Launch Your Career as a Histopathology Technologist with the VA
Are you a dedicated laboratory professional looking to apply your skills in a setting that truly matters? The Northport VA Medical Center is currently seeking a highly skilled Histopathology Technologist to join our diagnostic team. This position offers not just a competitive salary and robust federal benefits, but the opportunity to contribute to the high-quality care of our nation’s Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Histopathology Technologist, you will perform a wide range of duties essential to the pathology department's daily operations. Your work directly impacts how pathologists interpret lab results, which subsequently drives life-saving medical decisions. Key duties include:
- Specimen Processing: Handling human tissue specimens, including receiving, logging, storing, and shipping.
- Grossing and Embedding: Performing gross examination, sectioning, and precise tissue orientation for embedding.
- Microtomy and Staining: Operating microtomes and cryostats to prepare slides, and executing both routine and special stains.
- Quality Control: Maintaining rigorous QA files, evaluating instrument performance, and taking corrective action when discrepancies are identified.
- Technical Guidance: Training junior personnel and ensuring laboratory equipment is functioning optimally.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, applicants must meet the following baseline federal requirements:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education: A bachelor’s degree in a relevant health science field, or a qualifying combination of education and experience.
- Certification: You must hold a current ASCP Histotechnologist (HTL) certification. Entry-level "board eligible" candidates may be considered for temporary roles under specific conditions.
- English Proficiency: Candidates must demonstrate excellent verbal and written command of the English language.
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position is commensurate with experience and education, falling within the GS-7 to GS-9 pay range.
| Grade Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-7 | $72,849 - $94,705 (Approx) |
| GS-9 | $89,103 - $115,848 (Approx) |
Benefits
Federal employment is renowned for its generous benefit structure. Employees at the Northport VA enjoy:
- Comprehensive Health Benefits: Multiple plan options for medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Paid Time Off: Competitive annual and sick leave accrual, plus 11 paid federal holidays.
- Work-Life Balance: A structured work schedule that promotes stability.
Application Tips
Applying for federal positions requires a different approach than the private sector. To maximize your chances:
- Be Explicit: Do not assume the recruiter knows your daily tasks. Use your resume to describe your experience with microtomy, specific staining techniques, and your knowledge of laboratory safety protocols.
- Verify Education: Ensure your transcripts are included if you are using education to qualify, and provide foreign credential evaluation if your degree was obtained outside the U.S.
- Check Your Status: Keep a close eye on your USAJOBS account to track your application progress through each stage of the review.
If you are a detail-oriented professional with a passion for laboratory science, this Histopathology Technologist position at the Northport VA is the perfect next step. You will be part of a team where your technical precision translates directly into better health outcomes for our Veterans. Start your application today to join a community dedicated to excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the primary work schedule? A: The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Q: Is there relocation assistance? A: No, this position does not offer relocation or recruitment incentives.
Q: How often are applications reviewed? A: This is an open and continuous announcement. Reviews occur every two weeks until the vacancy is filled.
Why This Histopathology Technologist Job Matters
Advance your career in medical diagnostics at the Northport VA Medical Center and play a critical role in providing life-saving care to our nation's heroes.
Histopathology Technologist Job Overview
As a Histopathology Technologist with the Department of Veterans Affairs, you will serve as a vital link in the diagnostic process. You will process anatomic pathology specimens, prepare tissue for microscopic analysis, and collaborate with pathologists to ensure the highest standards of accuracy. This position is essential to patient care, directly influencing the diagnoses and treatment plans for Veterans at our Northport, New York facility.
Requirements for Histopathology Technologist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree in health or allied sciences OR completion of a specific histotechnology program
- ASCP Histotechnologist (HTL) certification (or board-eligible status for entry-level)
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination requirements
- Background investigation and security screening
Preferred Qualifications for Histopathology Technologist
- Experience with microtomy, embedding, and specialized staining techniques
- Strong knowledge of laboratory information systems
- Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex instrumentation
- Proven experience in high-volume pathology environments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal career retirement plan
- ✓Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Career advancement and training opportunities
- ✓Supportive work-life balance environment
💡 How to Apply Histopathology Technologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Histopathology Technologist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a comprehensive, long-form resume documenting your technical experience.
- Gather supporting documents: transcripts, professional certifications, and DD-214 (if applicable).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience with specific tasks like microtomy, staining, and embedding.
- Do not assume the hiring panel knows your technical background; be descriptive with your laboratory responsibilities.
- Double-check that your ASCP certification status is clearly stated.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position located at the Northport VA Medical Center in New York.
Can non-certified technologists apply?
Yes, candidates who are 'board eligible' per ASCP standards may be considered for temporary appointments at the entry level.
Is a background check required?
Yes, all selected applicants are subject to a background and security investigation as part of the federal hiring process.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working at a VA Medical Center means joining a mission-driven organization that values compassion, excellence, and integrity above all else. At Northport, we pride ourselves on delivering comprehensive whole-health care to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.