Histology Technician Duties
SUMMARY
This is technical work involving the preparation of tissue
specimens for pathological examination.
Work involves responsibility for accuracy in preparing, cutting,
staining, and mounting tissue sections to assist pathologists in
making correct diagnosis of patient's disease and cause of
death; in teaching pathology and in studies of pathologic
phenomena. Employees of this class may assist in training lower
level technicians and may ensure that work progresses in the
absence of a supervisor. Work is performed in accordance with
standard laboratory practices and procedures and technical
guidance is available for more unusual cases of technical
problems. Work is performed under the supervision of a technical
superior who reviews procedures and results.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Receives specimens of tissue from surgical or diagnostic cases
and from autopsies; sorts them in accordance with priority and
difficulty of work and identifies them by number.
Fills electric tissue float; turns on tissue dryer; sets up
metal embedding blocks.
Pours hot paraffin into blocks; places tissue and autopsy ticket
in blocks; places blocks into iced water; removes molded
paraffin blocks; trims blocks; puts tissues in numerical order;
puts tissue on metal block holders.
Sets up microtome; cuts tissue; floats tissue on electric water
bath; picks up tissue on slide; dries tissue on electric dryer.
Stains tissue; places coverslip on slide; prepares case card.
Prepares solutions and reagents in accordance with standard
formulae; sharpens and hones microtome knives; cleans and
maintains laboratory equipment; keeps routine records of work
performed.
Assists in training lower level technicians; embeds, sections,
and stains extra large blocks which must be processed by hand;
assists pathologists in dissecting surgical specimens; prepares
monthly reports.
Performs related work as required.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Graduation from a standard high school, including course work in
the natural sciences; previous laboratory experience; or any
equivalent of training and experience.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Considerable knowledge of the principles and procedures of
laboratory science.
Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of
histologic techniques.
Ability to perform assigned tasks according to exactly
prescribed procedures and to make accurate observations of
results.
Skill in laboratory manipulative techniques.
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