Lead Laboratory Histologist

Lighthouse Lab Services seeks a Lead Histotechnologist for a client located in San Jose, California.

About San Jose:

San Jose, CA is an exciting place to build your career, with a competitive job market and near-perfect year-round weather. The city's incredible diversity shines through a vibrant food scene, walkable neighborhoods, and a thriving arts and nightlife district, all with easy access to San Francisco, the Santa Cruz Mountains, and Napa Valley just an hour away. If you're looking for a dynamic city with something for everyone, San Jose delivers.

About the Client:

Join one of the fastest-growing dermatology practices in the country, a certified Great Place to Work with 110+ offices nationwide. Known for its supportive, team-oriented culture, this organization invests in your growth from day one with hands-on training, clear advancement opportunities, and a solid benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) matching, generous PTO, and employee discounts on cosmetic services.

Summary/Objective:

Reporting to the Lab Manager and Lab Director, the Lead Histotechnologist will perform histology procedures in accordance with the laboratory's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) while helping coordinate daily workflow and supporting laboratory operations.

The Lead Histotechnologist will maintain a strong commitment to quality, accuracy, safety, and regulatory compliance.

Lead Responsibilities:

• Assist the Lab Manager with inventory management and ordering laboratory supplies. • Monitor laboratory supply usage to ensure sufficient inventory levels. • Delegate technical work to staff based on productivity, specimen volume, and staffing levels. • Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and coordinate vendor repairs when necessary. • Perform approximately 75% bench work, depending on volume and staffing needs. • Assist the Lab Manager with administrative duties, including filing reports, continuing education materials, and quality assurance documentation.

Histology Responsibilities:

• Embed skin specimens, including shaves, punches, nails, and excisions. • Perform microtomy on histology blocks. • Stain and coverslip hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) slides. • Perform special stains, including PAS, AFB, and Gram stains. • Perform immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining using the Bond Max and Ventana Ultra. • Cut control slides for IHC and special stains. • Assist with slide distribution as needed. • File paraffin blocks and H&E slides according to laboratory procedures. • Operate and maintain tissue processors. • Troubleshoot laboratory equipment and perform routine maintenance. • Follow quality control procedures and maintain accurate documentation. • Monitor inventory and maintain proper reagent documentation. • Dispose of biohazardous and hazardous waste according to established policies and regulations. • Maintain a safe, clean laboratory environment. • Follow bloodborne pathogen safety procedures and use appropriate personal protective equipment. • Adhere to company and laboratory SOPs and complete required QC logs. • Perform other duties as needed to support laboratory operations.