Advance Your Career as a Histopathology Technician with the VA
Are you a skilled clinical laboratory professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a detail-oriented and dedicated Advanced Histopathology Technician to join the team in Durham, North Carolina. This role is central to the diagnostic success of the Anatomic Pathology section.
Job Responsibilities
As an Advanced Histopathology Technician, you will perform highly specialized tasks to support patient diagnoses. Your core duties include:
- Histological Processing: Handling surgical, bone marrow, and postmortem specimens, including dehydration, embedding, sectioning, and staining.
- Immunohistochemistry: Implementing specialized procedures using enzymatic methodologies to demonstrate antibody-antigen reactions.
- Digital Pathology: Utilizing advanced scanning equipment to create digital slide images and maintaining quality standards for digital workflows.
- Quality Assurance: Establishing and managing quality control protocols to ensure the validity and accuracy of testing results.
- Autopsy Support: Assisting pathologists with postmortem eviscerations and maintaining the autopsy environment.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet specific federal requirements, including:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience/Education | Combination of 1 year of health care experience or relevant degree programs |
| Physical Ability | Must be able to lift 20 lbs and stand for 8-10 hours |
| Background | Successful completion of a security investigation |
| Health Standards | Compliance with the annual influenza vaccination program |
Salary Overview
The salary for this GS-7 position ranges from $52,693 to $68,502 per year. This competitive compensation package reflects the high level of technical skill and responsibility required to perform advanced histopathology duties within the VHA system.
Benefits
The VHA offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the long-term well-being of our employees. Benefits include:
- Federal health insurance programs with multiple plan options.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- Access to career development and federal training programs.
Application Tips
- Be Precise: When writing your resume, provide specific examples of your experience with histology or cytology equipment.
- Upload Everything: Ensure all transcripts and certifications are attached to your profile before hitting submit.
- Check for Deadlines: All application materials must be received by 11:59 PM (ET) on November 3, 2026.
This role is an excellent opportunity for an experienced professional to apply their skills in a clinical environment dedicated to the service of Veterans. If you meet the criteria and are ready to advance, review the full announcement on USAJOBS and submit your application today.
Why This Histopathology Technician (Advanced) Job Matters
Advance your career in clinical diagnostics while supporting the health and wellbeing of our nation's Veterans as an Advanced Histopathology Technician.
Histopathology Technician (Advanced) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a skilled Histopathology Technician (Advanced) for a critical role in Durham, North Carolina. This position is vital to the Anatomic Pathology section, where you will manage complex histological, autopsy, and cytological processes. You will play a key role in advancing digital pathology, including slide scanning and quality assurance, ensuring that our medical team has accurate, timely, and high-quality results to provide the best care for our Veterans.
Requirements for Histopathology Technician (Advanced)
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Completion of a background/security investigation.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to lift up to 20 pounds and maintain a standing posture for 8-10 hours.
- Must be able to manipulate laboratory equipment and transport patients on stretchers or wheelchairs.
- Willingness to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Histopathology Technician (Advanced)
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-6 level in a clinical laboratory setting.
- Demonstrated ability to perform complex immunohistochemical procedures.
- Expertise in digital pathology, slide scanning, and image quality verification.
- Proven track record in laboratory quality control, instrument troubleshooting, and inventory management.
- Strong technical judgment in evaluating lab results and resolving complex procedural issues.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary package
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual
- ✓Paid federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Work-life balance with a structured Monday-Friday schedule
💡 How to Apply Histopathology Technician (Advanced) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Histopathology Technician (Advanced) Job
- Create or log into your account at the official USAJOBS portal.
- Review the full vacancy questionnaire to ensure eligibility.
- Prepare a detailed resume highlighting specific clinical and laboratory experience.
- Gather required documentation, such as transcripts, professional certifications, or DD-214 for veterans.
- Complete the online application and questionnaire before the closing date.
- Submit your application package and retain your confirmation notification.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in your resume; do not assume the recruiter knows your day-to-day duties.
- Ensure your documentation clearly reflects your experience with biological science or chemistry coursework.
- Double-check that all required documents (transcripts, licenses) are uploaded correctly to avoid disqualification.
- Monitor your email for status updates following the close of the announcement.
- Address all 'Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities' (KSAs) mentioned in the job duties within your resume.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this Histopathology Technician role?
The role focuses on clinical disciplines within the Anatomic Pathology section, including histology, cytology, and autopsy support, with a specific emphasis on implementing digital pathology workflows.
Is this a remote or telework-eligible position?
No, this is an onsite, non-telework position requiring physical presence in the Durham laboratory.
What level of education or experience is required?
Applicants can qualify through a combination of education (e.g., degree in biological science/chemistry) and experience, or a specific background in histopathology/cytotechnology as defined in the qualification standards.
Can I apply if I don't have a bachelor's degree?
*A: Yes, you may qualify through a combination of experience and specialized education in chemistry or biological sciences.*
Is there an opportunity for growth?
*A: The VHA offers internal mobility and training that supports professional advancement.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By joining our team in Durham, you become part of a compassionate community committed to whole-health care for America’s Veterans.