OPT Histology Technician Jobs
Histology Technician roles fall under STEM-designated programs in biological and clinical laboratory sciences, making most positions eligible for the 24-month OPT STEM extension. Employers in hospital networks, research institutions, and pathology labs routinely hire on OPT, particularly candidates with HT or HTL certification.
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Get Access To All JobsLocation: Miramar, Florida
Memorial laboratory professionals understand that every specimen and every report are informing diagnosis, treatment and care. We never lose sight of the patient and family who are on the other end of that data, and are depending on us for timely and accurate results. We aspire to the Five Rights of Laboratory Testing: performing the right test on the right patient at the right time for the right indicators leading to the right diagnostic decision.
Summary
The entry level Histology Technologist prepares histologic slides from human tissue sections for microscopic examination and diagnosis by Pathologist.
Responsibilities
- Evaluates complex and difficult samples to determine suitable methods of preparation and staining.
- Performs quality control, preventative maintenance, and advanced troubleshooting of instruments and stains for optimal performance.
- Prepares and evaluates stains, reagents, and solutions necessary for slide preparation following established policies and procedures.
- Receives, accessions as required, and prepares tissues and other biological materials using accepted histological techniques; performs proper labeling, fixation, embedding, microtomy, staining, and coverslipping.
- Performs cytology processing, staining and cover slipping using accepted histological techniques.
- Prepares for and participates in inspections and assists the laboratory in meeting all regulatory guidelines.
Competencies
ACCOUNTABILITY, ACCURACY & QUALITY, ANALYSIS AND DECISION MAKING, CLINICAL POLICIES AND STANDARDS, CUSTOMER SERVICE, EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE - LAB, HISTOLOGY SPECIAL STAINS AND IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY, RESPONDING TO CHANGE, SPECIMEN HANDLING, ACCESSIONING, AND PROCESSING, STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR
Education And Certification Requirements
Associates (Required)
Clinical Lab Technologist License (TN LICENSE) - State of Florida (FL)
Additional Job Information
Complexity of Work: Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and instrumentation. Ability to effectively relate and communicate with internal and external customers. Basic knowledge of laboratory information systems. Requires critical thinking skills, effective communication skills, decisive judgment and the ability to work with minimal supervision. Must be able to work in a stressful environment and take appropriate action.
Required Work Experience: No prior work experience required.
Working Conditions And Physical Requirements
- Bending and Stooping = 60%
- Climbing = 40%
- Keyboard Entry = 60%
- Kneeling = 20%
- Lifting/Carrying Patients 35 Pounds or Greater = 0%
- Lifting or Carrying 0 - 25 lbs Non-Patient = 60%
- Lifting or Carrying 25 - 75 lbs Non-Patient = 20%
- Lifting or Carrying > 75 lbs Non-Patient = 0%
- Pushing or Pulling 0 - 25 lbs Non-Patient = 60%
- Pushing or Pulling 26 - 75 lbs Non-Patient = 20%
- Pushing or Pulling > 75 lbs Non-Patient = 0%
- Reaching = 60%
- Repetitive Movement Foot/Leg = 0%
- Repetitive Movement Hand/Arm = 60%
- Running = 0%
- Sitting = 60%
- Squatting = 40%
- Standing = 60%
- Walking = 60%
- Audible Speech = 60%
- Hearing Acuity = 60%
- Smelling Acuity = 60%
- Taste Discrimination = 0%
- Depth Perception = 60%
- Distinguish Color = 60%
- Seeing - Far = 60%
- Seeing - Near = 60%
- Bio hazardous Waste = 60%
- Biological Hazards - Respiratory = 60%
- Biological Hazards - Skin or Ingestion = 60%
- Blood and/or Bodily Fluids = 60%
- Communicable Diseases and/or Pathogens = 60%
- Asbestos = 0%
- Cytotoxic Chemicals = 40%
- Dust = 40%
- Gas/Vapors/Fumes = 40%
- Hazardous Chemicals = 60%
- Hazardous Medication = 0%
- Latex = 20%
- Computer Monitor = 60%
- Domestic Animals = 0%
- Extreme Heat/Cold = 0%
- Fire Risk = 40%
- Hazardous Noise = 20%
- Heating Devices = 60%
- Hypoxia = 0%
- Laser/High Intensity Lights = 0%
- Magnetic Fields = 0%
- Moving Mechanical Parts = 60%
- Needles/Sharp Objects = 60%
- Potential Electric Shock = 40%
- Potential for Physical Assault = 20%
- Radiation = 20%
- Sudden Decompression During Flights = 0%
- Unprotected Heights = 0%
- Wet or Slippery Surfaces = 40%
Shift
Days
Disclaimer:
This job description is not intended, nor should it be construed to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. It is intended to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. Wages shown on independent job boards reflect market averages, not specific to any employer. We encourage candidates to talk to their Memorial Healthcare System recruiter to discuss actual pay rates, during the hiring process.
Memorial Healthcare System is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. Memorial Healthcare System recruits, hires and promotes qualified candidates for employment opportunities without regard to race, color, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any factor prohibited by law. We are proud to offer Veteran’s Preference to former military, reservists and military spouses (including widows and widowers). You must indicate your status on your application to take advantage of this program. Employment is subject to post offer, pre-placement assessment, including drug testing. If you need reasonable accommodation during the application process, please call 954-276-8340 (M-F, 8am-5pm) or email TalentAcquisitionCenter@mhs.net
Location: Miramar, Florida
Memorial laboratory professionals understand that every specimen and every report are informing diagnosis, treatment and care. We never lose sight of the patient and family who are on the other end of that data, and are depending on us for timely and accurate results. We aspire to the Five Rights of Laboratory Testing: performing the right test on the right patient at the right time for the right indicators leading to the right diagnostic decision.
Summary
The entry level Histology Technologist prepares histologic slides from human tissue sections for microscopic examination and diagnosis by Pathologist.
Responsibilities
- Evaluates complex and difficult samples to determine suitable methods of preparation and staining.
- Performs quality control, preventative maintenance, and advanced troubleshooting of instruments and stains for optimal performance.
- Prepares and evaluates stains, reagents, and solutions necessary for slide preparation following established policies and procedures.
- Receives, accessions as required, and prepares tissues and other biological materials using accepted histological techniques; performs proper labeling, fixation, embedding, microtomy, staining, and coverslipping.
- Performs cytology processing, staining and cover slipping using accepted histological techniques.
- Prepares for and participates in inspections and assists the laboratory in meeting all regulatory guidelines.
Competencies
ACCOUNTABILITY, ACCURACY & QUALITY, ANALYSIS AND DECISION MAKING, CLINICAL POLICIES AND STANDARDS, CUSTOMER SERVICE, EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE - LAB, HISTOLOGY SPECIAL STAINS AND IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY, RESPONDING TO CHANGE, SPECIMEN HANDLING, ACCESSIONING, AND PROCESSING, STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR
Education And Certification Requirements
Associates (Required)
Clinical Lab Technologist License (TN LICENSE) - State of Florida (FL)
Additional Job Information
Complexity of Work: Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and instrumentation. Ability to effectively relate and communicate with internal and external customers. Basic knowledge of laboratory information systems. Requires critical thinking skills, effective communication skills, decisive judgment and the ability to work with minimal supervision. Must be able to work in a stressful environment and take appropriate action.
Required Work Experience: No prior work experience required.
Working Conditions And Physical Requirements
- Bending and Stooping = 60%
- Climbing = 40%
- Keyboard Entry = 60%
- Kneeling = 20%
- Lifting/Carrying Patients 35 Pounds or Greater = 0%
- Lifting or Carrying 0 - 25 lbs Non-Patient = 60%
- Lifting or Carrying 25 - 75 lbs Non-Patient = 20%
- Lifting or Carrying > 75 lbs Non-Patient = 0%
- Pushing or Pulling 0 - 25 lbs Non-Patient = 60%
- Pushing or Pulling 26 - 75 lbs Non-Patient = 20%
- Pushing or Pulling > 75 lbs Non-Patient = 0%
- Reaching = 60%
- Repetitive Movement Foot/Leg = 0%
- Repetitive Movement Hand/Arm = 60%
- Running = 0%
- Sitting = 60%
- Squatting = 40%
- Standing = 60%
- Walking = 60%
- Audible Speech = 60%
- Hearing Acuity = 60%
- Smelling Acuity = 60%
- Taste Discrimination = 0%
- Depth Perception = 60%
- Distinguish Color = 60%
- Seeing - Far = 60%
- Seeing - Near = 60%
- Bio hazardous Waste = 60%
- Biological Hazards - Respiratory = 60%
- Biological Hazards - Skin or Ingestion = 60%
- Blood and/or Bodily Fluids = 60%
- Communicable Diseases and/or Pathogens = 60%
- Asbestos = 0%
- Cytotoxic Chemicals = 40%
- Dust = 40%
- Gas/Vapors/Fumes = 40%
- Hazardous Chemicals = 60%
- Hazardous Medication = 0%
- Latex = 20%
- Computer Monitor = 60%
- Domestic Animals = 0%
- Extreme Heat/Cold = 0%
- Fire Risk = 40%
- Hazardous Noise = 20%
- Heating Devices = 60%
- Hypoxia = 0%
- Laser/High Intensity Lights = 0%
- Magnetic Fields = 0%
- Moving Mechanical Parts = 60%
- Needles/Sharp Objects = 60%
- Potential Electric Shock = 40%
- Potential for Physical Assault = 20%
- Radiation = 20%
- Sudden Decompression During Flights = 0%
- Unprotected Heights = 0%
- Wet or Slippery Surfaces = 40%
Shift
Days
Disclaimer:
This job description is not intended, nor should it be construed to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job. It is intended to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. Wages shown on independent job boards reflect market averages, not specific to any employer. We encourage candidates to talk to their Memorial Healthcare System recruiter to discuss actual pay rates, during the hiring process.
Memorial Healthcare System is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. Memorial Healthcare System recruits, hires and promotes qualified candidates for employment opportunities without regard to race, color, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any factor prohibited by law. We are proud to offer Veteran’s Preference to former military, reservists and military spouses (including widows and widowers). You must indicate your status on your application to take advantage of this program. Employment is subject to post offer, pre-placement assessment, including drug testing. If you need reasonable accommodation during the application process, please call 954-276-8340 (M-F, 8am-5pm) or email TalentAcquisitionCenter@mhs.net
See all 43+ OPT Histology Technician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Histology Technician Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Histology Technician
Confirm your program's STEM CIP code
Histology Technician roles typically qualify for the STEM OPT extension under CIP codes in biological sciences or clinical laboratory science. Verify with your DSO before applying so you can confidently tell employers you're eligible for 36 months total.
Lead with HT or HTL certification
ASCP certification signals clinical competency to hiring managers faster than your visa status raises questions. Certified candidates face less employer hesitation around OPT paperwork because the credential itself justifies the hire without further explanation.
Target hospital systems and academic medical centers
Large hospital networks and university-affiliated pathology labs have dedicated HR teams familiar with OPT work authorization. They process I-983 training plans routinely, unlike smaller independent labs where OPT paperwork may be entirely unfamiliar territory.
Apply before your OPT start date is imminent
Employers need time to complete the I-983 and align your start date with your EAD. Starting your search three to four months before graduation gives hiring managers enough runway to complete onboarding without feeling rushed by your authorization timeline.
Address E-Verify requirements proactively
Clinical and hospital employers are frequently E-Verify participants, which is required for STEM OPT extensions anyway. Mentioning this upfront reassures employers that your authorization is verifiable and that you understand the compliance process on their end.
Highlight hands-on laboratory coursework in your resume
Employers sponsoring OPT want evidence that classroom training maps directly to the histology bench. Quantify your experience with specific techniques like tissue processing, microtomy, or special stains to make the connection between your degree and the role explicit.
Histology Technician OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Histology Technician jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most do, but it depends on your degree's CIP code rather than the job title itself. If your degree is in biological sciences, clinical laboratory science, or a related STEM field, you're likely eligible for the 24-month STEM extension after your initial 12 months of OPT. Confirm with your DSO before accepting an offer, since the employer also needs to be E-Verify enrolled to satisfy the extension requirement.
Will employers hire Histology Technicians on OPT without H-1B sponsorship?
Yes. Many hospital systems and pathology labs hire on OPT because it doesn't require them to file a petition or pay USCIS fees. Your EAD card is your work authorization, and for STEM-eligible roles the employer only needs to complete an I-983 training plan and be enrolled in E-Verify. Resistance usually comes from smaller labs unfamiliar with the process, not larger healthcare employers.
Where can I find Histology Technician jobs that are OPT-friendly?
Migrate Mate filters job listings specifically for OPT students, so you can browse Histology Technician openings from employers already familiar with or open to OPT work authorization. Searching on general platforms means manually screening out roles where the employer has no experience with international students, which wastes significant time during an authorization window where every week matters.
Can I work as a Histology Technician while waiting for my ASCP board exam results?
In most states, you can work in a histology role under supervision before receiving your certification, but this varies by state laboratory licensing requirements. Your OPT EAD authorizes you to work in your field of study, so the visa side is not the limiting factor. Check your state's clinical laboratory personnel regulations and confirm the employer's job description doesn't list certification as a strict hire requirement.
What happens to my OPT if I lose my Histology Technician job?
You have a 90-day unemployment allowance across your total OPT period, which STEM OPT extends to 150 days total. If your position ends, report the change to your DSO within 10 days and begin your job search immediately. Histology roles in hospital networks and reference labs tend to have lower turnover than other laboratory specialties, so extended gaps are less common, but having a plan matters.