Necropsy / Histology Technician
Location: Newark, Delaware
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM (40 hours/week). Occasional 6:30 AM starts to support studies. Weekend on-call rotation approximately once every eight weeks, after training.
Pay Rate: $24-28/hr
Assignment: 1 year contract, ability to extend or convert
We are seeking a Necropsy / Histology Technician to join a laboratory team supporting scientific research. This is a great opportunity for a recent Biology, Animal Science, or related science graduate to gain hands-on experience in animal research, necropsy, and histology. No previous necropsy or histology experience is required, as training will be provided. You’ll work alongside experienced laboratory professionals, learn specialized techniques, and develop valuable skills in a research environment.
Responsibilities
- Assist with routine and specialized necropsies on laboratory rodents, including rats and mice.
- Prepare the lab, organize supplies, and clean equipment before and after procedures.
- Handle, weigh, label, and prepare tissue samples for laboratory analysis.
- Assist with histology procedures, including tissue processing, slide preparation, and staining as training and experience allow.
- Learn to operate and maintain laboratory equipment, including automated slide staining machines.
- Observe and record animal weights and physical characteristics.
- Assist with the humane euthanasia of laboratory animals.
- Prepare laboratory solutions and reagents and maintain an organized workspace.
- Manage assigned necropsies within established study timelines while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
- Collaborate with team members and provide support with additional laboratory tasks as workload allows.
- Follow laboratory safety procedures, SOPs, and established quality standards.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Animal Science, or a related scientific discipline preferred. Candidates with relevant hands-on experience may also be considered.
- Basic anatomy coursework or familiarity with animal anatomy preferred.
- Interest in animal research, laboratory science, necropsy, or histology.
- Comfortable working in a vivarium/animal research environment and handling laboratory animals.
- Comfortable with animal euthanasia as part of laboratory responsibilities.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to stay focused while working within established timelines.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and accept constructive feedback.
- Organized, dependable, and able to prioritize tasks in a time-sensitive environment.
- Comfortable working independently while also collaborating with team members.
- Willingness to learn new laboratory techniques and equipment.
- Must be available for occasional early starts and weekend on-call rotation approximately once every eight weeks after training.
Training & Growth Opportunities
- Approximately one month of initial training on laboratory procedures and responsibilities.
- Continued hands‑on training to develop necropsy competency, with rat competency expected over the following few months and mouse competency potentially taking up to six months.
- Histology training provided, with the opportunity to expand into additional histology laboratory responsibilities over time.
- All required laboratory PPE, including lab coats, safety glasses, and gloves, will be provided. Appropriate clothing and closed‑toe shoes are required.
If you’re a recent graduate looking to get started in a research laboratory, gain hands‑on animal research experience, and develop specialized technical skills, this is a great opportunity to build your career.