Histotechnician

Essentia Health is seeking a Histotechnician to join our Laboratory Services team. In this role, you will prepare, process, embed, section, and stain tissue specimens to support accurate diagnosis and high-quality patient care. Responsibilities include operating and maintaining histology equipment, following established protocols, performing quality control, and collaborating closely with pathologists and laboratory staff. Essentia Health offers a compassionate, team-focused environment with strong support for professional development, continuous learning, and work-life balance in a mission-driven health system.

Responsibilities

• Accession, label, and prepare tissue specimens for histologic examination following established protocols
• Perform tissue fixation, processing, embedding, microtomy, and cover slipping with attention to detail and specimen integrity
• Execute routine H&E staining, special stains, and immunohistochemistry procedures according to standard operating procedures
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain histology equipment including tissue processors, embedding centers, microtomes, and automated stainers
• Perform and document quality control and quality assurance procedures, including reagent checks and instrument performance monitoring
• Troubleshoot technical and instrumentation problems and communicate issues to supervisors or pathologists as appropriate
• Follow CLIA, CAP, OSHA, and Essentia Health safety policies for handling chemicals, biohazardous materials, and sharp instruments
• Accurately enter and verify data in the laboratory information system, ensuring proper specimen identification and documentation
• Collaborate with pathologists, technologists, and clinical staff to meet turnaround time goals and support optimal patient care
• Assist in training and orienting new staff or students in histology techniques and laboratory procedures
• Participate in continuing education, competency assessments, and process improvement initiatives within the laboratory
• Provide occasional off-shift, weekend, or holiday coverage as needed to support continuous laboratory operations

Required Skills

• Histology and tissue preparation
• Microtomy and paraffin embedding
• Routine H&E staining
• Special stains and immunohistochemistry (IHC)
• Operation and maintenance of histology instruments
• Laboratory information systems (LIS) data entry and verification
• Quality control and quality assurance in clinical laboratories
• Knowledge of CLIA, CAP, and OSHA regulations
• Chemical and biohazard safety practices
• Specimen labeling, accessioning, and chain of custody
• Troubleshooting of histology procedures and equipment
• Basic microscopy and slide evaluation for quality
• Time management and ability to meet turnaround times
• Collaboration and communication in a clinical team environment