Advanced Histopathology Technician Career at Robley Rex VA Medical Center
Are you a dedicated laboratory professional looking to apply your skills in an environment that truly makes a difference? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring for an Advanced Histopathology Technician at the Robley Rex VA Medical Center in Louisville, Kentucky. This role is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about precision, patient outcomes, and serving the military community.
Job Responsibilities
As an Advanced Histopathology Technician, you are the backbone of the anatomical pathology team. Your responsibilities are wide-ranging and critical to medical diagnosis:
- Specimen Management: Maintaining absolute specimen integrity from accessioning through final reporting.
- Technical Expertise: Performing delicate procedures, including frozen sections during active surgeries.
- Special Stains: Applying complex methodologies such as PAS, AFB, Giemsa, and immunohistochemistry.
- Troubleshooting: Managing laboratory equipment and ensuring all instrumentation functions at peak performance.
- Quality Control: Leading assurance activities to ensure error-free test results.
Comparison of Requirements
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Mandatory U.S. Citizenship |
| Certification | HT or HTL preferred |
| Background Check | Mandatory Security Investigation |
| Drug Test | Required for testing-designated positions |
Requirements and Qualifications
To qualify for this GS-07 position, you must demonstrate a mix of experience and specialized knowledge. The VA values both traditional education and practical clinical experience. You must be comfortable with complex staining, microtomy, and operating sophisticated laboratory hardware. Candidates who possess HT or HTL certifications will be at a distinct advantage during the selection process.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $61,254 to $79,631 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance options.
- Strong retirement plans through FERS.
- Generous leave accrual, including annual and sick leave.
- A stable, mission-driven work culture.
Application Tips
Submitting a federal application is a precise process. First, ensure your resume is detailed—"long-form" is the standard. Every entry should include the employer's name, your job title, exact start/end dates (month/year), and average hours worked per week. Most importantly, bridge the gap between your past work and the requirements listed in the job description to ensure your expertise is clear to the hiring board.
Serving as a Histopathology Technician at the Robley Rex VA Medical Center offers both professional growth and the honor of serving Veterans. With a focus on high-complexity laboratory work, this position is ideal for technicians who want to master their craft in a top-tier academic environment. Apply today and take the next step in your medical laboratory career.
Why This Histopathology Technician (Advanced) Job Matters
Advance your career in clinical laboratory science and play a vital role in the diagnosis and treatment of our nation's heroes at the Robley Rex VA Medical Center.
Histopathology Technician (Advanced) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly skilled Histopathology Technician (Advanced) to join the Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service in Louisville, Kentucky. This non-supervisory role focuses on performing complex histological, histochemical, and immunohistochemical procedures. You will work independently to troubleshoot instrumentation, ensure high-quality specimen processing, and support our Pathologists in providing top-tier patient care for Veterans.
Requirements for Histopathology Technician (Advanced)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Completion of a background and security investigation.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Successful completion of a trial period.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Compliance with annual influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Histopathology Technician (Advanced)
- Active certification as a Histopathology Technician (HT) or Histopathology Technologist (HTL).
- Expertise in embedding, microtoming, and grossing biopsy specimens.
- Advanced knowledge of immunohistochemistry and special staining techniques.
- Demonstrated experience in instrument troubleshooting and quality assurance management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Generous paid time off and federal holidays
- ✓Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Supportive and collaborative clinical environment
💡 How to Apply Histopathology Technician (Advanced) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Histopathology Technician (Advanced) Job
- Create or update your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a comprehensive, long-form resume documenting specific work experience, hours worked per week, and job titles.
- Gather necessary documentation, including SF-50 forms for current/former federal employees and educational transcripts.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package prior to the November 9, 2026, deadline.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your technical skills.
- Ensure your resume reflects the exact months and years of employment for every position listed.
- If claiming time-in-grade eligibility, provide all relevant SF-50 forms, as recent ones may not fully demonstrate a full year of experience.
- Double-check that your transcripts are attached if you are qualifying based on education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I qualify with a combination of education and experience?
Yes. The VA accepts various combinations of health care experience and academic coursework in biological science or chemistry to meet entry-level requirements.
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
No, recruitment or relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
What is the work schedule?
This position operates on a standard Monday through Friday schedule, from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.
Is there remote work available for this position?
*A: No, this is an onsite position at the Robley Rex facility.*
What happens if I am selected but haven't finished my certification?
*A: Applicants pending certification may be referred, but you must meet all requirements before an official hire can be made.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center is more than a hospital; it is a pillar of health for Veterans in central and western Kentucky and southern Indiana. As a level 1b facility, it is deeply integrated with the University of Louisville, emphasizing a commitment to teaching, research, and advanced clinical practices. Employees here work with state-of-the-art technology to provide the best possible care to those who have served our nation.