Finding a Travel Histo Tech Job

Working alongside laboratory technologists and physicians, histology technicians are responsible for freezing thin tissue samples in order for them to be analyzed under a microscope. The samples are sliced extremely thin, placed on a slide, and stained with specialized dyes to reveal cellular structures. This process increases the detail of the specimens to allow pathologists, physicians, or research scientists to monitor cell function and identify any abnormalities. As a histo tech, you’ll need to be familiar with the many types of lab equipment required for the job, as well as knowing when any devices are in need of repair or replacement. According to the Bureau Labor Statistics, histological technicians earned a median annual salary of $50,550 with a projected job growth of 16% between 2014 and 2024 — much faster than average!

Most of the work that histo techs complete is lab-based, so their training is heavily centered upon becoming familiar with the terminology and equipment of the laboratory setting, including safety procedures and etiquette. Since the samples that histo techs deal with are often very small and delicate, accuracy is important and professionals are required to have an extreme attention to detail. histo techs also share a strong interest in science and need to be able to work as part of a lab team.

Most employers and agencies will require histo techs to have an associate’s degree from a technical or community college for entry-level positions, although many will prefer a bachelor’s degree in medical technology. Becoming qualified for a job in histology often means taking courses in pathology, biology, medical terminology, and histotechnology. Although histo techs aren’t nationally mandated to be certified, you’re better off in your job hunt if you have taken the extra step. Once someone has earned their associate’s degree through a histotechnician program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) they qualify to become certified through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).