Histology Technician II

Prepares, including trimming, embedding and processing, formalin fixed or frozen tissues according to established protocols to generate blocks for microscopic slide production by either automated or manual methods as applicable. Prepares microscopic slides, including microtoming, staining, cover slipping, from formalin fixed, paraffin embedded or frozen tissues according to established procedures regardless of route of submission while maintaining established turnaround times. Performs specialized histochemical and molecular procedures, e.g. special stains, immunohistochemistry, in-situ hybridization, etc. on FFPE and frozen tissue or other samples, e.g. cell pellets, either automated or manually. Prepares samples for other DCPAH sections.

Performs daily data entry into Cerner. Ensures accurate test ordering and billing for both routine and research cases. Manage block archives. Works with clients, pathologists, residents, students, researchers and other DCPAH staff to trouble shoot technical and submission problems. Conduct yourself in professional and courteous manner toward clients and employees.  

Trims fixed tissues regardless of route of submission maintaining proper turnaround times. Make the data entry into PTOE and Transcription.  Decal fixed samples when needed. Fixes tissues in formic acid or formalin if needed. Stores and disposes wet tissues according to EHS guidelines. Transport and load trimmed tissues onto the tissue processors in the Histolab. Takes and annotates pictures of fixed tissues using the Spot Software and digital camera.
Works effectively as individual and in teams and exercise good time management. Attendance record must be kept to university standards. Maintains a safe and clean work environment. Maintains standards for QA/QC records, maintain EHS and DCPAH Quality Manual records. Performs preventative maintenance and minor repairs of complex lab equipment and calibrates instruments. Maintains proper PPE according to EHS requirements and ensures that personnel working in the different laboratory sections follow proper PPE protocols.

Maintains laboratory supplies (ordering, inventory and stocking); mixes reagents and other stock solutions, disposes of toxic/hazardous solutions and chemicals according to EHS guidelines. You may be asked to work as a team leader, participate in audits. Participates in DCPAH activities, staff meetings and process improvement efforts. Follows and drafts Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s).

The VDL is a premier veterinary diagnostic laboratory for companion animals and horses a s well as for livestock, laboratory, zoo, and wildlife species. The VDL performs more than one million tests per year on samples submitted from across the state of Michigan, the United States, and more than 25 countries. It has outstanding veterinary medical professionals and facilities and is world-renowned for expertise in endocrinology and cancer diagnostics.

The College's vision is to be the destination for teaching, innovation, care, and service. Six goals, backed by specific strategies, guide our organization as we move forward. Read more at https://cvm.msu.edu/about/strategic-planning-20 21-26/goals to learn about the MSU College of Veterinary Medicines goals, strategies and progress.

Knowledge normally acquired in the first two or three years in college, technical or vocational school in Histology or Chemistry; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in performing histochemical procedures, preparing slides and training others; or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Resume/CV, cover letter, 3 professional references (including phone and email address)

Working hours are between 8:30 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. and may vary to include weekends and holidays on a rotational basis. The position will also require flexibility in scheduling and is subject to callback in the case of laboratory need and/or

HTTPS://CVM.MSU.EDU/VDL

Exposure to unfixed animal tissue.

Advertised: Oct 21, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Nov 3, 2026 Eastern Standard Time

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