Medical Technologist II (Cytology Supervisor)

Location: Chicago, IL USA – On-Site

FTE: 1 – Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM

About UI Health

The University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System (UI Health) provides comprehensive care, education, and research to the people of Illinois and beyond. A part of the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), UI Health comprises a clinical enterprise that includes a Joint Commission-accredited tertiary care hospital, outpatient clinics, and the Mile Square Health Center network of federally qualified health centers. It also includes the seven UIC health science colleges: the College of Applied Health Sciences; the College of Dentistry; the School of Public Health; the Jane Addams College of Social Work; and the Colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Nursing, including regional campuses in Peoria, Quad Cities, Rockford, Springfield, and Urbana. UI Health is dedicated to the pursuit of health equity.

About the Role

The Medical Technologist II (Cytology Supervisor) supervises subordinate technologists, technicians, aides, and assistants performing a variety of tests of a moderately or highly complex nature. In this capacity, they ensure efficient, accurate, and timely reporting of test and examination results. The supervisor also performs routine complex tests involving delicate and exacting steps, provides troubleshooting expertise, and assists with the instruction of laboratory personnel and students. Responsibilities include overseeing all quality control/quality assurance activities in Cytology, preventative maintenance, supply monitoring, implementation of new testing, and other duties assigned by the Anatomical Pathology Manager.

Responsibilities

• Perform complex microscopic evaluations according to laboratory policies and procedures.
• Assist other cytotechnologists with troubleshooting and provide quality control/assurance guidance.
• Independently perform Adequacy Assessment of Image-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration, with Fellow/Resident and/or Faculty backup.
• Ensure continuous workflow of the laboratory through close communication with cytotechnologists.
• Review test results before reporting, using technical and scientific knowledge to verify validity and clinical relevance; consult with the Medical Director for unusual or unanticipated results.
• Coordinate and participate in research and development projects.
• Prepare, review, and update laboratory procedure manuals.
• Prepare for inspections and surveys related to accreditation requirements.
• Write new procedures as new testing is introduced into the Cytology Laboratory.
• Conduct Performance Management (PMS) reviews, employee discipline, and counseling.
• Assist in employee recruitment and interview processes.
• Prepare staffing schedules and conduct periodic staff meetings.
• Coordinate training of personnel, complete training checklists, and conduct competency evaluations.
• Maintain professional and helpful interactions with physicians, staff, visitors, and customers.
• Maintain quality control checks in the cytopreparatory area.
• Use laboratory information systems for resulting, lookup, and billing functions, including downtime procedures.
• Coordinate CAP proficiency testing and perform established Quality Control reviews of cases.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and up-to-date records of Cytology Laboratory activities in compliance with Federal, State, and CAP guidelines.
• Participate in data collection and monitoring of quality assurance activities as determined by department policy.
• Complete Quality Assurance Investigation Logs to document matters requiring follow-up or corrective action.
• Perform Quality Assurance (QA) functions, ensuring integrity in the accurate performance and reporting of results.

Requirements

• High school graduation or equivalent.
• Meets basic standards and qualifications for laboratory testing for general supervisory personnel under Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), Subpart M, Section 493.1461.
• Bachelor’s degree in Science that meets CLIA requirements to perform high complexity testing.

Preferred Qualifications

• Meets educational requirements set forth by CLIA88, Subpart M, 493.1483.
• Familiarity with and ability to maintain compliance with College of American Pathologists (CAP) accreditation and CLIA 88 requirements for the Cytology laboratory.
• Baccalaureate Degree and graduation from a U.S. accredited (CAAHEP) program in Cytotechnology, with at least three years of screening experience and two years of supervisory experience.
• Completion of a supervisory training course.
• ThinPrep Certified by Hologic LP or a designee, and Imaged ThinPrep Certification.
• Complete understanding of theoretical applications in all aspects of cytodiagnosis, including gynecologic, non-gynecologic, and aspiration biopsy cytology.
• Thorough knowledge of all aspects of cytopreparation, including routine and special stains, fixatives, and procedures.
• Ability to examine slides and concentrate for long periods using a microscope, with normal color perception.
• Ability to make accurate observations and diagnoses.
• Knowledge of correct procedures for handling potentially infectious specimen material to prevent contamination.
• Understanding of laboratory quality assurance programs and procedures.
• Ability to identify personnel problems and apply University Civil Service Policies and Rules for progressive discipline.
• Strong communication skills for productive interactions with peers, superiors, healthcare staff, and visitors.
• Understanding of the function of medical laboratories in the healthcare environment.
• Flexibility for work performance within the laboratory setting, with a professional appearance and attitude.
• Ability to independently plan and complete work.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Tuition waivers for employees and dependents

Pay

Salary Range: $69,867.20–$141,377.60 (commensurate with experience)