Tissue Trimming Assistant

Colorado State University; United States; On-site; USD 19,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

The Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories is seeking a motivated, detail‑oriented individual to join our Tissue Trimming Team. This position supports preparation and processing of tissue specimens essential for accurate anatomical pathology diagnoses, contributing to veterinary medicine and client service.

Ideal candidates have an interest in veterinary medicine or laboratory sciences, a willingness to learn, and the ability to work in a fast-paced lab environment, with

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Experience in a laboratory setting is helpful but not required.
• Ability to follow PPE guidelines and SOPs.
• Good attention to detail and accuracy in specimen handling.

Responsibilities

• Receive and prepare biopsy specimens for histological analysis.
• Disposal of fixed, frozen, and fresh tissues.
• Mix formalin concentrate to 10% NBF for lab use.
• Stocking supplies, cleaning laboratory spaces, and other duties as assigned.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Dependable

Willingness to learn

Team player

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Laboratory equipment handling

Histology prep

Job description

Position Summary

The Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented, and dependable individual to join our Tissue Trimming Team. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to veterinary diagnostic medicine while gaining hands‑on experience in a fast‑paced, collaborative laboratory environment. The ideal candidate is eager to learn, committed to providing exceptional service to our clients, faculty, and students, and has an interest in veterinary pathology or laboratory sciences. As a member of the Tissue Trimming team, you will assist in the preparation and processing of tissue specimens that are essential for accurate anatomical pathology diagnoses. Individuals with an interest in veterinary medicine, pathology, biological sciences, or laboratory operations are encouraged to apply.

Full Consideration Date: August 10, 2026

The mission of the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories (VDL) is to provide timely, accurate and pertinent animal disease diagnostic services and educational outreach to veterinarians, animal industries and animal interests. The Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory will strive to meet the goals the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and the University through research to develop new approaches to disease identification, investigation, prevention and through education of professional veterinary medical, graduate, and post-doctoral students.

Essential Job Duties

• Receive and prepare biopsy specimens for histological analysis.
• Disposal of fixed, frozen, and fresh tissues.
• Mix formalin concentrate to 10% NBF for lab use.
• Stocking supplies, cleaning laboratory spaces, and other duties as assigned.

Conditions of Employment

Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires). Valid Driver’s License - Must possess or obtain a valid driver’s license by the employment start date and maintain such in good standing for duration of active employment.

Essential Services Designation

Required to report without delay or interruption to provide essential or emergency services to ensure health, safety, and welfare. The CSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory does not follow standard University Holiday Schedule due to the nature of the business. After hours and weekend work may be required. On-Call Status - In the event of an emergency declared by the Veterinary Diagnostic Lab Director, overtime work or work outside normal operating hours will be required.

Handling of and exposure to zoonotic and hazardous materials – This position will handle formalin and formalin‑fixed tissues. This position handles samples that may contain infectious agents and must follow PPE guidelines and appropriate standard operating procedures.

Special Requirements/Other

Must safely lift and carry items that weigh up to 50lbs. May be required to be rabies vaccinated upon hire and maintain protective titers (blood drawn on a schedule determined by CSU Occupational Health to evaluate status).

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED

Preferred Qualifications

Laboratory experience is preferred but not required.

Salary Range

15.50

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Inspired by its land-grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world.