Cytogenetics Technologist, Cytogenetics Laboratory - Day Shift

Job Description

Be a part of a world-class academic healthcare system, UChicago Medicine, as a Cytogenetics Technologist in the Cytogenetics Department.  Here, you will perform esoteric testing to support Cancer and Pediatrics services lines. You will perform complex genetic testing (chromosome analysis, FISH and microarray methodologies) to identify abnormalities in tumor cells to support diagnosis, prognosis, and monitor treatment plans in patients with hematological malignancies and other cancers. This lab will maintain timely results for key time-dependent diagnostic & treatment decisions.  This department is the Cytogenetics Laboratory Department. This position is a 100% onsite opportunity. You will need to be based in the greater Chicagoland area.

Eligible for a Sign On Bonus up to $10,000

Routinely performs clinical cytogenetics assays using a wide range of methodologies and instrumentation according to laboratory policies and procedures and in accordance with all regulatory agency requirements. Applies clinical knowledge and technical expertise to achieve accurate test results in a timely manner to support quality patient outcomes. Participates in the development and evaluation of new laboratory methodologies and instrumentation.

Essential Job Functions 

• Receives specimens submitted to laboratory
• Utilizes policies and procedures for requisition and specimen requirements to determine whether the submitted specimen can be processes for analysis
• Sets up cultures from various specimen types
• Harvests cultures and prepares slides for analysis
• Reports all test results in the laboratory information system according to laboratory policies and procedures, within stated turn-around times, and follows appropriate backup procedures during computer downtimes
• Practices the proficient and safe use of all equipment necessary for the completion of all duties and responsibilities by following all maintenance, safety and quality controls policies and procedures
• Performs microscopic chromosome and FISH analysis and microarray as assigned
• Is able to identify complex abnormalities 
• Practices the proficient and safe use of all equipment necessary for the completion of all duties and responsibilities by following all maintenance, safety and quality controls policies and procedures
• Answers inquiries regarding specimen handling, results and other technical information
• Appropriately assists clinicians with requests and seeks out resources necessary when information is not available to answer questions

• Analyzes all test and quality control results for errors, inconsistencies and deviations prior to reporting results

• Initiates and documents troubleshooting and problem solving to resolve issues

• Analyzes all test and quality control results for errors, inconsistencies, and deviations prior to reporting results and initiates and documents troubleshooting and problem solving to resolve issues

• Communicates any pertinent information or problems with laboratory team and supervisors in a respectful and proactive manner

• Prepares and maintains adequate stock of reagents, standards, and control materials for the performance of testing at assigned workstation and notifies supervisor of any shortages or problems

• Assists in training new employees, students, pathology residents, others

• Assists in new testing, procedures and equipment validation and implementation

• Participates in process improvement initiatives as invited by the supervisor

• Other duties as assigned 

Required Qualifications 

• Must satisfy CLIA’88 qualification requirements for testing personnel performing high complexity testing

• Bachelor’s degree in clinical laboratory science, molecular biology or related field from an accredited college or university 

• Certification or eligibility as Medical Laboratory Scientist or molecular biology (MB), through the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) or equivalent  

• Knowledge and ability to use laboratory/hospital information systems, automated, and conventional laboratory equipment

• Organization of time, materials, and processes 

Preferred Qualifications 

• At least one year of pertinent laboratory (clinical or research) experience preferred in performing cytogenetics testing using multiple techniques including cell culture and harvest, FISH, and G-banded chromosome analysis

 Position Details 

• Job Type/FTE: Full Time  (1.00)
• Shift:  Days Every 4th weekend
• Work Location: Hyde Park
• Unit/Department: Cytogenetics Lab
• CBA Code:  Non-Union

Why Join Us

We’ve been at the forefront of medicine since 1899. We provide superior healthcare with compassion, always mindful that each patient is a person, an individual. To accomplish this, we need employees with passion, talent and commitment… with patients and with each other. We’re in this together: working to advance medical innovation, serve the health needs of the community, and move our collective knowledge forward. If you’d like to add enriching human life to your profile, UChicago Medicine is for you. Here at the forefront, we’re doing work that really matters. Join us. Bring your passion.

UChicago Medicine is growing; discover how you can be a part of this pursuit of excellence at: UChicago Medicine Career Opportunities.

UChicago Medicine is an equal opportunity employer.  We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, civil union status, parental status, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status and other legally protected characteristics.

Must comply with UChicago Medicine’s COVID-19 Vaccination requirement as a condition of employment. If you have already received the vaccination, you must provide proof as part of the pre-employment process. This is in addition to your compliance with the Flu Vaccination requirement as well. Medical and religious exemptions will be considered consistent with applicable law. Lastly, a pre-employment physical, drug screening, and background check are also required for all employees prior to hire.

Compensation & Benefits Overview

UChicago Medicine is committed to transparency in compensation and benefits.  The pay range provided reflects the anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position.

The pay range is based on a full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) and is reflective of current market data, reviewed on an annual basis. Compensation offered at the time of hire will vary based on candidate qualifications and experience and organizational considerations, such as internal equity. Pay ranges for employees subject to Collective Bargaining Agreements are negotiated by the medical center and their respective union.

Review the full complement of benefit options for eligible roles at Benefits - UChicago Medicine.