Histopathology Technician

Military Treatment Facilities under DHA • Bethesda, MD

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Histopathology Technician works in the Department of Anatomical Pathology at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. The role is part of the Directorate of Clinical Support and is being recruited through a Direct Hire Authority solicitation for appointment to the competitive service.

The technician receives laboratory testing requests and specimens, embeds tissue for sectioning, stains tissue sections using histochemical and advanced techniques, prepares frozen sections, and assists pathologists or pathology residents with surgical gross descriptions and processing. The technician also assists with calibrating, standardizing, and adjusting instruments.

The position requires eligibility for and maintenance of a Secret security clearance or access, background investigation and credit check, immunization screening, and pre-employment and annual physical examinations. Moderate to heavy lifting of up to 50 pounds may be required. As a mission-essential employee, the incumbent may need to report or remain at work during severe weather or emergencies and may be required to work on call during irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, or varying schedules. Available duty hours are 0900–1730, 1000–1830, 1100–1930, or 1400–2230.

Requirements

• One year of specialized experience assisting with cutting and staining human tissue specimens for microscopic examinations, testing and examining body fluids, and maintaining and calibrating pathology equipment and instruments; or one full year of graduate-level education in a directly related field such as Biology; or a qualifying combination of education and experience.
• Must be a U.S. citizen and provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
• Must obtain and maintain eligibility for a Secret security clearance or access for the duration of employment.
• Must complete a background investigation and credit check.
• Immunization screening is required; Hepatitis B immunization is required for positions with direct patient contact, and other immunization proof may be required depending on the position.
• Must meet annual seasonal influenza vaccination requirements unless exempted for medical or religious reasons, with documentation of exemption provided upon hire.
• Must complete a pre-employment physical examination and annual examinations thereafter.
• Must be able to meet moderate to heavy lifting demands of up to 50 pounds, as required.
• May be required to work on call during irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, and to report or remain at work during severe weather or emergencies.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959 must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
• Must complete a one-year probationary period; continued employment requires written certification that it advances the public interest.
• Direct deposit of pay is required.

Nice To Haves

• Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates.

Responsibilities

• Embed tissue of all sizes in the appropriate medium and manner for correct sectioning.
• Receive laboratory testing requests and specimens.
• Stain tissue sections, including using histochemical and other advanced staining techniques.
• Prepare frozen sections.
• Assist a pathologist or pathology resident with surgical gross descriptions and processing.
• Assist with calibration, standardization, and adjustment of instruments.

Benefits

• Federal employees and their families have access to a comprehensive benefits package; specific benefits depend on position type and should be confirmed with the hiring agency.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed