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Tissue Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Tissue Technician

Riverside, CA · On-site

$50K - $69K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tissue Technician / Pathology Assistant This role focuses on the gross examination, preparation ... Bachelor of Science in Laboratory Science or Medical Laboratory Technology is strongly preferred.

Surgical Recovery Technician

Redlands, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Technologist program, current or previous licensure as a paramedic, previous experience in tissue or organ recoveries, experience in an allied health field such as (embalming, physiology, anatomy ...

Surgical Recovery Technician

Redlands, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Technologist program, current or previous licensure as a paramedic, previous experience in tissue or organ recoveries, experience in an allied health field such as (embalming, physiology, anatomy ...

Surgical Recovery Technician

Redlands, CA · On-site

$52K - $56K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Technologist program, current or previous licensure as a paramedic, previous experience in tissue or organ recoveries, experience in an allied health field such as (embalming, physiology, anatomy ...

Surgical Recovery Technician

Azusa, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Technologist program, current or previous licensure as a paramedic, previous experience in tissue or organ recoveries, experience in an allied health field such as (embalming, physiology, anatomy ...

Surgical Recovery Technician

Azusa, CA

$18 - $22.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Technologist program, current or previous licensure as a paramedic, previous experience in tissue or organ recoveries, experience in an allied health field such as (embalming, physiology, anatomy ...

Operate tissue processors, embedding centers, and staining equipment. * Execute ... Minimum 2 years of recent experience as a Histology Tech. * ASCP-HT certification required (or ...

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Showing results 1-20

Tissue Tech information

See California salary details

$11

$20

$36

How much do tissue tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for tissue tech in California is $20.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tissue tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tissue Tech, you need a solid understanding of histology, tissue processing, and laboratory protocols, generally supported by an associate's degree in a laboratory science or related certification. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), microtomy equipment, and staining techniques is critical. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and effective communication are important soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies ensure accurate specimen preparation, reliable diagnostic results, and efficient workflow in pathology laboratories.

What is the difference between Tissue Tech vs Histology Technician?

AspectTissue TechHistology Technician
CertificationsTypically requires a histology technician certification or equivalentOften requires similar histology certifications or associate degree
Work EnvironmentHospitals, laboratories, research facilitiesHospitals, pathology labs, research institutions
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing tissue samples, embedding, sectioning, stainingPreparing, sectioning, staining tissue samples for analysis

Both Tissue Tech and Histology Technician roles involve preparing tissue samples for examination, often requiring similar certifications and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in terminology used by employers or regions, but their duties and qualifications largely overlap.

What are some common challenges faced by tissue techs in a clinical laboratory setting?

Tissue Techs often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of specimens while maintaining precision and accuracy in tissue processing and embedding. Attention to detail is critical, as even minor errors can affect diagnostic results. Additionally, adapting to evolving laboratory technologies and protocols requires ongoing learning. Working effectively within a team of pathologists and lab professionals is essential, as Tissue Techs play a key role in supporting accurate diagnoses and patient care.

What is a tissue tech?

Tissue Techs, also known as histology technicians or histotechnicians, are laboratory professionals who prepare tissue samples for examination by pathologists. They handle tasks such as embedding, sectioning, staining, and mounting tissues onto slides to help diagnose diseases. Tissue Techs work in medical laboratories, hospitals, or research facilities and play a crucial role in identifying abnormalities in tissue samples. Their work supports accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning for patients.
Infographic showing various Tissue Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,122 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Tissue Recovery Technician I

DCI Donor Services

West Sacramento, CA • On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


DCI Donor Services rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Launch Your Medical Career with Purpose – No Experience Required! *Sign on Bonus $4000*

Are you detail-oriented, calm under pressure, and eager to make a real impact in the world? Have you dreamed of working in the medical field but weren’t sure where to begin?

At Tennessee Donor Services, we’re offering a unique opportunity to start your healthcare career as a Tissue Recovery Technician — with paid, hands-on training and no prior medical experience required. When you join us, you’re not just learning surgical skills — you’re opening the door to a long-term career in healthcare.

Tissue Recovery Technicians will participate in the recovery, packaging, and labeling of human tissue. The recovery process consists of cleaning and setting up the recovery room, surgical prep of the donor, aseptic recovery of human tissue, restoration of the donor, and decontamination of the recovery room and instruments.

COMPANY OVERVIEW AND MISSION

Tennessee Donor Services is a designated organ procurement organization (OPO) within the state of Tennessee – and is a member of the DCI Donor Services family.

For over four decades, DCI Donor Services has been a leader in working to end the transplant waiting list. Our unique approach to service allows for nationwide donation, transplantation, and distribution of organs and tissues while maintaining close ties to our local communities.

DCI Donor Services operates three organ procurement/tissue recovery organizations: New Mexico Donor Services, Sierra Donor Services, and Tennessee Donor Services. We also maximize the gift of life through the DCI Donor Services Tissue Bank and Sierra Donor Services Eye Bank.

Our performance is measured by the way we serve donor families and recipients. To be successful in this endeavor is our ultimate mission. By mobilizing the power of people and the potential of technology, we are honored to extend the reach of each donor’s gift and share the importance of the gift of life.

We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. With the help of our employee-led strategy team, we will ensure that all communities feel welcome and safe with us because we are a model for fairness, belonging, and forward thinking.

???? What Skills Will Set You Up for Success?

  • Strong attention to detail – Accuracy is essential when working in surgical settings and handling donor tissue.
  • Comfortable in clinical or operating room environments – You’ll learn sterile technique and surgical protocol.
  • Team player with strong communication skills – You’ll work closely with a skilled, mission-driven team.
  • Adaptability and emotional resilience – This is meaningful, life-changing work that requires compassion and professionalism.
  • Motivated to learn and grow – We’ll equip you with all the tools and support to succeed.

???? What You'll Learn:

  • Real surgical procedures and sterile techniques used in tissue recovery
  • How to operate in an OR-like environment with professional tools and standards
  • Human anatomy and surgical protocols, providing a foundation for future roles in healthcare
  • Skills that translate directly into clinical, surgical, or emergency medical careers

You’ll gain experience that many people don’t get until much later in their medical careers — making this role a powerful steppingstone or an opportunity to build a lasting career in the medical and donation field.

???? What You’ll Get:

  • On-the-job training – We teach you everything you need to know.
  • Valuable medical experience – Get hands-on with human anatomy and surgical recovery procedures.
  • Career advancement opportunities – Build a future in the healthcare field.
  • Make a difference – Play a vital role in saving and healing lives through tissue donation.
  • Up to $4,000 in sign-on bonuses

???? Employee Benefits:

  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) to recharge and refresh
  • Extended Sick Bank (ESB) for added peace of mind
  • Comprehensive Health Insurance – medical, dental, and vision
  • Holiday Pay – Earn extra pay when you work on recognized holidays
  • A workplace that values purpose, growth, and teamwork

???? Our Culture:

We believe in working hard, supporting each other, and getting the job done right — together. Our team is tight-knit, mission-driven, and always ready to lend a hand. If you’re looking for a place where people have your back and your work truly matters, you’ll fit right in.

This is more than a job — it’s a chance to start a career that truly matters.

Ready to make a difference and build your future in healthcare? Apply now and join the mission at Tennessee Donor Services.

You will receive a confirmation e-mail upon successful submission of your application. The next step of the selection process will be to complete a video screening. Instructions to complete the video screening will be contained in the confirmation e-mail. Please note - you must complete the video screening within 48 hours from submission of your application to be considered for the position.

DCIDS is an EOE/AA employer – M/F/Vet/Disability.


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