Certified Histotech

Description

Department: Clinical / Laboratory

Location: Lab — Salem

Classification: Full-Time — 40 hours/week

Reports To: Laboratory Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY

The Histotechnician at Clear Choice Dermatology is a skilled laboratory professional whose work is at the heart of accurate dermatological diagnosis and patient care. This role is responsible for performing the full range of histological laboratory functions — from specimen receipt and gross tissue processing through embedding, microtomy, staining, and slide preparation — with precision, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Working under the direct supervision of the Laboratory Manager and in close collaboration with providers and clinical staff, the Histotechnician ensures that every specimen is processed accurately, every slide is prepared to the highest standard, and every result is delivered in a timeframe that supports excellent patient outcomes.

Clear Choice Dermatology is a growing, multi-site dermatology practice and our laboratory is a critical pillar of that growth. The ideal candidate brings proven histology skills, a strong compliance mindset, and the kind of detail-oriented, collaborative work ethic that makes a laboratory function at its best. Whether you are an experienced tech or a recent graduate with the right foundation, if you take pride in your craft and want to work somewhere your contribution truly matters — this is your role.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Histology & Specimen Processing

• Perform the full range of histological procedures including tissue embedding, microtomy, routine and special staining (H&E and others as directed), and slide preparation for pathologist and provider review
• Assist with gross tissue processing and specimen handling as permitted under CLIA regulations and laboratory protocols
• Ensure all patient samples are properly labeled, accessioned, and tracked throughout the processing workflow without exception — chain of custody is non-negotiable
• Prepare and process specimens for send-out testing including immunohistochemistry (IHC) and other special stains not performed in-house; confirm proper packaging, labeling, and documentation for all send-out specimens
• Apply coverslips to stained slides and prepare completed slides for timely provider review
• Dispose of all tissue and laboratory waste in accordance with biohazardous waste protocols and OSHA standards

Documentation & Administrative Functions

• Document all laboratory work accurately and completely within the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system in real time
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date lab logs, patient records, reagent logs, and quality assurance documentation as required by CLIA and laboratory policy
• Complete orientation and ongoing training on Clear Choice Dermatology's laboratory protocols, procedures, and EMR workflows
• Provide timely and professional communication and follow-up with providers, the clinical team, and the Laboratory Manager regarding specimen status, results, and any processing concerns
• Monitor supply usage and reagent levels throughout the day; alert the Laboratory Manager to reordering needs before shortages occur
• Keep temperature/humidity logs, chemical logs, and all required compliance documentation current and accurate

Equipment & Lab Maintenance

• Clean and maintain all laboratory equipment, instruments, and machines on a routine schedule; document all maintenance activities per protocol
• Troubleshoot equipment issues promptly; escalate unresolved problems to the Laboratory Manager without delay
• Ensure proper labeling, storage, and handling of all chemicals, reagents, and hazardous materials in full compliance with OSHA standards
• Monitor and maintain an organized, clean, and fully stocked laboratory environment throughout the workday

Compliance & Safety

• Maintain full compliance with OSHA, CLIA, HIPAA, and all applicable laboratory safety and regulatory standards at all times
• Ensure appropriate handling and disposal of all hazardous and biohazardous waste materials including sharps, contaminated supplies, and chemicals per established protocols
• Maintain current compliance with the blood-borne pathogen program, hazardous chemical communication plan, and biohazardous waste tracking and disposal plan
• Ensure biohazard signage, eyewash stations, and all laboratory areas meet physical plan compliance requirements
• Maintain The Guard training in accordance with current compliance requirements
• Participate in staff in-service meetings related to OSHA compliance, CLIA standards, and laboratory safety
• Uphold strict patient confidentiality in all laboratory activities and communications

Team Contribution & Patient Experience

• Support a positive, professional, and collaborative laboratory environment that reflects Clear Choice Dermatology's values
• Participate in team meetings, contribute constructive feedback, and actively support continuous improvement efforts within the laboratory
• Deliver responsive, professional communication — in person and by phone — when interacting with providers, clinical staff, and external laboratory contacts
• Demonstrate reliability and a team-first approach; understand that accurate, timely laboratory results directly impact patient diagnosis and care decisions

DAILY STRUCTURE

Morning

• Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; confirm the lab is set up, equipment is operational, and all supplies are stocked before the first specimens arrive
• Review pending specimens, outstanding send-out results, and any urgent communications from providers or the Laboratory Manager
• Check and log temperature/humidity readings; confirm all equipment logs are current

During the Day

• Process incoming specimens in order of receipt; maintain chain of custody documentation throughout the workflow
• Perform embedding, sectioning, staining, and slide preparation with precision and within required timeframes
• Prepare send-out specimens as indicated; confirm packaging, labeling, and courier documentation are complete
• Monitor reagent and supply levels; flag reorder needs to the Laboratory Manager proactively
• Communicate specimen status updates to providers and clinical staff as requested or as significant milestones occur

End of Day

• Complete all documentation for specimens processed that day; confirm no outstanding chain of custody or accessioning gaps
• Clean and prepare all equipment and workstations for the following day; run any required end-of-day instrument maintenance cycles
• Update all compliance logs; confirm all biohazardous waste has been properly disposed of
• Communicate any unresolved specimen issues, equipment concerns, or pending send-out results to the Laboratory Manager before leaving

WEEKLY & MONTHLY TASKS

Weekly

• Review and reconcile lab logs, QA documentation, and reagent records; report discrepancies to the Laboratory Manager
• Conduct equipment cleaning and maintenance per manufacturer and laboratory protocol schedules
• Review pending send-out results and follow up with reference laboratories on any overdue reports
• Confirm all outstanding provider communications regarding specimen status have been addressed

Monthly — First Week

• Conduct full laboratory supply inventory; submit reorder requests to the Laboratory Manager
• Review and update temperature/humidity logs, chemical inventory, and all compliance documentation
• Participate in monthly QA review with the Laboratory Manager; document findings and corrective actions as applicable
• Confirm CLIA and OSHA compliance materials, signage, and safety supplies are current and properly stocked

Requirements

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in science coursework or laboratory-related studies required
• Completion of an accredited histotechnology or clinical laboratory technician program required
• Must meet CLIA qualifications for High Complexity Testing (including gross tissue assistance)
• ASCP board certification (HT or HTL) preferred but not required; if not currently certified, must obtain certification within 3 years of hire

Experience

• Minimum 2 years of experience in a clinical laboratory setting preferred but not required; dermatology or ambulatory care experience a plus
• New graduates or less experienced technicians will be considered based on education, demonstrated skills, and overall fit

Skills & Competencies

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with electronic health records (EHR); EMR documentation accuracy is essential in this role
• Demonstrated competency in histological techniques including embedding, microtomy, and H&E and special staining procedures
• Exceptional attention to detail in all specimen handling, labeling, and documentation tasks — errors in the laboratory directly affect patient diagnosis
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple specimens and tasks simultaneously without compromising accuracy
• Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills; ability to interact effectively with providers, clinical staff, and external laboratory contacts
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced clinical laboratory environment
• Commitment to continuous learning, quality improvement, and upholding the highest standards of laboratory practice
• Team-oriented mindset aligned with Clear Choice Dermatology's culture of patient safety, accountability, and excellence

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

• Requires prolonged standing and working on your feet for the majority of the workday; some seated computer work required
• Requires frequent bending, stooping, and stretching throughout the shift
• Requires eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity sufficient to operate laboratory instruments, microtomes, cryostats, and a keyboard with precision
• Ability to lift and carry items up to 30 lbs during routine laboratory tasks
• Ability to pull and push supply carts as needed
• Normal range of hearing and vision required to perform specimen processing, documentation, and laboratory communication functions

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in a clinical laboratory setting at Clear Choice Dermatology's Salem location. This position involves regular exposure to biohazardous specimens, chemicals, fumes, and heated surfaces from laboratory equipment. Arms and hands may be exposed to cold temperatures during cryostat and frozen specimen processing. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required at all times in the laboratory and is provided by the practice. All OSHA, CLIA, and HIPAA standards must be observed without exception.

WORK STANDARDS

• Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; be ready to begin specimen processing and lab preparation from the moment the day starts
• Maintain a professional appearance and consistently demonstrate a positive, collaborative attitude in all interactions with laboratory staff, providers, and clinical team members
• Complete all laboratory tasks with accuracy and within established timeframes; proactively communicate delays or concerns to the Laboratory Manager
• Maintain regular and reliable on-site attendance; this role requires physical presence in the laboratory and cannot be performed remotely
• Uphold Clear Choice Dermatology's core values in all aspects of your work — treat every specimen with the care it deserves, because behind every slide is a patient counting on an accurate result
• Engage actively in professional development, performance feedback, and quality improvement initiatives
• Adhere strictly to HIPAA, OSHA, and CLIA guidelines at all times
• Report any equipment issues, compliance concerns, or specimen discrepancies to the Laboratory Manager immediately — without delay
• Perform other duties as required or assigned by the Laboratory Manager or Medical Director

COMPENSATION

• Relocation Assistance available
• Pay Range: $32-$48 depending on experience

Schedule

• Morning: 6:00am-2:30pm
• Evening: 1:30pm-10:00pm