Histologic technicians prepare slides of tissue specimens from surgeries, autopsies and/or research procedures for microscopic examination by processing and cutting tissues, mounting them on glass slides, and staining them with dyes to make the details visible under the microscope.  Histotechnologists perform more complex tasks than histologic technicians, including procedures associated with enzyme- and immuno-histochemistry, electron microscopy, and immunofluorescence.  All histotechs share common characteristics such as being accurate, reliable, and a good problem solver; they work well under pressure and complete tasks once started. They are deeply committed to their profession in patient care.

Work Environment
Most histologic technicians and histotechnologists work in hospital or large reference medical laboratories.  Others may work in research institutions, pharmaceutical or industrial laboratories, or government agencies.