Cytology Processing Technician

JOB SUMMARY

The Cytology Processing Technician will coordinate and perform tasks and activities in the Cytology department of the Anatomic Pathology Laboratory. The Cytology Processing Technician will be assigned specific areas or responsibilities within the scope of the job as outlined. Depending upon the area of responsibility the Cytology Processing Technician will monitor the status of the workflow of the tasks involved and shall prioritize each task, coordinate the performance of tasks by other techs, and report directly to the Cytology Manager about the completion of tasks. While this position works primarily within the Cytology department, staffing needs may require this person to assist in other areas of the laboratory.

 Avero Diagnostics operates on a 24/7/365 basis; individuals may be required to work various shifts, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays. It is required to have schedule flexibility with and without advanced notice.

 ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

• Accessioning, labeling, and preparation of gynecological specimens. 
• Assists pathologist and cytotechnologist with hospital procedures and in-house bone marrows and keeps the FNA staining kits replenished.
• Process gynecological, ThinPrep specimens utilizing the ThinPrep T5000, and ThinPrep T2000.
• Process gynecological SurePath specimens utilizing BD PrepMate, Slide Prep, MultiProcessor, and Focal Point. 
• Process non-gynecological specimens utilizing direct smears, cytospins, ThinPrep, and F-50 slide-making techniques.
• Stains and coverslips pap smears, and non-gyn sides.
• Maintains, and filters the cytology stain lines
• Assists in cytology equipment service and maintenance.
• Professionally maintains the department, including cleaning and restocking supplies, washing lab equipment, and handling hazardous waste disposal.
• Fundamentally understand and define or identify principles of anatomy, histology, or physiology related to basic laboratory methods.
• Complies with established departmental policies, procedures, objectives, quality assurance, and safety and infection control procedures
• Performs other related tasks as directed by the Cytology Manager or Lead. 
• Maintains all aspects of processing and handling of all specimens are carried out in an accurate and timely manner. 

 EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION/LICENSE 

• A High School Diploma or equivalent is required; a college degree is a plus.
• Active and valid US State-Issued Driver’s License with acceptable motor vehicle record as defined and approved by the company’s vehicle insurance carrier. 

 EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 1 years of experience required.
• Laboratory and/or healthcare environment experience is a plus.

 KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES 

• Exhibits patience and approachability, sets positive tone and example for team member behavior, work ethic & quality, abilities, skills, and overall performance.
• Maintains confidentiality at all levels and consistently acts with high integrity.
• Demonstrates patience, and approachability, and sets a positive tone for team behavior, work ethic, quality, and overall performance, focusing on team success over individual achievement.
• Consistently delivers high-quality work on time and takes responsibility for outcomes.
• Builds and sustains effective relationships with team members across all organizational levels.
• Exhibits professional communication abilities, including listening, writing, and speaking fluently and effectively in English.
• Works effectively both collaboratively within a team and independently with minimal supervision.
• Thrives in fast-paced, high-growth environments, managing competing priorities and frequent interruptions with ease.
• Functions as a responsible, organized self-starter with excellent time management, follow-through, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
• Possesses strong analytical and research skills with a proactive approach to identifying, assessing, and resolving complex challenges and processes.
• Demonstrates effective facilitation, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Skilled in utilizing various software applications, including MS Windows, Outlook, Word, Excel, and healthcare databases/systems.
• Maintains regular, reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Maintains a professional appearance, communication style, and demeanor.

 WORKING CONDITIONS

• This position operates in a fast-paced office and lab environment, requiring adherence to daily workload demands, potential exposure to chemicals, and the use of personal protective equipment and universal precautions.
• The role involves regular use of standard office equipment, including computers, printers, phones, and mobile devices, in a work environment with noise levels ranging from moderate to loud.

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• The position may require exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, 10 pounds frequently, and negligible force constantly to move objects.
• Regular activities include talking, hearing, sitting, standing, walking, using hands to handle or feel, grasping, reaching, and performing repetitive movements with wrists, hands, and fingers.
• Specific vision abilities include close visual acuity and the ability to adjust focus for tasks such as data analysis, reading reports, transcribing, viewing computer monitors, and legally operating a motor vehicle.
• Avero is an equal-opportunity employer and strives to provide a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws.

The duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description are intended to provide a general overview of the primary functions, required knowledge and skills, and scope of responsibility for the role. This is not an exhaustive list of all job requirements, and employees may be asked to perform additional duties, work various shifts, or assist in other areas to cover absences, manage peak workloads, or balance staffing needs. These job details are not intended to create an employment contract and are subject to change at the employer's discretion.