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Histotechnologist or Histologic Technician

What is a Histotechnologist or Histologic Technician?

Example of Histotechnologist or Histologic Technician Job Prepare histologic slides from tissue sections for microscopic examination and diagnosis by pathologists. May assist in research studies.

What Do Histotechnologists and Histologic Technicians Do On a Daily Basis?

  • Perform electron microscopy or mass spectrometry to analyze specimens.
  • Prepare or use prepared tissue specimens for teaching, research or diagnostic purposes.
  • Supervise histology laboratory activities.
  • Mount tissue specimens on glass slides.
  • Teach students or other staff.
  • Cut sections of body tissues for microscopic examination using microtomes.

Qualities of a Histotechnologist or Histologic Technician

When polled, Histotechnologists and Histologic Technicians say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Types of Histotechnologist or Histologic Technician Jobs

  • Histologic Aide
  • Clinical Laboratory Manager
  • Pathology Supervisor
  • Charge Histotechnologist
  • Histotechnologist

Are There Job Opportunities for Histotechnologists and Histologic Technicians?

In the United States, there were 171,400 jobs for Histotechnologist or Histologic Technician in 2016. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 11.6% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 19,800 new jobs for Histotechnologist or Histologic Technician by 2026. The BLS estimates 12,900 yearly job openings in this field.

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The states with the most job growth for Histotechnologist or Histologic Technician are Utah, Colorado, and Arizona. Watch out if you plan on working in Rhode Island, Connecticut, or Illinois. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

Tools & Technologies Used by Histotechnologists and Histologic Technicians

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Histotechnologists and Histologic Technicians:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Office
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft Access
  • Spreadsheet software
  • MEDITECH software
  • Presentation software
  • Cerner Millennium
  • Laboratory information system LIS

How to Become a Histotechnologist or Histologic Technician

Education needed to be a Histotechnologist or Histologic Technician:

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How Long Does it Take to Become a Histotechnologist or Histologic Technician?

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Other Jobs You May be Interested In

Career changers with experience as a Histotechnologist or Histologic Technician sometimes find work in one of the following fields:

References:

Image Credit: Staff Sgt. Jerilyn Quintanilla via U.S. Air Force photo

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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