Pursuing a Career as a Histopathology Technologist with the Orlando VA
Are you a dedicated laboratory professional looking to apply your skills in an environment that values patient care and clinical excellence? The Orlando VA Healthcare System is currently seeking a motivated Histopathology Technologist to support its mission of providing comprehensive healthcare to veterans. This role is a unique opportunity to work in a high-tech facility, performing critical diagnostic services that directly influence veteran patient outcomes.
Job Responsibilities
As a Histopathology Technologist, your day-to-day will involve high-level technical work within the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine service. Key responsibilities include:
- Performing routine and specialized testing including IHC, FISH, and CISH.
- Assisting pathologists with gross dissection and specimen processing.
- Maintaining laboratory instrumentation and conducting quality control.
- Troubleshooting and resolving diagnostic issues.
- Providing instruction and training to students and new personnel.
Core Competencies
| Competency Area | Primary Focus |
|---|---|
| Technical Skill | Proficiency in embedding, microtomy, and staining |
| Quality Assurance | Documenting procedures and corrective actions |
| Communication | Effectively working within a healthcare team |
| Lab Systems | Managing laboratory information systems |
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Current Histotechnologist (HTL) certification by the ASCP Board of Certification.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass pre-employment physicals and security clearances.
- Completion of a bachelor's degree in a related health science field.
Salary Overview
The salary for this position ranges from $50,460 to $80,243 per year, depending on your qualifications, experience, and selected grade level (GS-7 to GS-9).
Benefits
The VA offers a robust benefits package, including:
- Competitive health insurance plans.
- Federal retirement savings through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Generous leave policies including paid vacation and sick time.
- Opportunities for continued professional education.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume highlights specific technical skills like immunohistochemistry. Use the provided standard clinical resume template when applying to the Orlando VA portal, and double-check all documents for accuracy before submission.
Serving as a Histopathology Technologist at the Orlando VA is more than just a job; it is a way to honor those who have sacrificed for our nation. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for a challenging, rewarding career in a state-of-the-art lab, we encourage you to apply today.
Why This Histopathology Technologist Job Matters
Join the Orlando VA Healthcare System and make a tangible impact on the lives of those who served. We are seeking a dedicated Histopathology Technologist to join our world-class medical team at our state-of-the-art Lake Nona campus.
Histopathology Technologist Job Overview
The Orlando VA Healthcare System is looking for a skilled Histopathology Technologist to perform complex laboratory diagnostics, including IHC, FISH, CISH, and gross dissection. In this role, you will play a vital part in our diagnostic pathology services, ensuring accurate and timely results for our nation's veterans. This position offers a dynamic environment where professional development and clinical excellence are prioritized.
Requirements for Histopathology Technologist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Successful completion of a bachelor's degree in health/allied sciences OR an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Current certification as a Histotechnologist (HTL) from the ASCP Board of Certification
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening
- Must complete a mandatory background and security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is required
Preferred Qualifications for Histopathology Technologist
- Experience in specialized techniques such as immunohistochemical (IHC) staining
- Proficiency in laboratory information technology systems
- Proven ability to troubleshoot complex laboratory testing issues
- Experience with fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH) and chromogenic in-situ hybridization (CISH)
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Generous paid annual leave and sick leave accrual
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS
- ✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency matching
- ✓Career advancement and training opportunities
- ✓Service credit for annual leave accrual based on prior experience
💡 How to Apply Histopathology Technologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Histopathology Technologist Job
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Review the full job announcement and questionnaire requirements.
- Download and complete the standard clinical resume document provided by the VA.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, and relevant professional certifications.
- Submit your complete application package, including any required veteran preference documents, through the online portal by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific when describing your experience; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your skills.
- Include all volunteer and paid experience that relates to clinical laboratory work.
- Double-check that all required documents, including your ASCP certification, are uploaded before the deadline.
- Follow the specific instructions for the 'Clinical Resume' document provided in the vacancy announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the grade range for this position?
This position is open at the GS-7 to GS-9 grade levels, with a full performance level of GS-9.
Is remote work available?
No, this is an onsite position at the Orlando VA Healthcare System and is not eligible for telework or virtual status.
What if I am not currently board-certified?
Non-board-certified candidates who are 'board eligible' may be considered for temporary appointments under specific conditions while actively pursuing certification.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
How do I verify my education?
You can visit the official U.S. Department of Education database to check your school's accreditation.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Orlando VA Healthcare System is part of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Established in 2006, it has grown into a premiere provider of complex medical, surgical, and mental health care. Spanning multiple campuses, including the state-of-the-art Lake Nona facility, the system serves over 118,000 veterans in Central Florida. Working for the VA means becoming part of a mission-driven team dedicated to the men and women who have served our country.