UC Davis Health
Job Summary
This position supports the departmental goals by processing patient samples and preparing slides for histologic analysis.
At the HT II level, the incumbent will be competent in the full range of tissue preparation assignments, including specialized techniques such as immunohistochemical stains.
They also serve as a lead for technical expertise and in troubleshooting and development of new techniques.
Apply By Date:
November 14, 2025 at 11:59 pm.
Selection activities may start at any time.
Minimum Qualifications
High School Diploma or equivalent work experience or training
Minimum work experience correlated to minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Experience working as a histotechnician in a histology laboratory setting.
Experience with embedding various types of fresh and fixed tissues.
Experience cutting paraffin embedded and fresh tissue blocks using a microtome.
Experience performing routine H&E and a variety of special histochemical stains simultaneously.
Ability to work with hazardous materials and chemicals.
Ability to work well under pressure and remain flexible in a changing work environment.
Knowledge and ability to operate a personal computer.
Organizational and time‑management skills to independently manage and prioritize an extensive and varied workload, meet multiple deadlines, and achieve timely progress in specimen processing.
Ability to function and work in a diverse work environment.
Ability to maintain the security of confidential information, exercise judgment, tact, and discretion in handling sensitive or confidential information and situations.
Preferred Qualifications
American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) HT Certification (preferred)
American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) HTL Certification (preferred)
Preferred Associate's Degree or Bachelor's Degree in a science‑related field.
Experience working as a histotechnician in a hospital histology laboratory setting.
Eligible to perform high‑complexity testing.
Ability to recognize processes that could lead to failures.
Knowledge of hospital and laboratory regulations and requirements (e.g., CDPH, CAP, TJC, NAACLS, OSHA).
Knowledge of basic chemistry and biology applicable to the surgical pathology laboratory.
Experience with preparing molar solutions.
Experience performing general histology laboratory maintenance.
Knowledge of the Laboratory and Hospital Information Systems (LIS/HIS) and other basic computer programs.
Excellent organization, time‑management, and prioritization skills.
Key Responsibilities
60% - Embedding and Cutting
30% - Staining
5% - Laboratory Maintenance
5% - Other Duties
Department Overview In support of UCDH mission of "improving lives and transforming health care," the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine provides high‑quality diagnostic and therapeutic care to patients, both UC Davis Health System and its affiliates, through the examination and interpretation of tissue, blood, and other body fluids.
Our laboratory is accredited by the College of American Pathology (CAP) and located in three distinct facilities; the Surgery and Emergency Services Pavilion (SESP), the Pathology Buildings, and the Specialty Testing Center.
The Department is one of the largest ancillary services with gross annual revenues in excess of $450 m, expenses of $60 m, and more than 250 employees across 18 distinct units and accounts/cost centers.
Department Specific Job Scope The Histology Laboratory is the receiving and processing point for tissue and cytology specimens taken from surgical and biopsy procedures.
Histotechnologists are involved in every step of the specimen preparation and testing required for a pathologist’s microscopic evaluation and diagnosis of a patient sample.
The Histotechnologist’s technical skills include: tissue processing and embedding, preparing tissue sections for microscope slides, routine H&E staining, and performing special stains.
POSITION INFORMATION
Salary or Pay Range: $57.54 - $57.54
Salary Frequency: Hourly
Salary Grade: 213
UC Job Title: HISTO TCHNO 2 PD
UC Job Code: 009069
Number of Positions: Multiple
Appointment Type: Staff: Per Diem
Percentage of Time: 20
Shift (Work Schedule): Night
Location: Histology Building (PATH‑V ST) (HSP015)
Union Representation: EX‑Patient Care Technical
Benefits Eligible: No
This position is 100% on‑site
Benefits Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California.
UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources, and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals.
Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.
High quality and low‑cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
On‑site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans.
More information on our retirement benefits can be found here
Physical Demands
Standing – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Walking – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Sitting – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Lifting/Carrying 0‑25 lbs – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Lifting/Carrying 26‑50 lbs – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Pushing/Pulling 0‑25 lbs – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Pushing/Pulling 26‑50 lbs – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Bending/Stooping – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Squatting/Kneeling – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Twisting – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Reaching overhead – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Keyboard use/repetitive motion – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Environmental Demands
Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Loud noise levels – Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
Marked changes in humidity or temperature – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Microwave/Radiation – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Extreme temperatures – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Uneven surfaces or elevations – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Mental Demands
Sustained attention and concentration – Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
Complex problem solving/reasoning – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Ability to organize & prioritize – Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
Communication skills – Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
Numerical skills – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Constant interaction – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Customer/Patient contact – Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
Multiple concurrent tasks – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Work Environment UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014.
Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e‑cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Special Requirements
This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance, and functional capacity assessment.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement:
As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world.
We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community.
We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose.
The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
The University of California, Davis is an Equal Employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti‑Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity.
Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification.
You may be an excellent fit for this role—or the next one.
We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement.
#YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
Seniority level:
Entry level
Employment type:
Part‑time
Job function:
Health Care Provider
Industries:
Hospitals and Health Care
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at UC Davis Health by 2x.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
At the HT II level, the incumbent will be competent in the full range of tissue preparation assignments, including specialized techniques such as immunohistochemical stains.
They also serve as a lead for technical expertise and in troubleshooting and development of new techniques.
Apply By Date:
November 14, 2025 at 11:59 pm.
Selection activities may start at any time.
Minimum Qualifications
High School Diploma or equivalent work experience or training
Minimum work experience correlated to minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Experience working as a histotechnician in a histology laboratory setting.
Experience with embedding various types of fresh and fixed tissues.
Experience cutting paraffin embedded and fresh tissue blocks using a microtome.
Experience performing routine H&E and a variety of special histochemical stains simultaneously.
Ability to work with hazardous materials and chemicals.
Ability to work well under pressure and remain flexible in a changing work environment.
Knowledge and ability to operate a personal computer.
Organizational and time‑management skills to independently manage and prioritize an extensive and varied workload, meet multiple deadlines, and achieve timely progress in specimen processing.
Ability to function and work in a diverse work environment.
Ability to maintain the security of confidential information, exercise judgment, tact, and discretion in handling sensitive or confidential information and situations.
Preferred Qualifications
American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) HT Certification (preferred)
American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) HTL Certification (preferred)
Preferred Associate's Degree or Bachelor's Degree in a science‑related field.
Experience working as a histotechnician in a hospital histology laboratory setting.
Eligible to perform high‑complexity testing.
Ability to recognize processes that could lead to failures.
Knowledge of hospital and laboratory regulations and requirements (e.g., CDPH, CAP, TJC, NAACLS, OSHA).
Knowledge of basic chemistry and biology applicable to the surgical pathology laboratory.
Experience with preparing molar solutions.
Experience performing general histology laboratory maintenance.
Knowledge of the Laboratory and Hospital Information Systems (LIS/HIS) and other basic computer programs.
Excellent organization, time‑management, and prioritization skills.
Key Responsibilities
60% - Embedding and Cutting
30% - Staining
5% - Laboratory Maintenance
5% - Other Duties
Department Overview In support of UCDH mission of "improving lives and transforming health care," the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine provides high‑quality diagnostic and therapeutic care to patients, both UC Davis Health System and its affiliates, through the examination and interpretation of tissue, blood, and other body fluids.
Our laboratory is accredited by the College of American Pathology (CAP) and located in three distinct facilities; the Surgery and Emergency Services Pavilion (SESP), the Pathology Buildings, and the Specialty Testing Center.
The Department is one of the largest ancillary services with gross annual revenues in excess of $450 m, expenses of $60 m, and more than 250 employees across 18 distinct units and accounts/cost centers.
Department Specific Job Scope The Histology Laboratory is the receiving and processing point for tissue and cytology specimens taken from surgical and biopsy procedures.
Histotechnologists are involved in every step of the specimen preparation and testing required for a pathologist’s microscopic evaluation and diagnosis of a patient sample.
The Histotechnologist’s technical skills include: tissue processing and embedding, preparing tissue sections for microscope slides, routine H&E staining, and performing special stains.
POSITION INFORMATION
Salary or Pay Range: $57.54 - $57.54
Salary Frequency: Hourly
Salary Grade: 213
UC Job Title: HISTO TCHNO 2 PD
UC Job Code: 009069
Number of Positions: Multiple
Appointment Type: Staff: Per Diem
Percentage of Time: 20
Shift (Work Schedule): Night
Location: Histology Building (PATH‑V ST) (HSP015)
Union Representation: EX‑Patient Care Technical
Benefits Eligible: No
This position is 100% on‑site
Benefits Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California.
UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources, and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals.
Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.
High quality and low‑cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
On‑site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans.
More information on our retirement benefits can be found here
Physical Demands
Standing – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Walking – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Sitting – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Lifting/Carrying 0‑25 lbs – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Lifting/Carrying 26‑50 lbs – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Pushing/Pulling 0‑25 lbs – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Pushing/Pulling 26‑50 lbs – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Bending/Stooping – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Squatting/Kneeling – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Twisting – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Reaching overhead – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Keyboard use/repetitive motion – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Environmental Demands
Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Loud noise levels – Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
Marked changes in humidity or temperature – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Microwave/Radiation – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Extreme temperatures – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Uneven surfaces or elevations – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Mental Demands
Sustained attention and concentration – Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
Complex problem solving/reasoning – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Ability to organize & prioritize – Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
Communication skills – Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
Numerical skills – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Constant interaction – Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Customer/Patient contact – Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
Multiple concurrent tasks – Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Work Environment UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014.
Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e‑cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Special Requirements
This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance, and functional capacity assessment.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement:
As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world.
We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community.
We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose.
The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
The University of California, Davis is an Equal Employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti‑Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity.
Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification.
You may be an excellent fit for this role—or the next one.
We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement.
#YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
Seniority level:
Entry level
Employment type:
Part‑time
Job function:
Health Care Provider
Industries:
Hospitals and Health Care
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at UC Davis Health by 2x.
#J-18808-Ljbffr