HISTOLOGY TECHNICIAN SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND JOB REQUIREMENTS

Published: Sep 10, 2025 - The Histology Technician has experience performing routine and specialized histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) procedures, ensuring accuracy and compliance with laboratory safety standards and regulatory requirements (CAP, CLIA, JCAHO). This role requires HT/HTL (ASCP) certification or eligibility, completion of a NAACLS-accredited program, and hands-on experience in tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, digital pathology platforms, and Laboratory Information Systems (LIS). The technician also demonstrates strong organizational and communication skills, proficiency with Microsoft Office, and the ability to troubleshoot and maintain histology/IHC instrumentation in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Essential Hard and Soft Skills for a Standout Histology Technician Resume
  • Specimen Accessioning
  • Tissue Embedding
  • Microtomy Sectioning
  • H&E Staining
  • Special Staining
  • Frozen Sectioning
  • Reagent Preparation
  • Equipment Maintenance
  • Quality Control
  • Tissue Processing
  • Attention Detail
  • Time Management
  • Problem Solving
  • Workflow Prioritization
  • Cost Containment
  • Process Improvement
  • Communication Skills
  • Team Collaboration
  • Client Interaction
  • Regulatory Compliance

Summary of Histology Technician Knowledge and Qualifications on Resume

1. BS in Biomedical Sciences with 5 years of Experience

  • Experience working in a histology laboratory environment.
  • Working knowledge of Molecular Histopathology.
  • Appropriate level of understanding of applicable regulations.
  • Experience with immunohistochemistry (IHC) and in situ hybridization (ISH) techniques.
  • Knowledge of tissue processing, embedding, and sectioning protocols, ensuring sample quality and consistency.
  • Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS) and digital pathology platforms.
  • Ability to operate laboratory equipment and apparatus.
  • Ability to learn new technology and concepts.
  • Concise and accurate reporting of technical data and information.
  • Strong ability to troubleshoot.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to train and mentor junior staff or students in histology techniques.

2. BS in Biology with 3 years of Experience

  • Certified Histotechnologist (ASCP, HTL) or Histotechnician (ASCP, HT).
  • QIHC (ASCP) qualification in Immunohistochemistry.
  • Previous hands-on experience working in a histology laboratory.
  • Strong spatial ability to accurately perceive three-dimensional and geometric relationships when cutting paraffin blocks and creating embedding molds.
  • Excellent manual dexterity for handling delicate, micro-thin tissue sections and mounting them onto microscope slides.
  • Accurate color discrimination skills to assess the diagnostic quality of staining and ensure proper definition of tissue features.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Experience drafting laboratory SOPs and other Quality Management System (QMS) documentation.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and other standard productivity software.
  • Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced laboratory environment.
  • Proven ability to work effectively in a collaborative team setting and across departments.

3. BS in Medical Laboratory Technology with 4 years of Experience

  • Experience as a histotechnician or histotechnologist working in a lab where histotechniques are used.
  • QIHC certification or IHC experience performing all aspects of IHC and routine histological techniques.
  • Knowledge of pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical efforts in pathology and histology.
  • Knowledge of QC/QA documentation practices to meet compliance standards for CAP and clinical studies.
  • Skilled in grossing clinical biopsy samples, processing, embedding, microtomy, H&E staining, and cover slipping of the same.
  • Ability to understand and troubleshoot histotechniques, lend technical support and insights for histology practices to CDx and clients.
  • Ability to demonstrate extensive knowledge of IHC theory and troubleshooting.
  • Must be capable of validating new instruments, new assays, and routine histology techniques.
  • Ability to notice subtle changes in samples, staining, or documentation that could impact diagnostic accuracy.
  • Skilled at organizing workflow to handle multiple specimens and deadlines efficiently without compromising quality.
  • Strong communication skills, and can work effectively with pathologists, lab technologists, and research teams to ensure smooth communication and integration of findings.

4. BS in Genetics with 2 years of Experience

  • Possess HT or HTL (ASCP).
  • Proven experience in a clinical histology laboratory performing high complexity and high throughput testing.
  • Proficient in fixation, tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, special stains, immunohistochemistry, grossing, and overall lab operations.
  • Strong background in clinical histology practices with demonstrated ability to meet quality and productivity standards.
  • Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including standing for extended periods, repetitive tasks, and handling laboratory equipment and specimens.
  • A positive attitude, professionalism, and strong communication skills across the department and hospital.
  • Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance, with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and the ability to make decisions promptly.
  • Capable of performing effectively in fast-paced or high-pressure environments.
  • Must adhere to Standard Precautions and consistently use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Able to stay current with advances in histotechnology techniques, instrumentation, and professional development through CE credits and training.

5. BS in Health Sciences with 1 year of Experience

  • Must be eligible for certification by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) in the field of Histology (HT).
  • Experience with fixation, embedding, microtomy, and staining protocols, including routine H&E and special stains.
  • Proficiency in Immunohistochemistry (IHC).
  • Familiarity with Laboratory Information Systems (LIS).
  • Skilled in maintaining accurate records, monitoring quality indicators, and adhering to CLIA, CAP, and other regulatory standards.
  • Hands-on ability to calibrate, clean, and resolve technical issues with microtomes, cryostats, and automated stainers.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work accurately and efficiently in stressful, time-sensitive situations such as frozen section procedures.
  • Effective in working closely with pathologists, surgeons, and laboratory staff to ensure timely and accurate diagnostic support.
  • Excellent manual dexterity and visual acuity for precise specimen handling, slide preparation, and use of laboratory instrumentation.
  • Ability to safely handle potentially infectious specimens, carcinogenic substances, odorous materials, and other hazardous chemicals in compliance with safety protocols.
  • Must strictly adhere to Standard Precautions and consistently use personal protective equipment (PPE).

6. BS in Biotechnology with 5 years of Experience

  • Experience working in a laboratory environment.
  • Certification by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Registry.
  • Experience with laboratory information systems (LIS) and electronic health records (EHRs).
  • Knowledge of clinical processes and medical terminology.
  • Knowledge of applicable federal, state, hospital, and regulatory committee rules and regulations.
  • Knowledge of privacy laws and regulations.
  • Knowledge of customer service concepts and practices.
  • Skill in operating laboratory equipment.
  • Skill in establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with other employees.
  • Skill in operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of software applications.
  • Ability to train, mentor, or supervise laboratory staff and students - leadership and knowledge transfer in a lab setting.
  • Superb attention to detail,  ensuring precision in testing, documentation, and reporting.

7. BS in Biochemistry with 3 years of Experience

  • HT/HTL (ASCP) certification or certification eligibility.
  • Experience working in an IHC/histology laboratory setting.
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures (biohazards, chemicals) and quality control regulations.
  • Completed an NAACLS-accredited Histotechnology or Medical/Clinical Laboratory Science program.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and general internet navigation for business use.
  • Experience with Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) and digital pathology platforms.
  • Familiarity with troubleshooting and maintaining histology/IHC instrumentation, including microtomes, tissue processors, and staining equipment.
  • Knowledge of regulatory standards and accreditation requirements (e.g., CAP, CLIA, JCAHO).
  • Ability to follow established protocols, take direction, and identify appropriate resources for guidance.
  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, including under routine and stressful situations.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

8. BS in Molecular Biology with 2 years of Experience

  • Certified as a Histology Technician, HT (ASCP), Histotechnologist, HTL (ASCP), or obtain certification within 24 months.
  • Experience with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the histology field, including tissue embedding, staining, microtomy, quality control of tissues, and tissue/slide inventory.
  • Must adhere to chemical agent, facility, and bio-facility safety requirements.
  • Demonstrated ability to be organized, multitask, communicate effectively with a team and diverse individuals, and a desire to learn new skills.
  • Sufficiently medically fit to do work in a lab wearing appropriate respiratory equipment and perform assigned duties.
  • Working knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) in support of non-clinical studies.
  • Detail-oriented, strong organizational skills, and must be reliable, punctual, and able to work in a variety of respiratory protection environments.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills and work well with others.
  • Demonstrated knowledge in Excel, Word, Access, and SharePoint.
  • Must be willing to work in a biosafety level 2 (BSL2) and/or 3 (BSL3) environment and able to wear appropriate respiratory protection.
  • Must be willing to be immunized with licensed and FDA-approved vaccines recommended for persons at risk of occupational exposure to biological agents.

9. BS in Clinical Laboratory Science with 1 year of Experience

  • Experience working as a Histology Technician.
  • Must meet certification eligibility upon hire and have one of the following required certifications: HT(ASCP) - Certified as a Histology Technician by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists, or HTL(ASCP) - Certified as a Histology Technologist by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.
  • Ability to perform assigned duties safely and effectively, as validated through skills evaluations, competency assessments, and/or performance reviews.
  • Ability to operate multiple systems, such as Hospital and Laboratory Information Systems.
  • Experience working with standard office software.
  • Strong interpersonal and team player skills with all levels of the healthcare team.
  • Excellent customer service to all patients, visitors, physicians, and co-workers.
  • Can adapt to multiple ongoing priorities with minimal supervision, including organizing workflow and actively participating in problem-solving.
  • Proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language, especially concerning activities impacting patient or employee safety or security.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members, and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles.
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