Histotechnologist / Histotechnician
Quick Facts
Median Salary$66,797
Most Common EducationAssociate's degree
Projected 10-Year Growth+26.81%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment
What They Do
A Histotechnologist or Histotechnician works in a medical laboratory and prepares samples of human or animal tissue for examination under a microscope.
Core Tasks:
- Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
- Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.
- Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.
- Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.
- Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.
- Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
- Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital disabilities, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
- Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.
- Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.
- Select or prepare specimens and media for cell cultures using aseptic techniques, knowledge of medium components, or cell nutritional requirements.
- Input details of specimen processing, analysis, and technical issues into logs or laboratory information systems (LIS).
- Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.
- Input details of specimens into logs or computer systems.
- Select appropriate methods of preparation and storage of media to maintain potential of hydrogen (pH), sterility, or ability to support growth.
- Describe chromosome, FISH and aCGH analysis results in International System of Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN) language.
- Develop, implement, and monitor quality control and quality assurance programs to ensure accurate and precise test performance and reports.
- Evaluate appropriateness of received specimens for requested tests.
- Stain slides to make chromosomes visible for microscopy.
- Create chromosome images using computer imaging systems.
- Determine optimal time sequences and methods for manual or robotic cell harvests.
- Recognize and report abnormalities in the color, size, shape, composition, or pattern of cells.
- Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions.
- Select banding methods to permit identification of chromosome pairs.
- Maintain laboratory equipment such as photomicroscopes, inverted microscopes, and standard darkroom equipment.
- Identify appropriate methods of specimen collection, preservation, or transport.
- Archive case documentation and study materials as required by regulations and laws.
- Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.
- Develop and implement training programs for trainees, medical students, resident physicians or post-doctoral fellows.
What to expect as a Histotechnologist / Histotechnician
1Earn a Associate's degree
36% of people achieve this level of education.
2Gain skills and experience
See Histotechnologist / Histotechnician related courses on Tallo
3Land a job
1255 openings for Histotechnologists / Histotechnicians
Career Progression
in United States (Nation)
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