Occupation
Histotechnologists
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.
$62,930 medianBelow-avg outlookBachelor's typical
O*NET 31.0 · 29-2011.04
A typical week, in the words of people in the job
- 01Embed tissue specimens into paraffin wax blocks, or infiltrate tissue specimens with wax.
- 02Cut sections of body tissues for microscopic examination, using microtomes.
- 03Stain tissue specimens with dyes or other chemicals to make cell details visible under microscopes.
- 04Compile materials for distribution to pathologists, such as surgical working drafts, requisitions, and slides.
- 05Compile and maintain records of preventive maintenance and instrument performance checks according to schedule and regulations.
- 06Perform tests by following physician instructions.
- 07Operate computerized laboratory equipment to dehydrate, decalcify, or microincinerate tissue samples.
- 08Prepare substances, such as reagents and dilution, and stains for histological specimens according to protocols.
- 09Resolve 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.
- 11Prepare or use prepared tissue specimens for teaching, research or diagnostic purposes.
- 12Perform procedures associated with histochemistry to prepare specimens for immunofluorescence or microscopy.
Task statements ranked by how many workers report them · O*NET 31.0
What the posting will be called
Histology Lab Manager (Histology Laboratory Manager)Histology SpecialistHistology TechnologistHistotechnologistClinical Lab Manager (Clinical Laboratory Manager)
Titles reported by employers for this occupation. Search job boards with these, not the O*NET name.
Knowledge the job leans on
BiologyProduction and ProcessingChemistryCustomer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageAdministrativeEducation and TrainingMathematics
Skills that carry over from service
Judgment and Decision MakingComplex Problem SolvingOperations MonitoringTime ManagementCoordinationSocial PerceptivenessSystems EvaluationQuality Control Analysis