Some tasks in this role may be augmented by AI, but human oversight and interpersonal skills remain important.
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:Clinical Lab Manager (Clinical Laboratory Manager), Histocompatibility Technologist, Histologist, Histology Lab Manager (Histology Laboratory Manager), Histology Specialist, Histology Technologist, Histotechnician, Histotechnologist +1 more
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.
Identify tissue structures or cell components to be used in the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of diseases.
Supervise histology laboratory activities.
Teach students or other staff.
Supplemental Tasks (1)
Perform electron microscopy or mass spectrometry to analyze specimens.
Emerging Tasks
New and evolving responsibilities for this role:
Cut sections of body tissues for microscopic examination, using microtomes or cryostats.
Select and maintain controls for stains.
Education & Training
Job Zone 4Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
Education: 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.
On-the-Job Training: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Education Level Distribution
Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.
Bachelor's Degree
43%
Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree)
19%
Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in agriculture or natural resources, computer services, personal or culinary services, engineering technologies, healthcare, construction trades, mechanic and repair technologies, or precision production)
14%
Master's Degree
10%
High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED)
5%
Some College Courses
5%
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate - awarded for completion of an organized program of study; designed for people who have completed a Baccalaureate degree but do not meet the requirements of academic degrees carrying the title of Master.