Work Location: Silver Spring, Maryland
Anatomical Laboratory Specialist

Work Schedule / Availability
Standard duty hours: 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Monday–Friday

Role Description:
Provides technical laboratory support for anatomical specimen care and histology operations. Performs specimen conservation and documentation; supports necropsy/autopsy activities; executes tissue preservation and histological preparation; maintains laboratory equipment; manages associated data records; and ensures full compliance with BSL-2 safety and biosafety requirements.

Functional Responsibilities:

Specimen Conservation & Handling:

• Perform specimen conservation tasks to preserve anatomical materials and maintain specimen integrity.
• Prepare, label, store, and handle specimens in accordance with approved procedures and tracking requirements.

Histology & Tissue Processing:

• Conduct tissue preservation and fixation.
• Perform embedding, microtomy, and staining using established histology techniques.
• Prepare slides and supporting documentation consistent with laboratory standards.

Necropsy/Autopsy Support:

• Assist with necropsy/autopsy procedures (setup, instrument readiness, specimen handling, cleanup).
• Support proper documentation and handling practices during procedures.

Data Management & Tracking:

• Maintain accurate specimen records in spreadsheets and databases, including updates to specimen status and location.
• Coordinate specimen tracking activities with the Registrar to ensure complete and auditable records.

Equipment Operation & Maintenance:

• Operate laboratory equipment required for specimen preparation and histology workflows.
• Perform routine cleaning, calibration checks (as applicable), and preventive maintenance; document maintenance actions.
• Identify equipment issues and coordinate servicing/repairs through appropriate channels.

Biosafety & Compliance (BSL-2):

• Follow all BSL-2 requirements including PPE, decontamination, waste handling, exposure control procedures, and incident reporting.
• Maintain required safety training and occupational health/medical clearances, including respirator qualification as required.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education / Experience / Certifications:

Experience: 5+ years relevant laboratory experience supporting anatomical, histology, or closely related lab operations. Experience supporting audits/inspections and maintaining lab logs

Biosafety/Medical:

Ability to obtain and maintain BSL-2 eligibility, respirator clearance, and required occupational health clearances.
Demonstrated proficiency with lab techniques and equipment maintenance.

Required: Associate’s degree in Anatomy, Biology, Physical Anthropology, or a related life science field.

Desired: Bachelor's degree in related field (Anatomy, Biology, Physical Anthropology, or Museum Studies with a biological focus).

Tools / Technical Skills:

Histology processing workflow (fixation, embedding, sectioning/microtomy, staining).

Laboratory documentation and data entry in spreadsheets/databases.

Equipment operation, routine maintenance, and compliance recordkeeping.

Physical Requirements:
Must be able to work at computer for extended periods of time. Must be able to have repetitive wrist/hand/finger movement to work on computer and/or related office equipment. May be required to stand/walk, grasp, reach, stoop/kneel/crouch, or climb/balance. Occasionally required to drive to other locations. Must have clarity of vision, three-dimensional vision, precise hand-eye coordination, and ability to identify and distinguish colors in order to observe and inspect construction sites.

Please note: Mano Lani LLC reserves the right to change or modify job duties and assignments at any time. The above job description is not all encompassing. Positions functions and qualifications may vary depending on business needs.

Mano Lani LLC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants based on race, color, creed, religion, medical condition, legally protected genetic information, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, or Vietnam era, or other eligible veteran status or legally protected characteristics.