Histopathology Technician (Advanced)

Summary

A Histopathology technician is responsible for all clinical disciplines of the Anatomic Pathology section to include Histology, Autopsy and Cytology. This Advanced Histopathology Technician will be performing digital pathology tasks including scanning slides and reviewing the quality of digital images.

Duties

Duties include but are not limited to: The incumbent is involved in the implementation of special immunohistochemical procedures using enzymatic methodologies with various tumor markers to demonstrate antibody-antigen reactions that have specific value to the patient's disease state. The incumbent is accountable for Antibody Validation and Reagent Lot Verification for lmmunohistochemistry (IHC) procedures along with the Pathologist; develops parameters for each specialized procedure being done based on knowledge and skill specific to immunohistochemical work. The incumbent is responsible for fixation and processing of surgical, bone marrow, postmortem and cytologic specimens, including but not limited to dehydration, clearing, infiltration, sectioning and staining of histological materials and the preparation and staining of cytological specimens. The incumbent is responsible for decalcification to remove calcium deposits from tissues to provide optimal quality sections; embedding tissue to give proper orientation for diagnostic interpretation; preparing smears, cell blocks and monolayers by ThinPrep according to standard techniques and applying appropriate stains. The incumbent is responsible for preparing tissue with appropriate preservative for transport; routinely evaluating the appropriateness of specimen type, method of testing and any changes to procedure or alternative methods based on the information; and determining the correct handling procedures of each specimen for optimum results. This may necessitate adjustments or modifications of procedures to appropriately process such samples. The incumbent investigates, evaluates, and establishes quality control materials for measuring the validity and accuracy of testing results in the Histology section. Identifies and resolves problems by examining all aspects of testing including instrument function, conditions of test performance and evaluation of reaction systems for type and match purposes and quality control. The incumbent manages the operation and maintenance of equipment in the section and adapts equipment for specialized procedures. Prepares reagents following complex formula and specifications, taking into consideration patient sample specifications, and adjusting preparation accordingly using expertise and experience. Troubleshoots equipment, verifies correct instrument operation; standardizes, performs, and calculates information for a variety of complex tests. This incumbent also researches, adapts procedures used in the department in accordance with the various accreditation standards and policies/procedures. Remains abreast of current & developing methodologies to ensure the department meets with all accreditation agencies standards, (i.e.CAP, JCAHO, and OSHA, etc.). The incumbent ensures specimens are correctly labeled with appropriate request information and resolves issues, (such as inadequate labeling, wrong preservative used, inadequate specimens, etc.). The Incumbent is responsible for maintaining supply inventory on items used in the Histopathology Section and, as necessary, initiates orders for additional supplies, and distributes upon delivery. The incumbent utilizes recording systems to document the work process. Maintains an accurate filing system or organization of histological materials so the blocks, slides, and tissues are retrievable with minimum effort. The incumbent assists the Pathologist or Pathology Resident with autopsy, as needed. The duties include accounting for all required documentation, such as patient information, identity of the body, and scheduling the autopsy. Under the direction of the Pathologist or Pathology Resident, performs postmortem eviscerations, places removed specimens in proper preserving solutions or containers and properly labels the specimens. The incumbent performs restoration procedure of the body and maintains the autopsy area including instruments, equipment, and clothing. The incumbent will also appropriately discard residual autopsy tissues in accordance with retention guidelines. The incumbent is under the supervision of a Pathologist and Anatomical Pathology Supervisor and participates in the development of histological protocols as it relates to local antibodies and instrument correlations and methods. The Incumbent evaluates new procedures for incorporation into the lab and assesses the effectiveness of the procedures and quality control in accordance with the requirements of accreditation agencies and works to ensure the section is compliant. The incumbent will scan slides to produce digital images, review image quality, manage digital workflows, perform equipment maintenance, and system troubleshooting as needed. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 4:30 AM - 12:30 PM Compressed/Flexible: Not Authorized. Telework: Not Authorized. Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized.

Requirements

You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Qualifications and evaluation

IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position. It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment. Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.

Education

Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.

How to apply

All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 09/01/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13044952. To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire. Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package. NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.

Required documents

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes: Resume Special Note for Applications: To complete your application, please use the following link https://vacareers.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/Resume.docx to download the standard Clinical Resume Document. This one-page document does not need to be modified and must be uploaded into the two-page restricted 'Resume' document upload field. Your full resume/CV may be uploaded without page limitation into the 'Other' document upload field. The following documents are accepted and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc. Cover Letter DD-214/ Statement of Service Disability Letter (Schedule A) Disability Letter (VA) License Other (1) PCS Orders Performance Appraisal Professional Certification Resume Separation Notice (RIF) SF-15 SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action Transcript Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.

Additional information

Receiving Service Credit for Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed. During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions. This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies. This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status. VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority. If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement. Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.