Career Overview
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.
Also Known As
- Histology Lab Manager (Histology Laboratory Manager)
- Histology Specialist
- Histology Technologist
- Histotechnologist
Alternate Job Titles
- Clinical Lab Manager (Clinical Laboratory Manager)
- Grossing Technician (Grossing Tech)
- Histocompatibility Technologist
- Histologist
- Histology Lab Manager (Histology Laboratory Manager)
- Histology Specialist
- Histology Technologist
- Histotechnician
- Histotechnologist
- Mohs Technician (Micrographically Oriented Histographic Surgery Technician)
What You'll Do
In this role, your typical responsibilities include:
- Embed tissue specimens into paraffin wax blocks, or infiltrate tissue specimens with wax.
- Cut sections of body tissues for microscopic examination, using microtomes.
- Stain tissue specimens with dyes or other chemicals to make cell details visible under microscopes.
- Compile materials for distribution to pathologists, such as surgical working drafts, requisitions, and slides.
- Compile and maintain records of preventive maintenance and instrument performance checks according to schedule and regulations.
- Perform tests by following physician instructions.
- Operate computerized laboratory equipment to dehydrate, decalcify, or microincinerate tissue samples.
Emerging Responsibilities
As this field evolves, you may also:
- Cut sections of body tissues for microscopic examination, using microtomes or cryostats.
- Select and maintain controls for stains.
Knowledge You'll Use
You'll need solid knowledge in these areas:
- Biology
- Production and Processing
Key Abilities
This career requires key abilities in:
- Near Vision
- Written Comprehension
- Oral Comprehension
- Arm-Hand Steadiness
- Oral Expression
- Written Expression
- Problem Sensitivity
- Selective Attention
- Deductive Reasoning
- Information Ordering
Work Style
People who excel in this career typically demonstrate:
- Attention to Detail
- Dependability
- Cautiousness
- Integrity
- Intellectual Curiosity
Education & Preparation
Typical Education: Bachelor's Degree
Related Work Experience Needed: Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years
On-the-Job Training: Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months
Education Details: Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Experience Required: 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.
Technology You'll Use
Popular Technologies & Software
- MEDITECH software
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
Tools & Equipment
- Anti-roll plates
- Automated coverslippers
- Automated tissue sectioning systems
- Back sledge microtomes
- Clinical freezing microtomes
- Cryostat microtomes
- Cytocentrifuges
- Desktop computers
- Drying ovens
- Electronic laboratory balances
- Histology diamond knives
- Histology glass knives
- Incubators
- Knife sharpeners
- Label printers
Work Environment
- Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Time Pressure
- Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
Related Careers
If you're interested in this career, you might also consider:
Histology Technicians
Education: Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree)
Median Salary: Varies
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
Education: Bachelor's Degree
Median Salary: Varies
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
Education: Bachelor's Degree
Median Salary: Varies
Cytogenetic Technologists
Education: Bachelor's Degree
Median Salary: Varies
Cytotechnologists
Education: Bachelor's Degree
Median Salary: Varies
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Occupational data sourced from the O*NET OnLine database, developed by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. Wage data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2024.