Cytology Lab Technician M-F 10am-6:30pm

Position Summary / Career Interest:

Receives, accessions, and processes all specimens in Cytology including Gynecologic, Non-Gynecologic, and Fine Needle Aspirations specimens. Work includes assigning accession numbers, Thin-prep processing, manual staining, operation of automated stainer and centrifuge, changing reagents, cover-slipping and cell block preparation. Performs processing of tiny irretrievable biopsies that are essential for cytologic/pathologic diagnosis. Requires precise error free handling to maintain specimen integrity and ensure accurate diagnosis. Must stay calm and organized in a high stress, fast-paced environment and have the ability to prioritize their work.


Responsibilities and Essential Job Functions

• Receives, accessions, and processes all specimens in Cytology including Gynecologic, Non-Gynecologic, and Fine Needle Aspirations specimens
• Assists with fine needle aspiration collection in a variety of settings including radiology and perioperative procedures, maximizing cellular recovery and preservation.
• Maintains single piece workflow ensuring the identity of each specimen is accurately maintained by always using two patient identifiers
• Properly label all specimens with case number and part type.
• Accurately performs entry of complex data such as patient demographics, insurance information, and diagnostic codes in both hospital and laboratory information systems, according to hospital and laboratory policies and procedures, as well as compliance requirements.
• Routinely files gynecologic, non-gynecologic, and fine needle aspiration slides, as well as accompanying requisitions and worksheets
• Accurately registers patients in the health system information system to include creating visits/encounters as needed.
• Disposes of biohazardous materials, chemical waste, sharps, and other potentially hazardous materials according to policy, and strictly to safety and infection control procedures.
• Maintains and operates equipment, while being responsible for completion of all quality control, safety and preventative maintenance logs on a daily, weekly and monthly basis.
• Recognizes laboratory's quality assurance indicators such as those for specimen collection, specimen handling, and specimen identification. Contacts physician offices to obtain missing information and improper collection and documents appropriately.
• Assists with supply distribution and providing collection information to clinics. Maintains an adequate inventory of supplies, reagents, solutions, and office supplies to assure uninterrupted work flow.
• Participates in the preparation for JCAHO and CAP inspections.
• May assist with the orientation and training of new employees.
• Uses and wears PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) as necessary to perform job duties safely and minimize risk.
• Must be able to perform the professional, clinical and or technical competencies of the assigned unit or department.
• These statements are intended to describe the essential functions of the job and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. Skills and duties may vary dependent upon your department or unit. Other duties may be assigned as required.

Required Education and Experience

• Associates Degree in Science or 60 semester hours from an accredited college or university, with a combination of 12 semester hours in biology and chemistry (must include credit hours in both), which may be obtained within or, in addition to, the associate degree.
• High School Graduate or equivalent.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Bachelor of Science in Biology or Chemistry
• 2 or more years in healthcare, laboratory specific experience
• Processing and accessioning of specimens, hospital/ laboratory information systems
• Training and/or competence in medical terminology is preferred either through completed coursework or on-the-job experience.

Required Language Skills

• English -

Knowledge Requirements

• Must have a basic understanding and knowledge of human anatomy/physiology and medical terminology.

We are an equal employment opportunity employer without regard to a person’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and sexual orientation), national origin, ancestry, age (40 or older), disability, veteran status or genetic information.