Histotechnologists

What the job really is

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.

At a glance

• Sector: Healthcare Practitioners
• O*NET-SOC code: 29-2011
• O*NET job zone: 4 — considerable preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• 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.
• Prepare substances, such as reagents and dilution, and stains for histological specimens according to protocols.
• Resolve problems with laboratory equipment and instruments, such as microscopes, mass spectrometers, microtomes, immunostainers, tissue processors, embedding centers, and water baths.
• Examine slides under microscopes to ensure tissue preparation meets laboratory requirements.
• Prepare or use prepared tissue specimens for teaching, research or diagnostic purposes.
• Perform procedures associated with histochemistry to prepare specimens for immunofluorescence or microscopy.

Tools and technology

MEDITECH software, Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Word, Anti-roll plates, Automated coverslippers, Automated tissue sectioning systems, Back sledge microtomes, Brady Specimen Labeling System, Cerner Millennium

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Histology Technicians
• Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
• Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
• Cytogenetic Technologists
• Cytotechnologists
• Microbiologists
• Phlebotomists
• Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 4 (considerable preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Histotechnologists — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.