining issues

• Strong leadership, training, and team coordination skills

• Intermediate computer skills and familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS)

• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)

• High level of manual dexterity and attention to detail

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced laboratory environment