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O*NET-SOC 29-2011.04

Histotechnologists

Apply knowledge of health and disease causes to evaluate new laboratory techniques and procedures to examine tissue samples. Process and prepare histological slides from tissue sections for microscopic examination and diagnosis by pathologists. May solve technical or instrument problems or assist with research studies.

From O*NET 30.3

Tasks

From O*NET 30.3, by importance, as O*NET OnLine lists them

Free · O*NET 30.3
  1. Embed tissue specimens into paraffin wax blocks, or infiltrate tissue specimens with wax.Core22781
  2. Cut sections of body tissues for microscopic examination, using microtomes.Core22780
  3. Stain tissue specimens with dyes or other chemicals to make cell details visible under microscopes.Core22791
  4. Compile materials for distribution to pathologists, such as surgical working drafts, requisitions, and slides.Core22779
  5. Compile and maintain records of preventive maintenance and instrument performance checks according to schedule and regulations.Core22778
  6. Perform tests by following physician instructions.Core22787
  7. Operate computerized laboratory equipment to dehydrate, decalcify, or microincinerate tissue samples.Core22784
  8. Prepare substances, such as reagents and dilution, and stains for histological specimens according to protocols.Core22789
  9. Resolve problems with laboratory equipment and instruments, such as microscopes, mass spectrometers, microtomes, immunostainers, tissue processors, embedding centers, and water baths.Core22790
  10. Examine slides under microscopes to ensure tissue preparation meets laboratory requirements.Core22782
  11. Prepare or use prepared tissue specimens for teaching, research or diagnostic purposes.Core22788
  12. Perform procedures associated with histochemistry to prepare specimens for immunofluorescence or microscopy.Core22786
  13. Identify tissue structures or cell components to be used in the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of diseases.Core22783
  14. Supervise histology laboratory activities.Core22792
  15. Teach students or other staff.Core22793
  16. Perform electron microscopy or mass spectrometry to analyze specimens.Supplemental22785

Technology Skills

From O*NET 30.3, 10 examples in 7 categories, 6 Hot Technology

Free · O*NET 30.3

Label making software

  • Brady Specimen Labeling System
  • Specimen labeling system software

Medical software

  • Cerner Millennium
  • Laboratory information system LIS
  • MEDITECH softwareHot Technology

Data base user interface and query software

  • Microsoft AccessHot Technology

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft ExcelHot Technology

Office suite software

  • Microsoft Office softwareHot Technology

Electronic mail software

  • Microsoft OutlookHot Technology

Word processing software

  • Microsoft WordHot Technology

Detailed Work Activities

From O*NET 30.3, under their work activities; open one for the AI skills Workforce Automation maps to it

Free · O*NET 30.3

Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials

  • Test biological specimens to gather information about patient conditions.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Analyzing Data or Information

  • Analyze laboratory specimens to detect abnormalities or other problems.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Analyze laboratory findings.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Performing General Physical Activities

  • Prepare medications or medical solutions.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Handling and Moving Objects

  • Collect biological specimens from patients.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet
  • Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Controlling Machines and Processes

  • Operate laboratory equipment to analyze medical samples.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment

  • Maintain medical laboratory equipment.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Documenting/Recording Information

  • Maintain repair or maintenance records.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Training and Teaching Others

  • Train medical providers.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates

  • Supervise technical medical personnel.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Monitoring and Controlling Resources

  • Distribute supplies to workers.
    WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

    WFA (Workforce Automation) analysis: 0 of 0 AI skills mapped to this activity, by automation level

    • No tools yet
    • Not mapped yet

Job Zone

From O*NET 30.3

Free · O*NET 30.3

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Workforce Automation analysis, not part of the source

WFA coverage: AI skills for this job

WFA · Part of the paid plan when accounts open

Pilot mapping: these skill links come from our seed list and haven’t been reviewed yet. Expect them to change as each one is checked.

DWAs covered by an AI skill0 of 12
Distinct tools0
Level mix
  • No tools yet

Equivalents

NICE work roles, with their DCWF equivalents

Mapped to this job by the ETO-CSET NICE/O*NET crosswalk (2024); roles from NICE Framework Components v2.2.0, DCWF equivalents from DoD DCWF Tool v5.3 (2026-09-25)

Free · NICE Framework Components v2.2.0 and DoD DCWF Tool v5.3 (2026-09-25)

No NICE work role maps to this job.