Become an Advanced Histopathology Technician at the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class care to those who have bravely served our nation. As an Advanced Histopathology Technician within the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, you are not just an employee; you are a vital part of a diagnostic team that ensures Veterans receive precise and timely dermatological and pathology services.
Job Responsibilities
In this specialized role, you will split your expertise between the Dermatology Mohs Micrographic Surgery clinic and the broader Pathology department. Your primary duties include:
- Maintaining the Mohs laboratory according to strict accreditation standards.
- Performing advanced anatomic pathology testing, including gross dissection.
- Preparing interoperative frozen sections.
- Managing quality assurance documentation and supply inventories.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet the federal basic requirements, which include:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Relevant experience in a health care laboratory environment.
- Completion of specific educational milestones in biological science or chemistry.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Salary Overview
| Grade | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-07 | $68,297 - $88,788 |
Benefits
Working for the VA comes with the peace of mind of federal employment, including comprehensive health coverage, robust retirement plans, and work-life balance through generous leave programs.
Application Tips
- Use the official VA clinical resume format.
- Be specific about your experience with CLIA/CAP certifications.
- Submit early to meet the initial referral cut-off dates.
If you are a dedicated professional looking to apply your histopathology skills in an environment that honors service, this role in Nashville is for you. Apply today to help us provide the care our Veterans deserve.
Why This Histopathology Technician (Advanced) Job Matters
Join a dedicated team in Nashville, Tennessee, and make a direct impact on the lives of our nation's heroes by providing specialized diagnostic support as an Advanced Histopathology Technician.
Histopathology Technician (Advanced) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a highly skilled Advanced Histopathology Technician for the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System. This role is primarily focused on supporting the Dermatology Mohs Micrographic Surgery clinic, where you will ensure laboratory excellence and provide essential diagnostic support. You will play a vital role in patient outcomes by performing complex anatomic pathology testing, including gross dissection and frozen section preparation. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a high-impact clinical environment that prioritizes compassionate, quality care for Veterans.
Requirements for Histopathology Technician (Advanced)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Must meet specific education and experience requirements (e.g., bachelor's degree in biological science/chemistry OR specific clinical laboratory training).
- Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds.
- Must be able to stand for 8-10 hours during patient care procedures.
- Must complete a mandatory 1-2 year trial period.
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Histopathology Technician (Advanced)
- Proven experience working as a Mohs histotechnologist.
- Expertise in managing CLIA and CAP laboratory certifications.
- Advanced knowledge of anatomic pathology testing methods and instrumentation.
- Strong ability to perform complex instrument troubleshooting and quality assurance documentation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and advancement opportunities.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS).
- ✓Eligibility for student loan forgiveness or repayment programs under certain conditions.
- ✓Flexible spending accounts and life insurance.
💡 How to Apply Histopathology Technician (Advanced) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Histopathology Technician (Advanced) Job
- Create or update your account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare your resume using the VA clinical template for the primary upload.
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts, professional certifications, and DD-214 (if claiming Veterans' preference).
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your relevant clinical experience to avoid assumptions by the hiring team.
- Use the specified VA clinical resume template to streamline the initial review process.
- Double-check that all required documents, including transcripts and licenses, are attached before submission.
- Apply early; while the vacancy is open until 2026, there are periodic cut-off dates for referral.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this Histopathology Technician role?
The role involves spending 80% of your time in the Dermatology Mohs Micrographic Surgery clinic and 20% in general pathology, ensuring laboratory compliance and diagnostic accuracy.
Is telework available for this position?
No, this is an on-site, clinical position that requires the physical presence of the technician to manage lab equipment and assist with patient procedures.
What happens if I do not have a bachelor's degree?
You may still qualify if you possess a combination of relevant health care experience and specific clinical training (e.g., U.S. Armed Forces training or an associate's degree in a health-related field with appropriate coursework).
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS) is an integrated network serving over 146,000 Veterans. With facilities in Nashville and Murfreesboro, along with numerous outpatient clinics, TVHS leads in health care innovation, research, and specialized clinical services. Working here means joining an organization that values integrity, commitment, advocacy, respect, and excellence.