Histotechnologists and Histologic Technicians

• 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.
• Embed tissue specimens into paraffin wax blocks or infiltrate tissue specimens with wax.
• Mount tissue specimens on glass slides.
• Examine slides under microscopes to ensure tissue preparation meets laboratory requirements.
• Freeze tissue specimens.
• Perform procedures associated with histochemistry to prepare specimens for immunofluorescence or microscopy.
• Operate computerized laboratory equipment to dehydrate, decalcify, or microincinerate tissue samples.
• Maintain laboratory equipment such as microscopes, mass spectrometers, microtomes, immunostainers, tissue processors, embedding centers, and water baths.
• Supervise histology laboratory activities.
• Identify tissue structures or cell components to be used in the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of diseases.
• Prepare or use prepared tissue specimens for teaching, research or diagnostic purposes.
• Teach students or other staff.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Histotechnologists and Histologic Technicians.

• 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.
• Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
• 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.
• Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
• Time Management - Managing one's own time and the time of others.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Histotechnologists and Histologic Technicians.