Histology Technician

About Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences

Mission: To provide medical examiner and crime laboratory services of the highest quality in an unbiased manner with uncompromised integrity.

Vision: To provide consistent, quality death investigation and laboratory analysis for the benefit of the entire community; to create a technological strongpoint for legal agencies to facilitate justice in criminal and civil proceedings; and to establish an academic environment for training in the field of forensic science.

Overview

The Histology Technician is responsible for preparing microscopic slides for analysis by Forensic Pathologists.

Responsibilities

• Prepare stained slides of tissue samples as requested by Assistant Medical Examiners in a carefully controlled environment.
• Prepare paraffin blocks of tissue for long‑term storage and ensure blocks are labeled in accordance with Histology Laboratory protocols.
• Retrieve, transport, store, and dispose of blocks, slides, specimens, and paperwork according to histology laboratory procedures.
• Communicate internally between pathologists and histology personnel to ensure timely handling of requests and respond to external requests to retain, release, or prepare specimens.
• Maintain a log of tissue samples entering the histology lab, complete the electronic case file, and compile monthly statistical reports.
• Deliver tissue slides to the assigned Assistant Medical Examiner, Deputy Chief Medical Examiner, or the Executive Director & Chief Medical Examiner on a timely basis.
• Mentor and assist in training interns, students, and others during their training period in the HCIFS Histology Laboratory.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Education: Associate’s Degree or equivalent (60 college hours) and current enrollment in or completion of a Histotechnology or Histotechnician program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences.

Experience:

• Previous experience using microtomes, automatic stainer, automatic slide and coverslippers, tissue processors, and manual staining and coverslipping processes.

Licensure/Certification: Certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists as a Histotechnician within one year of employment; valid Texas Driver’s License required to facilitate transport of off‑site supplies/samples.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Ability to understand and adhere to strict protocols for handling and storage of tissue samples, glass slides, and blocks.
• Knowledge of histology laboratory safety rules and procedures.
• Effective communication with co‑workers to ensure protocols are rigidly observed and casework meets the highest standards.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications.

Preferences

• Previous experience in a Histology Laboratory where duties included production of slide stains and preservation of tissue samples.

General Information

• Position Type: Full time, regular, 40 hours/week.
• Schedule: Rotating weekends, occasional holidays, and overtime as needed.
• Physical Demands: Must be able to lift up to 40 lb; may require long periods of standing, walking, stooping, and bending.
• Location: Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences, 1861 Old Spanish Trail, Houston, TX 77054.