Description
Perform anatomic pathology laboratory procedures to support diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. Prepare, process, stain, and manage tissue and cytology specimens; ensure quality, safety, and regulatory compliance; may train or supervise staff.
- • Accession, label, and track surgical, biopsy, cytology, and autopsy specimens in the LIS.
- • Assist with gross examination by preparing cassettes, inking margins, and documenting specimens per protocols.
- • Fix, process, and embed tissue using automated processors and paraffin embedding stations.
- • Perform microtomy to cut and mount paraffin sections at prescribed thickness.
- • Prepare cryostat frozen sections and slides for rapid intraoperative consultation.
- • Stain slides using H&E, special stains, and immunohistochemistry; operate and maintain stainers and IHC platforms.
- • Coverslip, label, and deliver slides; ensure slide quality and integrity.
- • Prepare cytology specimens, including Pap and non-gynecologic fluids, using ThinPrep/SurePath and cell block techniques.
- • Perform reagent preparation, lot acceptance, and daily quality control for stains and antibodies.
- • Calibrate, operate, and maintain histology, cytology, cryostat, microtomy, and digital pathology equipment; document maintenance.
- • Scan slides and manage digital images for telepathology and image analysis as required.
- • Enter test orders and results in the LIS; communicate specimen status and technical findings to pathologists.
- • Follow biosafety and exposure control practices; handle formalin and other hazardous chemicals safely.
- • Participate in method validation, troubleshooting, and procedure revisions to optimize workflow and results.
- • Train, mentor, or oversee laboratory assistants and technicians; support compliance with CAP, CLIA, and HIPAA standards.
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Healthcare & Human Services
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
