Histology Laboratory Manager - Zoological Pathology (Brookfield Location)
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Histology Laboratory Manager - Zoological Pathology (Brookfield Location)
Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory
College of Veterinary Medicine
This position provides support to the University of Illinois Zoological Pathology Program (ZPP) that is housed in the Chicago area at the Chicago Zoological Society’s Brookfield Zoo. ZPP is a full-service diagnostic pathology laboratory, part of the University of Illinois Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and accredited by the AAVLD. ZPP diagnoses and investigates disease in wild animals and receives cases from local, national and international partners. See https://vdl.vetmed.illinois.edu/zoological-pathology-program for more information about the program.
Job Summary
Manage the day-to-day operation of the histology laboratory and provide histology technologist expertise. This Laboratory Manager must have a working knowledge of histology techniques and have the capability to perform all standard work involving trimming, embedding, sectioning, and staining of tissues. Laboratory Manager will oversee staff assisting with routine tissue processing tasks.Duties & Responsibilities
- Collect, prepare and process tissues for histopathologic evaluation
a. Routinely trim, embed, section, and stain hard and soft tissues of various sizes and conditions including eyes and bones
b. Prepare tissues for light microscopic study by applying stains that may require microscopic differentiation
c. Review slides for quality control and uphold quality program standards throughout all tasks.
d. Assist in the prosection and collection of tissues for histopathology and ancillary testing. - Supervise laboratory personnel assisting with work assignments in the histology laboratory. Instruct pathology residents in the principles and techniques of histological tissue processing.
- Coordinate histology and in situ hybridization laboratory caseload and work assignments to ensure efficient and accurate completion. Maintain laboratory equipment and implement operating procedures and protocols. Ensure compliance to all QA/QC standards for the laboratory.
- Maintain Histopathology Laboratory
a. Prepare and maintain reagents, solutions, and stains according to standard formulas and SOP’s
b. Maintain laboratory equipment as required according to manufacturer and SOP’s
c. Disposal of residual tissue and maintenance of facilities including performance and documentation of all quality control and assurance metrics. - Assist ZPP Pathologists in development, validation and application of new methods and techniques.
- Other duties as assigned.
Additional Physical Demands
The handling of any biological materials may present some risk of exposure to hazardous materials. Proper safety protocols must be maintained when handling and disposing of all materials. Allergies to hay, straw and pet dander may cause discomfort due to the location of the position.Minimum Qualifications
Per SUCCS Class Specs:
1. Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline closely related to the position
AND
two (2) years (24 months) of work experience in a laboratory or similar setting closely related to the position
OR
Total of five (5) years (60 months) of any combination of education in a scientific discipline and/or work experience in a laboratory or similar setting related to the position.
2. One (1) year (12 months) of supervisory and/or administrative experience. NOTE: A Master’s Degree in an area consistent with the duties of the position may be substituted for one (1) year (12 months) of work experience.
Preferred Qualifications
American Society of Clinical Pathologists registered histologic technician (HT) or histotechnologist (HTL)
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Must have expert knowledge of histology technologies, techniques and procedures
- Ability to recognize exceptions and take appropriate action if necessary
- Ability to work independently
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 2408 - Laboratory Manager position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is 7/1/2026. Salary is commensurate with experience. The budgeted annual salary range for the position is $70,000 to $90,000. Final salary offered will be determined by a thorough assessment of available market data, internal salary equity, candidate experience and qualifications, collective bargaining agreements, and budget constraints. Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.
For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on Friday, April 10, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Karen Terio at kterio@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1035193
Job Category: Off-Campus
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu