Navy
MEDICAL
NEC

NEC

L30A

Histopathology Technician

A Navy Enlisted Classification: a skill designation sailors hold in addition to their rating.

Description

Assists the pathologist in the accessioning, preparation, processing, embedding, straining, and mounting of surgically and necropsy obtained tissue for pathological examination. Maintains histopathology records and instruments. Supervises the work of less skilled technicians.

Core Skills

  • tissue accessioning
  • histologic specimen processing
  • paraffin embedding
  • microtome sectioning
  • histochemical staining
  • slide preparation
  • autopsy specimen handling
  • laboratory instrument maintenance
  • pathology recordkeeping
  • technical staff supervision

Common Certifications

  • ASCP Histotechnician (HT)
  • ASCP Histotechnologist (HTL)
  • American Medical Technologists Histology Technician (HT)
  • Certified Phlebotomy Technician
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
  • CPR/BLS Certification

Civilian Career Paths

  • MEDICAL LABORATORY
  • CLINICAL TECHNICIAN

Training & Development

Getting Started

  • ASCP Histotechnician (HT)
  • Accredited histotechnology program
  • CPR/BLS Certification
  • OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Training

Career Growth

  • ASCP Histotechnologist (HTL)
  • Molecular Biology Certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
  • Certified Laboratory Manager (CLM)

Data sourced from official Navy publications and public military occupational references. Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.