How to become A Histotechnician

Histotechnicians work out of labs to prepare human or animal tissue samples for examination by a pathologist. The microscopic slides thus prepared play a vital role in solving crimes, diagnosing and treating various diseases and better understanding products such as plant foods.

• Histology Technician
• Histologist
• Histologic Technician

What do Histotechnicians do?

A Histotechnician would typically need to:

• Play a critical role in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases by turning clinical and research tissue samples into microscopic slides
• Receive, access and prepare thin layers of tissue specimens while adhering to standard quality control and safety practices
• Preserve, embed, section and conduct routine slide staining as per organisational and departmental policies
• Place the specimen on wax blocks or soak the tissue in wax so specific cells and structures are visible for microscopic examinations by a pathologist
• Assist the resident pathologist with the gross examination of specific specimens, autopsies and identification of tissue structures and their staining characteristics
• Operate automated analysers or perform manual tests per detailed instructions 
• Record log sheets and temperatures, using Microsoft word and excel software; archive blocks, slides and seal blocks
• Recognise factors that affect procedures and results; keep appropriate personnel informed of issues and resolutions; take appropriate action to rectify errors
• Learn the basics of special light microscopic stains
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance of equipment and instruments; refer to appropriate sources for repairs, if necessary
• Set up and clean up the lab, work on inventory levels for required products and assist other lab or medical staff, if needed
• Collaborate with laboratory personnel and other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care
• Interact with patients and the public in a professional and ethical manner
• Perform special procedures, if required; assist in training new staff and students under the lead tech’s or manager’s supervision

Histotechnicians work in various laboratory settings in hospitals, government agencies, for-profit diagnostic labs, public health departments, medical institutions, public health clinics, research institutions and industrial workspaces.

The labs are known for their clean, well-organised and temperature-controlled work environment. Histotechnicians usually work under the supervision of medical and clinical laboratory technologists or laboratory managers.

Histotechnicians put in around 40 hours per week. You may work different shifts at the outset but may get to work regular hours as you gain experience and seniority. 

Take note that if you choose to work in clinical pathology or private laboratories, you

may need to begin work early enough that the slides are ready for the pathologists when they start their workday.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Histotechnicians can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting employers directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies. Part-time work and freelancing are viable options.

Histotechnicians are generally employed by:

• Clinical Pathology Laboratories
• Hospitals
• Government Agencies
• For-Profit Diagnostic Laboratories
• Veterinary Laboratories
• Plant/Marine Histology Laboratories
• Pharmacology Laboratories
• Public Health Departments
• Medical Institutions
• Public Health Clinics
• Research Institutions
• The Industrial Sectors

Healthcare associations, such as The American Society for Clinical Pathology, provide unparalleled networking and educational opportunities. They offer all the certification courses members will need throughout their professional careers.

Affiliated Histotechnicians may attend conventions, seminars, and dinners frequented by peers, mentors, and other industry leaders. The events help them keep up with the newest breakthroughs and latest developments in the field, including plum jobs.

• The heavy workload of routine but essential tasks to accomplish
• Probable exposure to dangerous chemicals and infectious diseases
• Transcription errors and “tissue floaters” can lead to misidentification of patient samples
• Adoption of new technology

Candidates with at least a year’s experience conducting average or advanced lab procedures, especially those related to tissue, will have a fair chance of employment as a Histotechnician. This period of clinical lab work will help you get a better insight into the process and the work environment.

High school diploma holders who wish to become Histotechnicians need at least two years of related work experience.

Read about the profession and interview/job shadow experts working in histology to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

A high school diploma or equivalent can fetch you an entry-level position. However, most aspiring Histotechnicians seek an associate degree in applied science, biology, chemistry and other science-related fields. A bachelor’s degree in the areas mentioned above is a less common option.

It will take you about two years to complete the classroom instruction and practical training included in accredited associate degree programs from a community college.

An accredited histology technician certificate program will round off your education quite well.

Some associate degree programs include a clinical histology rotation in a medical facility, enabling students to acquire the histology technician certificate and an associate degree in one go.

Take courses in biology, chemistry, math and computer science at the high school level.

Accredited certification in clinical pathology and allied health education from an objective and reputed organisation is strongly recommended. It can help you stand out in a competitive job market, carry a significant salary premium of up to 18 per cent, increase your chances of advancement, and allow you to become an independent consultant.

Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics. A combination of education, experience, and testing is generally required to gain certification, though requirements differ from region to region.

Employers prefer applicants with a license. However, some laboratory facilities enable the licensing of their new hires. Exact licensure requirements vary across regions, although typically, it requires an application, processing fees, an examination, and relevant education and experience.

Treat this role as a springboard that allows you to train and gain the skills required for career advancement in the field. Employees with experience and consistently high levels of performance may eventually become Lead Technicians or Managers or Supervisors.

You can choose to specialise in areas such as muscle or kidney biopsies, immunohistochemistry staining, dermatology specimens and frozen sectioning.

Further education can qualify you to apply for the role of a Histotechnologist with access to more advanced forms of testing and higher salary potential. You can also move into education, test development, quality assurance and management. 

Candidates with an associate degree in a science-related subject, desirable certification and experience in a clinical lab have the best job prospects.

Most Histotechnicians learn on the job from observation and practice under more experienced colleagues who provide support during various procedures.  

Continuing professional development (CPD) is essential in the healthcare sector for public wellbeing and career progression. It embraces new learning objectives, methodologies, and novel technological developments, especially in education, management, and IT.

Reflective learning, interaction with peer groups, comprehensive inclusion, workshops, and professional publications serve to educate, influence, support, and foster lifelong enlightenment in all career-grade Histotechnicians. You will remain current in the field by completing all mandatory training modules and regular review of departmental policies/procedures.

Histotechnicians who wish to go into pure research can expect support and additional training from the academic institution or from Vitae, a non-profit global leader with over 50 years of experience in enhancing the skills of researchers. In partnership with governments, funders of research, professional bodies, trusts & foundations, universities, and research institutes, Vitae offers training, resources, events, consultancy, and membership.

Tools of the Trade

Histotechnicians use histological knives, tissue choppers, microtomes, automated tissue processors, automated cover slippers and computers to discharge their duties.

Preparing a Microscope Slide For Examination

The Histotechnician first freezes the tissue sample, cuts it into wafer-thin slices and mounts them on a microscope slide. A specific dye is chosen from a given range to stain the tissue, so abnormalities are readily visible under the microscope.

Domains of Specialisation

You can choose to specialise in human tissue and work in the medical field or opt for marine biology or veterinary science. 

Current Scenario

An ageing population translates into a greater need to diagnose medical conditions through laboratory procedures. Add in an increased need for prenatal testing for genetic disorders, and you will realise that Histotechnicians will continue to be in demand to operate the appropriate equipment.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Histotechnicians have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

A full-time Histotechnician, on the other hand, has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

The body of knowledge about cells currently doubles every seven years.

Histotechnicians have a unique job - one that is at entry-level, requires on-the-job training and is performed behind the scenes. And yet, this job lays the vital foundation for ensuring a healthy and pleasant life for almost all the inhabitants of this planet.

Make the best of all opportunities to learn something new; take on special projects and committees that focus on areas as diverse as emergency planning and new lab design.