Launch Your Career as a Histopathology Technician at the VA
Are you a skilled laboratory professional looking to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who served our country? The VA North Texas Health Care System (VANTHCS) is currently seeking dedicated Histopathology Technicians to join their Anatomic Pathology team in Dallas. This role offers not just a job, but a mission-driven career where your technical expertise supports accurate, life-saving diagnostics for thousands of Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Histopathology Technician, you will be the backbone of the pathology laboratory. Your daily duties will include:
- Specimen Handling: Accessioning surgical, autopsy, and cytology specimens with precision.
- Technical Processing: Embedding tissues, sectioning blocks, and preparing high-quality slides for examination.
- Quality Control: Performing routine maintenance on laboratory instrumentation and ensuring all protocols meet stringent safety standards.
- Data Integrity: Managing electronic records and tracking workload to ensure clinical efficiency.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education/Experience: A minimum of one year of relevant experience or a combination of education (including chemistry/biology credits) and clinical training.
- Language: Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory.
- Screening: Willingness to undergo drug testing and background investigations.
Grade Level Comparison
| Feature | GS-05 (Entry Level) | GS-06 (Full Performance) |
|---|---|---|
| Supervision | Direct, frequent guidance | Minimal supervision |
| Complexity | Routine procedures | Complex/Specialized techniques |
| Autonomy | Follows established protocols | Uses independent technical judgment |
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a package designed for longevity. Employees enjoy comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement planning, paid time off, and the opportunity to serve a patient population that truly values your commitment.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: The VA provides a specific Clinical Resume document. Using this will ensure your application is processed correctly.
- Highlight Your Skills: Clearly state your experience with specific equipment, such as tissue processors or staining protocols.
- Meet the Cut-off: This is a continuous opening, meaning applications are reviewed monthly. Submit early to be considered for the first available referral cycle.
Joining the VA North Texas Health Care System is an opportunity to combine technical proficiency with a meaningful mission. If you are ready to advance your laboratory career while honoring our nation's heroes, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Histopathology Technician - Recruitment Incentive Job Matters
Join the VA North Texas Health Care System and play a vital role in patient care as a Histopathology Technician—where your expertise directly impacts the diagnostic excellence provided to our nation's Veterans.
Histopathology Technician - Recruitment Incentive Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a detail-oriented Histopathology Technician to join the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service at the Dallas VA Medical Center. This position involves performing critical anatomic pathology procedures, including specimen processing, tissue embedding, cutting, and specialized staining. As a key member of the healthcare team, you will ensure the integrity of patient diagnostic materials and maintain the high standards of laboratory quality assurance. This is an open continuous announcement, allowing for ongoing consideration of qualified candidates to join one of the busiest and most innovative VA systems in the nation.
Requirements for Histopathology Technician - Recruitment Incentive
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific exceptions apply).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience in a healthcare, clinical, or laboratory setting.
- Alternatively, completion of relevant education (Associate's or Bachelor's degree with specific coursework in Chemistry/Biological Sciences).
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable background/suitability investigation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment.
Preferred Qualifications for Histopathology Technician - Recruitment Incentive
- Current certification as a Histopathology Technician.
- Hands-on experience with tissue embedding and microtomy (cutting).
- Proficiency in staining techniques and operating automated tissue processors.
- Experience in complex laboratory troubleshooting and quality control procedures.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance plans
- ✓Comprehensive retirement programs (FERS)
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Eligibility for federal service recruitment incentives
- ✓Access to a vast professional network within the VA health system
💡 How to Apply Histopathology Technician - Recruitment Incentive Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Histopathology Technician - Recruitment Incentive Job
- Create or log in to your account on the USAJobs portal.
- Review the full job announcement and required documents section carefully.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA link.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, and any applicable supporting documents (e.g., DD-214, Certifications).
- Submit your application package before the cut-off date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in your resume to avoid assumptions during the evaluation process.
- Ensure your resume reflects both paid and volunteer experience.
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided in the announcement for your primary resume upload.
- Monitor your email for status updates after the monthly referral cut-off dates.
- Verify that all credentials and transcripts are legible and from accredited institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay range for this position?
The salary range for this position is $44,285 to $64,175 per year, depending on the grade level and qualifications.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position located at the Dallas VA Medical Center in Texas.
How long will this job announcement remain open?
This is an open continuous announcement, which remains open until August 3, 2027, with monthly referral cut-off dates.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare. As the second-largest VA system in the country, VANTHCS provides a robust and collaborative environment. With headquarters at the Dallas VA Medical Center, the organization works in tandem with the UT Southwestern Medical Center, positioning itself at the forefront of medical research, clinical education, and veteran-centered care.