As a member of the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service, the Histopathology Technologist performs a full range of routine and specialized tests. The Histopathology Technologist will utilize information technology systems to apply histopathology techniques and broad scientific principles from the fields of biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology. Histopathology technologist work is vital to provide diagnoses and prognoses that allow for planning appropriate and life-saving treatments.
Summary
As a member of the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service, the Histopathology Technologist performs a full range of routine and specialized tests. The Histopathology Technologist will utilize information technology systems to apply histopathology techniques and broad scientific principles from the fields of biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology. Histopathology technologist work is vital to provide diagnoses and prognoses that allow for planning appropriate and life-saving treatments.
This is an external announcement open to all US citizens. Veterans Preference applies to all applicants. Current permanent VA/Federal employees may apply under announcement CBTC-11144491-21-ELM, to receive internal consideration.
The Histopathology Technologist serves under the clinical direction of the Supervisory Health Science Specialist & have duties encompassing a wide range of clinical and technical responsibilities.
The Histopathology Technologist duties consist of but are not limited to the follow:
Responsible for independently performs a full range of routine and specialized tests.
Performs all routine histology procedures including accessioning, grossing, embedding, frozen section microtomy, paraffin microtomy, H&E staining, and histochemical staining.
Performs all immunohistochemical (IHC), direct immunofluorescence (DIF), and in situ hybridization (ISH) staining using appropriate controls, multiple detection techniques, and multiple instruments
Performs quality control in complex IHC techniques, including but not limited to new detection kits, lot number titrations, and testing of concentrated antibodies
Evaluates the validity of results obtained in relation to the test system and collection procedures. Microscopically interprets and correlates staining results with established staining criteria
Collects, harvests and processes control material used in histochemistry and IHC
Prepares STAT kidney biopsies, microscopically evaluating the quality and quantity of cortical tissue. Accurately separates fresh kidney core biopsy samples into differing fixatives required for routine paraffin, immunofluorescence and electron microscopy examination
Accurately prepares samples for transport to reference laboratories. Maintains integrity of patient samples throughout. Monitors return of results and investigates/troubleshoots unexpected delays in turnaround time. Researches newly ordered tests
Organizes, coordinates, and prioritizes simultaneous work assignments, completing all work within designated timeframes
Ensures laboratory security by following all established VA hospital policies and procedures
Other related duties as assigned.
Work Schedule: Monday to Friday from 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Afternoon tour hours maybe flexible (Note: Work schedules are determined and approved by the supervisor. May be required to work various shifts on a permanent or temporary basis based on patient care needs). Functional Statement Title: Histopathology Technologist, GS-601-09 Relocation/Moving Expenses: Will not be reimbursed. Recruitment/Relocation Incentives: Recruitment/Relocation Incentives are not authorized for this position. Financial Disclosure Report: Not required.
Designated and/or random drug testing may be required
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
You may be required to serve a probationary period
Subject to a background/security investigation
Must be proficient in written and spoken English
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process
Qualifications
BASIC REQUIREMENTS: All applicants must meet the following basic qualifications.
Citizenship. Must be a citizen of the United States.
Certification. Has a hystotechnologist (HTL) certification given by the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science ( ASCP) Board of Certification. A copy of this board certification must be submitted with your application packet.
English Language Proficiency. Histopathology technologists must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7403(f).
Physical Standards. Must pass a pre-employment examination. See below for additional information.
-AND- GRADE REQUIREMENTS: In addition to the basic requirements above, all applicants must also meet one of the following grade requirements for a specific grade level.
GS-9 (Full Performance Level). One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 grade level. Specialized Experience includes, but is not limited to: Work performed as a histopathology technologist in which you utilize information technology systems to apply histopathology techniques and broad scientific principles from the fields of biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology; act as a technical resource, troubleshooting a variety of specialized lab tests, identifying suboptimal issues, and uses independent judgment and resources to resolve concerns; utilize broad knowledge of biological sciences and the skills necessary to process anatomic pathology specimens; provide diagnoses and prognoses that allow for planning appropriate and life-saving treatments; apply histopathology technologist practices, concepts, and theories to perform new or difficult specialized testing methods, such as immunohistochemical, histochemical, and frozen section techniques.
In addition, applicants must demonstrate the following Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):
Demonstrate knowledge of laboratory information technology systems and inter-connectivity
Demonstrate knowledge. of histopathology techniques, chemistry, anatomy and physiology principles, theories, concepts, and methodologies sufficient to process specimens, and the ability to perform a full range of routine specialized tests.
Ability to identify and test suboptimal specimens and take corrective action to minimize or eliminate impact on a patient's sample.
Ability to organize, coordinate, and prioritize simultaneous work assignments; both individual and team related
Demonstrate skills in applying professional, anatomic pathology principles, practices, concepts, and theories in performing new or difficult specialized testing methods or techniques
APPLICANTS NOTE: Your resume must show that you possess the required specific/specialized experience, or you will be made ineligible from further consideration (due to not being qualified). We will not re-rate your application due to errors on your part. You must meet the qualifications & submit all documentation by the closing date of this announcement.
Reference: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G-65
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-09. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is the GS-09.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training, and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Physical Requirements:Must pass a pre-employment physical examination as required by VA Handbook 5019. This examination is administered by VA Occupational Health. The work requires manual dexterity, visual acuity, color vision, regular and recurring physical exertion, repetitive motions, climbing stairs, standing for long periods of time, and lifting of moderately heavy (10 to 40 pounds) reagent containers and supplies. The laboratory work environment is one in which the histopathology technologist works with potentially infectious materials, hazardous/irritant chemicals, hazardous biologic materials, and use of sharp microtome and scalpel blades. Strict adherence to general safety and infection control guidelines is mandatory.
Education
IMPORTANT: If you are using education to qualify for this position a transcript must be submitted with your application.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.
Additional information
Bargaining Unit Status: American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE)
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
If you are unable to apply online view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, résumé, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
NOTE: Incomplete packets will not be considered. Failure to submit the required documentation will make you ineligible for this position.
The following documents are required from all applicants:
Résumé / CV: For each job/position listed, you must include a job title, detailed duties, month and year for each start/end date and if full-time or part-time status with the number of hours worked each week.
Responses to the questionnaire
VA Form 10-2850c - Application for Associated Health Occupations (Available at: http://vaww4.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-2850c-fill.pdf). Must be current, complete and signed. (This is not needed if you are not already appointed in this same occupation within the Department of Veterans Affairs).
SF-50: All VA/Federal employees must submit a copy of your most recent SF-50 (that is not an award SF-50) that shows you're a current, permanent VA employee to be considered for this position. You will be made ineligible if you fail to submit your latest SF-50 (even facility employees). You may get your SF-50 directly from your eOPF. VA employees may go to:https://eopf.opm.gov/va/. Other Federal employees must contact your current HR Office for assistance assessing your eOPF/personnel folder.
Certification: Must provide a copy of your certification as histotechnologist (HTL) from the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCP) Board of Certification.
Transcript(s): Must provide a copy of your transcript(s) to qualify
NOTE: The information provided on these documents will be the main source for determining your qualifications and eligibility for this position. Be sure to give complete and accurate information. If you do not furnish documents or your information is incomplete, inaccurate or illegible, it may not be possible to determine your eligibility and you will not receive further consideration for this position. It is the responsibility of the applicant to submit the correct forms and documentation. Additional guidance on completing these forms is available from HRMS.
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), etc.
Cover Letter
DD-214/ Statement of Service
Disability Letter (VA)
VA form 10-2850c
Professional Certification
Resume
SF-15
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
The following additional supporting documents are required in order to receive Veterans Preference:
To receive Veterans Preference, you must submit: Copy of your DD-214 that shows your type of discharge (Member 4 copy).
Disabled Veterans & those claiming 10-Point Preference must submit: SF-15 (Application for 10-Point Veterans Preference) along with the supporting documents required by that form. Please read page 2 of the form for acceptable supporting documents. (Available at: http://www.opm.gov/Forms/pdf_fill/SF15.pdf)
Those claiming 0-Point (Sole Survivorship) Preference must also submit: Proof of your eligibility.
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit http://www.fedshirevets.gov/job/vetpref/index.aspx.
NOTE: The information provided on these documents will be the main source for determining your qualifications and eligibility for this position. Be sure to give complete and accurate information. If you do not furnish documents or your information is incomplete, inaccurate or illegible, it may not be possible to determine your eligibility and you will not receive further consideration for this position. It is the responsibility of the applicant to submit the correct forms and documentation. Additional guidance on completing these forms is available from HRMS.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 07/29/2021 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/11152971.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service.
HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
James A Haley Veterans Hospital
13000 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard
Tampa, FL 33612
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
NOTE: Incomplete packets will not be considered. Failure to submit the required documentation will make you ineligible for this position.
The following documents are required from all applicants:
Résumé / CV: For each job/position listed, you must include a job title, detailed duties, month and year for each start/end date and if full-time or part-time status with the number of hours worked each week.
Responses to the questionnaire
VA Form 10-2850c - Application for Associated Health Occupations (Available at: http://vaww4.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-2850c-fill.pdf). Must be current, complete and signed. (This is not needed if you are not already appointed in this same occupation within the Department of Veterans Affairs).
SF-50: All VA/Federal employees must submit a copy of your most recent SF-50 (that is not an award SF-50) that shows you're a current, permanent VA employee to be considered for this position. You will be made ineligible if you fail to submit your latest SF-50 (even facility employees). You may get your SF-50 directly from your eOPF. VA employees may go to:https://eopf.opm.gov/va/. Other Federal employees must contact your current HR Office for assistance assessing your eOPF/personnel folder.
Certification: Must provide a copy of your certification as histotechnologist (HTL) from the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCP) Board of Certification.
Transcript(s): Must provide a copy of your transcript(s) to qualify
NOTE: The information provided on these documents will be the main source for determining your qualifications and eligibility for this position. Be sure to give complete and accurate information. If you do not furnish documents or your information is incomplete, inaccurate or illegible, it may not be possible to determine your eligibility and you will not receive further consideration for this position. It is the responsibility of the applicant to submit the correct forms and documentation. Additional guidance on completing these forms is available from HRMS.
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), etc.
Cover Letter
DD-214/ Statement of Service
Disability Letter (VA)
VA form 10-2850c
Professional Certification
Resume
SF-15
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
The following additional supporting documents are required in order to receive Veterans Preference:
To receive Veterans Preference, you must submit: Copy of your DD-214 that shows your type of discharge (Member 4 copy).
Disabled Veterans & those claiming 10-Point Preference must submit: SF-15 (Application for 10-Point Veterans Preference) along with the supporting documents required by that form. Please read page 2 of the form for acceptable supporting documents. (Available at: http://www.opm.gov/Forms/pdf_fill/SF15.pdf)
Those claiming 0-Point (Sole Survivorship) Preference must also submit: Proof of your eligibility.
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit http://www.fedshirevets.gov/job/vetpref/index.aspx.
NOTE: The information provided on these documents will be the main source for determining your qualifications and eligibility for this position. Be sure to give complete and accurate information. If you do not furnish documents or your information is incomplete, inaccurate or illegible, it may not be possible to determine your eligibility and you will not receive further consideration for this position. It is the responsibility of the applicant to submit the correct forms and documentation. Additional guidance on completing these forms is available from HRMS.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 07/29/2021 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/11152971.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service.
HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
James A Haley Veterans Hospital
13000 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard
Tampa, FL 33612
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
