How to Be Histology Processing Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Dec 11, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of a Histology Processing Technician is vital in the field of medical research and diagnosis. They are responsible for preparing tissue samples for diagnostic procedures, such as biopsies and autopsies. By carrying out accurate processing and analysis of the samples, they help medical professionals to diagnose and treat diseases.

This can have a direct impact on patient outcomes, as it helps to ensure that they receive the most effective treatment available. The technician's work also helps to advance the medical field by providing valuable data and research materials for further study. As such, their precise work is essential in improving disease diagnosis and treatment, ultimately leading to better patient health outcomes.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma. Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent to become a Histology Processing Technician.
Pursue Additional Education or Training. Many employers prefer applicants who have completed a postsecondary program in histotechnology or laboratory science, or a related field.
Obtain Certification. Obtaining certification as a Histology Processing Technician is not required for the position, but it may enhance the applicant's job prospects. Certifications can be obtained through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Society for Histotechnology (NSH).
Obtain On-the-Job Training. Once hired, Histology Processing Technicians are usually provided with on-the-job training. This may include learning how to operate and maintain lab equipment, perform tests, and interpret test results.
Advancement Opportunities. Experienced Histology Processing Technicians may be eligible for positions such as Laboratory Supervisor or Lab Manager.

The number of skilled and qualified Histology Processing Technicians is increasing due to the increasing demand for medical laboratory services. As more medical laboratories open and expand, there is a need for more highly trained professionals to handle the complex tasks involved in the preparation of tissue samples for microscopic examination. To become a skilled and qualified Histology Processing Technician, one must complete an accredited program in histology or medical laboratory science, receive certification from a recognized certifying body, and maintain continuing education requirements.

In addition, employers look for technicians who have experience in the field, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to patient safety. With the right combination of education, training, and experience, a Histology Processing Technician can expect to find employment in a variety of medical settings and enjoy a long and successful career.

You may want to check Clinical Histologist, Histology Technical Assistant, and Histology Slide Scanning Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Prepare tissue specimens for histology processing, including cutting, mounting and staining.
Operate laboratory equipment such as microtomes, cryostats, and slide staining machines.
Follow detailed protocols for specimen preparation, including tissue processing, embedding, sectioning and staining.
Perform quality control on stained specimens and ensure accuracy of results.
Maintain accurate and detailed records of all work performed.
Monitor inventory levels and order supplies as needed.
Clean and maintain laboratory equipment.
Assist pathologists in the interpretation of histology slides.
Prepare reports and presentations summarizing results of experiments and analyses.
Adhere to all safety regulations and follow established laboratory protocols.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of tissue processing techniques, including embedding, sectioning, and staining.
Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols, including the proper handling of hazardous materials.
Ability to effectively use laboratory equipment such as tissue processors, microtomes, and microscopes.
Ability to accurately interpret histology images and diagnose pathological conditions.
Ability to maintain accurate records and document findings of tissue processing.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
Good communication and interpersonal skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office or other software applications used to analyze and report histology data.
Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance procedures and regulations.

The Histology Processing Technician must have excellent attention to detail as they are responsible for preparing tissue samples for microscopic examination. They must be able to follow instructions precisely, as well as accurately and quickly process the samples. In addition, they must have good organizational skills to keep track of the tissue samples and ensure that they are processed in the correct order.

Furthermore, strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for interacting with other health professionals and providing excellent patient care. As a result of the high level of responsibility and attention to detail required, Histology Processing Technicians must be knowledgeable and highly skilled in order to ensure that the tissue samples are processed properly and accurately.

Specimen Receptionist, Embedding Technician, and Flow Cytometry Technologist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working as a Histology Processing Technician?
How familiar are you with tissue processing and staining techniques?
What do you know about the principles of histology and tissue preparation?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot and solve a problem in a histology laboratory.
Have you ever had any experience with quality assurance programs?
Are you comfortable working with hazardous chemicals?
How do you handle working with tight deadlines?
What safety protocols do you follow when working with biological specimens?
In what ways have you contributed to the efficiency of a histology laboratory?
Are you comfortable using microscopes and other laboratory equipment?

Common Tools in Industry

Microtome. An instrument used to cut tissue samples into thin sections, typically less than 10 micrometers in thickness (eg: Leica RM2235 Microtome).
Rotary Evaporator. A laboratory instrument used to remove solvents from a sample by evaporation in a controlled environment (eg: Heidolph Hei-VAP Precision Rotary Evaporator).
Embedding Center. A laboratory machine that prepares tissue samples for sectioning by embedding them in a solidifying resin (eg: Leica EG1160 Embedding Center).
Microscope. An instrument used to magnify and observe extremely small objects (eg: Olympus BX53 Upright Microscope).
Histology Slide Stainer. A laboratory instrument used to stain tissue samples on glass slides for microscopic viewing (eg: Sakura Tissue-Tek VI Automated Slide Stainer).
Cryostat Microtome. An instrument used to cut frozen tissue samples into thin sections (eg: Reichert Jung Cryostat Microtome).
Paraffin Dispenser. A laboratory device used to dispense paraffin wax onto tissue samples to aid in the preparation process (eg: Reichert Jung Paraffin Dispenser).
Tissue Processor. A laboratory device used to process tissue samples for histology and pathology (eg: Thermo Scientific Shandon Citadel Tissue Processor).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS)
Association of Clinical Histology Technicians (ACHT)
National Society for Histotechnology (NSH)
International Federation of Biomedical Laboratory Science (IFBLS)
American Society for Cytotechnology (ASCT)
International Academy of Pathology (IAP)
United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology (USCAP)
National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)
European Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ESCLS)
International Association of Medical Laboratory Technologists (IAMLT)

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Common Important Terms

Histology. The study of the microscopic anatomy of cells, tissues and organs.
Histological Techniques. A set of laboratory methods used to prepare biological samples for microscopic examination.
Tissue Processing. The process of preparing a sample for microscopic examination. This involves the steps of fixation, dehydration, clearing and embedding.
Embedding. The process of encasing a tissue in a wax block or resin to allow for sectioning.
Microtome. A device used to cut thin slices of tissue for microscopic examination.
Staining. The process of applying dyes to tissues to make them visible under a light microscope.
Immunohistochemistry. The process of using antibodies as probes to detect specific antigens in a tissue sample.
Cryosectioning. The process of cutting thin slices of frozen tissue for microscopic examination.
Cryopreservation. The process of preserving biological material at very low temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Histology Processing Technician?

A Histology Processing Technician is a laboratory professional who specializes in preparing tissue samples for microscopic examination. This includes tissue fixation, sectioning, staining, and mounting of tissue specimens.

What qualifications are required for the role?

Most employers require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent and a certificate in histology from an accredited institution. Clinical laboratory experience and knowledge of laboratory safety practices are also important qualifications.

What types of duties do Histology Processing Technicians perform?

Typical duties include operating laboratory equipment, preparing tissue slides, performing microscopic examination, and documenting results. Other duties include maintaining laboratory supplies, cleaning and sterilizing instruments, and preparing reports.

What is the average salary for a Histology Processing Technician?

The average salary for a Histology Processing Technician is $41,965 per year according to PayScale.com. Salaries can vary based on location, education, experience, and other factors.

What are the benefits of becoming a Histology Processing Technician?

Becoming a Histology Processing Technician offers many benefits, including job stability, competitive pay, and the opportunity to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. Additionally, histology technicians may develop expertise in a specific field such as pathology or cancer research.