Lead Histotechnologist / Histotechnician
Join Yellowstone Pathology Institute, Inc. (YPI) as a full-time Histotechnologist or Histotechnician and become part of a respected independent reference laboratory serving the Northern Rockies region. We have an immediate opening in our Billings, Montana laboratory.
YPI supports hospitals and healthcare providers across Montana, northern Wyoming, and eastern Idaho. Our practice includes ten pathologists with subspecialty expertise in dermatopathology, GI/liver pathology, cytopathology, hematopathology, and molecular pathology. The laboratory offers a diverse case mix and opportunities to work with sophisticated and diagnostically challenging specimens.
Billings, Montana, is a vibrant community of approximately 125,000 residents, offering an exceptional quality of life with affordable housing, strong schools, a growing business environment, and unmatched access to outdoor activities year-round.
Job Summary:
The successful candidate will prepare surgical specimens for histologic examination through tissue processing, embedding, sectioning, staining (routine, frozen, and special stains), and quality maintenance of laboratory instrumentation. Under the supervision of a board-certified pathologist, the individual will assist with the gross examination of surgical pathology specimens. Additional duties may include collecting and preparing tissue for research and other specialized studies. The position requires strong specimen evaluation skills, the ability to correlate clinical history with tissue selection, and proficiency in handling diverse and complex case material.
Lead Histotechnologist / Histotechnician will have additional CAP oversight responsibilities to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. This position is not a supervisor of people.
Knowledge & Experience
- Minimum of 3 years of histology experience preferred; experience in hospital laboratory setting is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated proficiency in microtomy, tissue embedding, sectioning, and routine and special staining procedures.
- Working knowledge of anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and laboratory information systems/computer applications.
- Familiarity with grossing techniques, specimen handling, and general laboratory practices.
- Strong understanding of laboratory safety protocols, quality standards, and infection prevention procedures.
- Ability to accurately prepare and process tissue specimens for pathological evaluation while supporting pathologists in a high-volume diagnostic environment.
- Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining quality and efficiency.
Education
Completion of college-level coursework in biology and chemistry is required. Coursework in anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology, or graduation from an accredited Histotechnician/Histotechnology program, is highly considered. Candidates must possess a solid understanding of disease processes, gross and microscopic anatomy, medical terminology, surgical pathology procedures, and laboratory testing methods. Strong technical skills and the ability to apply pathology and laboratory principles in a clinical diagnostic setting are essential.
License/Certification:
ASCP certification as a Histotechnician (HT) or Histotechnologist (HTL) is preferred. A bachelor's or associate's degree in histotechnology, laboratory science, or a related biological science from an accredited institution is also preferred. Equivalent education, training, and experience will be considered. Candidates should demonstrate the knowledge and technical expertise necessary to perform histology procedures in a clinical pathology laboratory environment.
Aptitudes:
- Exceptional attention to detail with strong manual dexterity required for precise tissue embedding, sectioning, and microscopic specimen preparation.
- Flexibility to work early morning shifts, participate in a rotating Saturday and holiday schedule, and travel occasionally to our Cody, Wyoming laboratory as needed.
- Demonstrated ability to perform routine and special staining procedures accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with quality standards.
- Highly organized with the ability to prioritize tasks and maintain accuracy in a fast-paced, high-volume laboratory environment.
- Team-oriented and adaptable, with a willingness to assist across multiple areas of the laboratory.
- Proficient in specimen handling, processing, inking, gross preparation, and tissue sectioning while adhering to established protocols and procedures.
- Assists with surgical pathology specimen accessioning, dissection support, and collection of relevant clinical and diagnostic information.
- Exhibits professionalism, strong time-management skills, sound judgment, and the ability to perform assigned duties independently and effectively.
We invite qualified candidates to become part of the Yellowstone Pathology Institute team.
To apply, please submit your application through Indeed, or contact YPI directly for additional information about this opportunity.
Interested applicants may also email a cover letter, résumé/CV, and 3 professional references to:
Michelle Nelson, MBA-HM, MT(ASCP)SBBcm
Laboratory Operations Director
Yellowstone Pathology Institute, Inc.
Phone: 406-238-6360
Website: www.yellowstonepathology.com
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $35.00 - $45.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have 6 credits of biology AND 6 credits of chemistry AND 12 credits of any combination of lab, biology, or chemistry courses?
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Experience:
- Histology: 3 years (Preferred)
License/Certification:
- ASCP Certification (Preferred)
Work Location: In person