Pulmonary Function Technician

(ID: 2026-3846)

Axle is a bioscience and information technology company that offers advancements in translational research, biomedical informatics, and data science applications to research centers and healthcare organizations nationally and abroad. With experts in biomedical science, software engineering, and program management, we focus on developing and applying research tools and techniques to empower decision-making and accelerate research discoveries. We work with some of the top research organizations and facilities in the country including multiple institutes at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Axle is seeking a Pulmonary Function Technician to join our vibrant team at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) supporting the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) located in Bethesda, MD.

Benefits We Offer:

• 100% Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage for Employees
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• 401K match up to 5%
• Educational Benefits for Career Growth
• Employee Referral Bonus
• Flexible Spending Accounts:
  • Healthcare (FSA)
  • Parking Reimbursement Account (PRK)
  • Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP)
  • Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN)

Position Overview

The Pulmonary Function Technician will perform pulmonary function and exercise testing to generate physiological data for NHLBI research. The role involves working with adult and pediatric patients, monitoring patient responses, maintaining testing equipment, supporting quality assurance, and documenting clinical information.

Responsibilities

• Perform pulmonary function testing, including measurements of lung volumes and airway resistance by body plethysmography, impulse oscillometry, methacholine bronchoprovocation testing, and exhaled nitric oxide measurements.
• Conduct cardiopulmonary exercise tests and six-minute walk tests and collect arterial blood gases while supporting patient safety and comfort.
• Review testing orders and verify completion of pre-study administrative procedures.
• Monitor physiological responses during testing and therapy, consult a physician when adverse reactions occur, and provide first aid as needed.
• Assist in developing standard operating procedures for pulmonary function and exercise testing.
• Set up, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot diagnostic instruments and testing systems to support safe, reliable operation.
• Perform equipment quality checks, work with technical support to resolve issues, and assist with development and maintenance of a comprehensive quality assurance database.
• Train staff, trainees, and other healthcare personnel in testing procedures and the operation of laboratory instruments, equipment, and software.
• Document pertinent clinical information in patient electronic medical records and maintain accurate research and testing records.
• Analyze and interpret research data with laboratory staff and contribute to reports, presentations, posters, and manuscripts.
• Coordinate instrument scheduling and priorities with Principal Investigators and contribute to planning for laboratory resource needs.
• Mentor coworkers, identify training needs, and contribute to quality improvements in laboratory and clinical workflows.
• Protect confidential clinical information and research data in accordance with applicable privacy and data-safeguarding requirements.
• Maintain necessary licensure and current knowledge of relevant clinical policies and technologies.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in biology.
• Valid Basic Life Support (BLS) provider card and either an Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) card.
• Demonstrated clinical skills in pulmonary function testing and working with adult and pediatric patients.
• Experience with quality assurance testing, data collection, and equipment troubleshooting and maintenance.
• Proficiency with Microsoft PowerPoint and Outlook.

Deliverables

• Perform validation activities monthly.
• Inspect equipment as needed.
• Meet with laboratory members weekly to present updates.

Disclaimer: The above description is meant to illustrate the general nature of work and level of effort being performed by individuals assigned to this position or job description. This is not restricted as a complete list of all skills, responsibilities, duties, and/or assignments required. Individuals may be required to perform duties outside of their position, job description or responsibilities as needed.

The diversity of Axle’s employees is a tremendous asset. We are firmly committed to providing equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and will not tolerate any illegal discrimination or harassment based on age, race, gender, religion, national origin, disability, marital status, covered veteran status, sexual orientation, status with respect to public assistance, and other characteristics protected under state, federal, or local law and to deter those who aid, abet, or induce discrimination or coerce others to discriminate.

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact: [email protected]

This role has a market-competitive salary with an anticipated base compensation range listed below. Actual salaries will vary depending on a candidate’s experience, qualifications, skills, and location.

Salary Range

$110,000—$120,000 USD