Histology Technicians
Prepare histological slides from tissue sections for microscopic examination and diagnosis by pathologists.
Associate's degree
Healthcare Practitioners & Technical
Histotechnologists
Also called: Histology Lab Manager (Histology Laboratory Manager), Histology Specialist, Histology Technologist, Histotechnologist
- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- 43% of workers surveyed
- Preparation needed
- Considerable Preparation Needed
- Job Zone 4 of 5
- Programs in this directory
- 272
- that lead to this career
What histotechnologists do
Apply knowledge of health and disease causes to evaluate new laboratory techniques and procedures to examine tissue samples. Process and prepare histological slides from tissue sections for microscopic examination and diagnosis by pathologists. May solve technical or instrument problems or assist with research studies.
Typical tasks
- 1Embed tissue specimens into paraffin wax blocks, or infiltrate tissue specimens with wax.
- 2Cut sections of body tissues for microscopic examination, using microtomes.
- 3Stain tissue specimens with dyes or other chemicals to make cell details visible under microscopes.
- 4Compile materials for distribution to pathologists, such as surgical working drafts, requisitions, and slides.
- 5Compile and maintain records of preventive maintenance and instrument performance checks according to schedule and regulations.
- 6Perform tests by following physician instructions.
- 7Operate computerized laboratory equipment to dehydrate, decalcify, or microincinerate tissue samples.
- 8Prepare substances, such as reagents and dilution, and stains for histological specimens according to protocols.
- 9Resolve problems with laboratory equipment and instruments, such as microscopes, mass spectrometers, microtomes, immunostainers, tissue processors, embedding centers, and water baths.
- 10Examine slides under microscopes to ensure tissue preparation meets laboratory requirements.
Key skills
- Reading Comprehension3.5/5
- Critical Thinking3.4/5
- Judgment and Decision Making3.4/5
- Monitoring3.4/5
- Active Learning3.2/5
- Active Listening3.2/5
- Complex Problem Solving3.2/5
- Operations Monitoring3.2/5
Importance rated by workers in this career (1–5).
Knowledge areas
- Biology4.0/5
- Production and Processing3.5/5
- Chemistry3.5/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.4/5
- English Language3.2/5
- Administrative3.0/5
Importance rated by workers in this career (1–5).
Technology used
- MEDITECH software
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
How to become one
- Education
- The most common level among workers surveyed is a bachelor's degree (43%). Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
- Experience
- A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
- Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Where to study
Subjects that prepare for this career:
Showing 12 of 272 matching programs.
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