Cytology Technologist

About the role

Responsible for the preparation, analysis and evaluation of cytologic smears for the presence or absence of normal/abnormal cellular patterns, presence of micro-organisms, inflammatory reactions, endocrinopathies, benign changes, pre-malignant changes, neoplasia and cellular responses to therapeutic agents. May perform HPV testing, Immunocytochemistry and other molecular techniques as required.

Essential Functions

• Prepares specimens for analysis by centrifugation and other methods, following prescribed protocol for each particular type of specimen.
• Maintains chain of custody, verifies two matching identifiers for all specimens.
• Signs out negative GYN slides, reviews quality control cases if CLIA ‘88 eligible, refers all others to a pathologist for further analyses.
• Evaluates Non-gynecological cells under the microscope; categorizes into five classifications: negative, atypical, suspicious, non-diagnostic or positive-malignant.
• Ability to perform HPV testing, Immunocytochemistry and other molecular techniques as required.
• Performs Toluidine blue evaluation as needed.
• Performs laboratory quality control by adhering to test protocols and standards and performs regulatory/quality evaluations as appropriate.
• Participates in intradepartmental rotations including gyn and non-gyn screening, rapid interpretations and special stains, may include molecular testing, specimen preparation, FNA clinic and clerical assignments.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Biology required.
• Licenses and Credentials: Certified Medical Technologist (MLT, MT, MLA, Histologists) preferred; CT(ASCP) strongly preferred.
• Experience: 2–3 years of cytotechnologist experience required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to screen and diagnose Gyn and Non-gyn cytology cases accurately and timely.
• Must understand and comply with regulatory guidelines regarding screening limits.
• Extreme alertness, precision and caution must be displayed.
• Must be capable of adapting to all software systems necessary to perform duties.

Physical Requirements

• Standing: Frequently (34–66%)
• Walking: Frequently (34–66%)
• Sitting: Occasionally (3–33%)
• Lifting: Frequently (34–66%), 35 lbs+ (with assisted device)
• Carrying: Frequently (34–66%), 20–35 lbs
• Pushing: Occasionally (3–33%)
• Pulling: Occasionally (3–33%)
• Climbing: Rarely (less than 2%)
• Balancing: Frequently (34–66%)
• Stooping: Occasionally (3–33%)
• Kneeling: Occasionally (3–33%)
• Crouching: Occasionally (3–33%)
• Crawling: Rarely (less than 2%)
• Reaching: Frequently (34–66%)
• Gross Manipulation (Handling): Frequently (34–66%)
• Fine Manipulation (Fingering): Frequently (34–66%)
• Feeling: Constantly (67–100%)
• Vision – Far: Constantly (67–100%)
• Vision – Near: Constantly (67–100%)
• Talking: Constantly (67–100%)
• Hearing: Constantly (67–100%)

Pay

$39.53 – per hour, Grade 6