Histopathology Technician

Virginia Commonwealth University; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health benefits

Paid annual and holiday leave

Tuition benefits

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Virginia Commonwealth University is seeking a highly motivated Laboratory/Research Technician to support core operations in histology and pathology. This position involves preparation of samples, engagement with users, and detailed recordkeeping.

The ideal candidate will have a BS in biology or medical science and relevant laboratory experience. The role offers a salary range of $48,000 to $50,000 along with VCU's robust benefits, including health benefits and tuition support.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to foster an environment of respect and professionalism.
• Relevant coursework and laboratory experience in the basic sciences.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and establish priorities.

Responsibilities

• Support core operations by performing histology and pathology services.
• Engage with users to facilitate their experimental needs.
• Track service progress using lab's standard platforms.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Time-management

Attention to detail

Education

BS in biology or medical science or histotechnology certificate

Tools

Smartsheet

Microsoft Suite

Job description

Job Duties

We are seeking a highly motivated Laboratory/Research Technician to support core operations by performing a range of histology and pathology services.

Histopathology Services

• Preparation of labels for sample identification.
• Label cassettes and slides.
• Organize, gross, and load tissue into cassettes for processing and paraffin infiltration.
• Embed and section tissue samples.
• Run automated H&E stainer.
• Maintain standard operating procedures and safety protocols.

Customer Service

• Engage with core users to support and facilitate their experimental needs, including scheduling and conducting intake and sample pick‑up consultations.
• Maintain clear and timely communication with users regarding project status, technical issues, delays, or unforeseen challenges.

Recordkeeping

• Track service progress using our lab’s standard platforms (Smartsheet, Microsoft Suite, etc.).
• Properly label user samples to keep orders organized.
• Document project‑specific techniques and any changes in SOPs.

General Laboratory and Administrative Duties

• Connect with vendors and service engineers to ensure lab equipment remains operational.
• Report to operations director and lab manager.
• Monitor and maintain laboratory equipment and supplies necessary for operations.
• Assist with the development and documentation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and adhere to them.
• Assist in organizing the lab space.
• Assist in ordering and billing.
• Adhere to all lab safety policies and expectations.

Other Duties As Assigned

• Other duties as assigned.
• Be flexible, team‑oriented, and eager to learn new tasks and responsibilities, while also supporting and collaborating effectively with other team members.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.
• Only applicants who do not require current or future sponsorship for employment will be considered.
• Coursework and laboratory experience in the basic sciences.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, time‑management and communication skills.
• Ability to establish priorities and to handle multiple tasks.
• Detail‑oriented with good observation skills; willing to learn and use specialized techniques.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working in a laboratory is required.
• BS in biology or medical science or histotechnology certificate.
• Over 3 years of experience with histology/pathology techniques.
• Strong knowledge of histopathology processing protocols and laboratory best practices.
• Independently manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary Range: 48,000 - 50,000
• Benefits: All full‑time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax‑deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well‑being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more.

Position Details

• Unit: Office of the Vice President for Research & Innovation MBU
• Department: VPRI Core Facilities
• FLSA Exemption Status: Non‑Exempt
• Hours per Week: 40
• Restricted Position: Yes
• ORP Eligible: No
• Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite
• University Job Title: 34051N - Lab/Research Technician 1