Under general supervision and in accordance with established policies, procedures, and professional standards, the Histotechnologist (Scientist in Histotechnology) prepares tissue specimens and body fluids for microscopic examination and performs a comprehensive range of routine, special, and high‑complexity histologic procedures. This role utilizes advanced histology techniques—including tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, cryotomy, special staining and immunohistochemistry—to support accurate pathological diagnosis. The Histotechnologist maintains equipment, prepares reagents, evaluates slide quality, troubleshoots technical issues, and ensures compliance with CLIA ’88, CAP, and state regulatory standards. The position requires independent judgement, technical expertise and a commitment to patient safety. The position supports laboratory workflow, assists with training when needed, and performs duties aligned with the mission, vision, and values of Tampa General Hospital.
Essential Functions
Processes, embeds, sections, and stains tissues; prepares high‑quality slides for pathologist interpretation; performs special stains and high‑complexity testing per licensure scope.
Cuts and stains frozen sections for immediate intraoperative consultation, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and communication with the pathologist.
Reviews stained slides for quality, staining consistency, and correct tissue orientation; rejects substandard slides and repeats procedures when necessary.
Mixes, labels, tracks, and evaluates stains, chemicals, and reagents according to established protocols, adjusting formulations when needed.
Cleans, and maintains microtomes, cryostats, microscopes, and automated staining equipment; identifies mechanical issues and reports service needs.
Manages specimen workflow to meet CAP, CLIA, and laboratory turnaround time (TAT) guidelines; efficiently organizes tasks to support surgical and clinical schedules.
Assists in evaluating and validating new histologic techniques, supply products, equipment, or workflow improvements under supervisory direction.
Provides guidance to pathology office staff, laboratory assistants, students, and temporary personnel; assists in competency development as assigned.
Uses PPE appropriately; follows biosafety, chemical safety, and waste disposal guidelines; handles infectious materials safely.
Communicates effectively with pathologists, clinicians, and laboratory colleagues, supports high‑quality patient care through excellent laboratory performance.
Expertise in histopathology, tissue processing, microtomy, frozen section preparation, special stains, use of automated stainers, reagent preparation, and CLIA‑regulated high‑complexity testing requirements.
Ability to recognize staining artifacts, sectioning errors, equipment malfunctions, and quality deviations; apply corrective actions; and seek supervisory or pathologist input when required.
Knowledge of CAP, CLIA, and state licensure regulations, quality control procedures, documentation requirements, and laboratory safety practices for handling biological and chemical hazards.
Proficiency in operating and maintaining microtomes, cryostats, microscopes, processors, staining platforms, and laboratory instruments; ability to perform routine maintenance and report advanced issues.
Prepare frozen sections during intraoperative consultations in a timely and accurate manner.
Ability to communicate clearly with pathologists, technologists, laboratory staff, and clinical departments; skill in providing explanations, clarifying specimen issues, and supporting collaborative workflows.
Strong time‑management skills, ability to prioritize multiple tasks, maintain accurate records, meet turnaround times, and consistently adhere to attendance and safety standards.
Florida Histology Technologist Certification
Experience One (1) year of experience in histologic techniques in clinical laboratory of a hospital or outpatient clinic. Florida licensed Clinical Laboratory Technologist (Specialty Histology) is required.
Associates in histotechnology or science related field or equivalent education and experience with Florida Histology technologist certification.
Must meet and maintain Florida licensure regulations for performing moderate and high complexity testing as outlined in CLIA 88 regulations.