Lead Molecular Pathology Technician

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Lead Molecular Pathology Technician to preform research and/or development in collaboration with other scientific and technical staff. May exercise technical discretion in the design, execution, and interpretation of experiments that contribute to project strategies. The Contractor shall assist in the overall maintenance of the ultrastructural and molecular pathology laboratories and coordinate project support for the Molecular Pathology Department. The Contractor shall work independently to assist in developing molecular pathology work plans and participate in budgeting forecasts. The Contractor shall have experience in a variety of molecular techniques such as immunohistochemistry (IHC), in situ hybridization (ISH), immunofluorescent assays (IFA), as well as confocal microscopy, histopathology, and project management. The Contractor shall provide technical support to perform tissue accessioning, and routine and special histological processing on submitted cases. The Contractor should be HTL (ASCP) certified or have significant relevant experience. Variable work hours may apply based on technical job requirements, including occasional night and weekend hours.

This position will be in support of United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) Technical Research Support Services located at Fort Detrick in Frederick, MD. USAMRIID works closely with other U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command (USAMRDC) organizations, Department of Defense (DoD), the Interagency (including Interagency Laboratories), and private companies to accomplish its mission of protecting the Warfighter from biological threats and being prepared to investigate disease outbreaks or threats to public health. This includes conducting Research, Development, Testing, & Evaluation (RDTE) of medical countermeasure against biological threats and the safety, quality assurance, project management, and core support required for these research activities.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

• Contractor shall assist the Molecular Pathology Department Manager in orientation, training, and scheduling of all assigned technicians. Ensure technicians meet all Institute training and laboratory biosafety requirements. Maintain training files as appropriate.
• Contractor shall assist in leading and directing the maintenance and operation of the ultrastructural and molecular pathology laboratories. Ensure laboratories meet biosafety requirements and assigns laboratory responsibilities to others as needed. Ensures laboratories are fully stocked, operational, and meet all inspection requirements.
• Contractor shall actively participate in development and coordination of molecular pathology work plans and budgets in coordination with the Chief, Molecular Pathology Department, Pathology Division.
• Contractor shall accession submitted cases into the pathology database and perform database entry procedures utilizing computer hardware and software. Maintain accurate records of all specimens.
• Contractor shall perform routine and special histological procedures involving specimen trim-in, processing, embedding, sectioning, staining, and archival of completed case materials.
• Contractor shall operate and calibrate specialized equipment to ensure accurate, high-quality results to meet stringent clinical, research and GLP requirements.
• Contractor shall evaluate, modify, or develop procedures to meet special requirements of research studies. Advise and train investigators on methods and materials needed to ensure proper tissue handling and collection, and preservation of specimens for a wide variety of histological, immunohistochemical, and special molecular procedures and assays.
• Contractor shall perform required job-related training, to include GLP training, as necessary IAW Pathology Division policies and procedures.
• Contractor may be required to attend 1 scientific conference annually to obtain continuing education and to ensure cutting edge knowledge and techniques are maintained.
• Contractor shall participate in manuscript development and preparation for publication of research as required.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree and 7 years' related experience or Master's Degree with a 3 years' related experience required

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of complex laboratory procedures
• Ability to meet deadlines of projects
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• US Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a T3/Secret Clearance and BRPR, CPRP, and/or CSPRP, including background check and drug screening.

Physical Capabilities

• Maintain sufficient health to meet enrollment criteria and maintain eligibility in USAMRIID's Biological Personnel Reliability Program (BPRP), Chemical Personnel Reliability Program (CPRP) and/or Controlled Substances Personnel Reliability Program (CSPRP).
• Current on routine adult immunizations or proof of active immunity against HBV, MMR, Influenza, COVID-19, Tdap. Employees working directly with patients or research participants must receive a negative TB test.
• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 10 lbs.
• Ability to stand or sit at a computer for prolonged periods.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Compensation

• The annual salary range for this position is $57,650 - $93,100. Actual salary will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.