Histology Technician (Contract) – Medical Device Laboratory

Location: Richmond, IL Duration: 6-Month Contract (March 2026 – End of 2026) Schedule: Full-Time, 40 Hours/Week, Monday–Friday Day Shift Department: Manufacturing Science & Engineering

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Histology Technician to support medical device research and development, manufacturing science, and product testing activities. This role will be responsible for performing routine histology procedures, tissue processing, microtomy, embedding, staining, and laboratory documentation in a regulated environment.

The ideal candidate will be capable of independently producing high-quality histological specimens while maintaining strict compliance with quality systems, documentation standards, and laboratory procedures.

Key Responsibilities

Specimen Processing & Tissue Preparation

• Receive, log, track, and process tissue specimens according to established laboratory procedures.
• Verify specimen identification, fixation status, and chain-of-custody documentation.
• Perform tissue processing activities including dehydration, clearing, and paraffin infiltration.
• Prepare tissue cassettes and maintain sample traceability throughout the workflow.

Embedding & Microtomy

• Embed processed tissue specimens and ensure proper orientation and labeling.
• Perform paraffin block sectioning using rotary microtomes.
• Float, mount, and prepare tissue sections while maintaining slide quality and integrity.
• Ensure consistency and accuracy throughout specimen preparation processes.

Histological Staining

• Perform routine Hematoxylin & Eosin (H&E) staining.
• Execute special staining procedures to support medical device testing and validation activities.
• Operate automated staining and coverslipping equipment.
• Evaluate stained slides and identify potential processing or staining issues.

Quality & Compliance

• Complete laboratory documentation accurately and in accordance with established procedures.
• Maintain compliance with ISO 13485, GxP, and ALCOA+ data integrity requirements.
• Ensure proper recordkeeping, labeling accuracy, and specimen traceability.
• Support laboratory quality initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.

Equipment Operation

• Operate and maintain histology laboratory equipment, including:
  • Tissue processors
  • Embedding centers
  • Rotary microtomes
  • Automated stainers
  • Coverslippers
• Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and troubleshooting activities as required.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in a histology laboratory environment (clinical, research, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, or industrial laboratory).
• Hands-on experience performing:
  • Tissue processing
  • Embedding
  • Microtomy
  • H&E staining
  • Special stains
• Experience operating histology instrumentation including tissue processors, embedding systems, microtomes, stainers, and coverslippers.
• Ability to follow regulated documentation and quality system requirements.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality laboratory results.

Preferred Qualifications

• HT (ASCP) or HTL (ASCP) certification.
• Experience supporting medical device testing, method development, validation, or process characterization activities.
• Familiarity with ISO 13485, GxP, and laboratory quality systems.
• Experience working in regulated medical device, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology environments.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift and move up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to safely handle laboratory reagents and chemicals, including alcohols, xylene substitutes, and formalin.

Key Skills

• Histology Laboratory Operations
• Tissue Processing
• Embedding
• Microtomy
• H&E Staining
• Special Stains
• Slide Preparation & Quality Assessment
• Histology Instrumentation
• Documentation & Data Integrity
• ISO 13485 / GxP Compliance
• Laboratory Quality Systems
• Attention to Detail

Success in This Role

Success will be measured by:

• Production of high-quality histology slides meeting laboratory standards.
• Accurate and complete documentation.
• Consistent reliability, attendance, and safety compliance.
• Timely support of testing, validation, and development activities without preventable delays or rework.