Cytogenetic Technologist II - Pathology & Immunology

Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

Performs high-complexity tests in the Clinical Genomics Cytogenetics laboratory under direct supervision; reports findings of tests to the director/supervisor; participates in research projects and takes responsibilities assigned by the director, manager, and supervisor.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

Demonstrates the cytogenetic technical and computer skills required for the cytogenetic laboratory.

• Prepares reagents used in laboratory procedures.
• Performs routine and complex laboratory procedures.
• Performs cell culture, understands and uses aseptic technique.
• Performs cell harvest and prepares slides suitable for analysis.
• Performs FISH techniques and analysis as needed.
• Assesses the quality of samples for cell culture.
• Demonstrates proficiency in maintenance and use of various types of microscopes.
• Demonstrates proficiency in operating, cleaning and maintenance of laboratory instrumentation.
• Detects and evaluates aneuploidy and gross structural abnormalities in banded preparations and accurately documents this analysis.
• Demonstrates proficiency using Cytovision system, including capturing images and preparing karyotypes.
• Evaluates karyotyped chromosomes for subtle, previously undetected structural abnormalities.
• Demonstrates facility for detecting small structural aberrations, aneuploidies involving low-level mosaicism and numerical abnormalities involving small-marker chromosomes using high-resolution preparations.
• Assigns break points for structural abnormalities and uses appropriate ISCN nomenclature.
• Summarizes the results of the case studies for preparation of the final report.
• Maintains ASCP(CG)CM Certification.
• Demonstrates increased productivity relative to experience.
  
  

Demonstrates knowledge of and upholds applicable laws and regulations related to the position.

• Wears appropriate personal protective gear for the particular task.
• Performs quality control procedures as required and documents “out of control results”.
• Performs and documents daily, weekly and monthly tasks as assigned.
• Reviews and signs all applicable laboratory manuals on an annual basis.
• Participates in quality assurance and continuing education programs.
• Participates in laboratory proficiency testing.
• Initiates and completes all records and paperwork on cytogenetic samples of orders as required.
  
  

Participates in appropriate training and coaching for the cytogenetics laboratory.

• Assists in training new employees, student and residents in technical procedures as assigned and provides input into their evaluations as requested.
• Assists in the instruction of others in performing quality control and quality assurance responsibilities.
• Participates in the continuing refinement of current, standard protocols.
• Participates in training and education opportunities appropriate for eligibility for ASCP certification in cytogenetics.
• Responds to staff inquiries with courtesy.
  
  

Demonstrates the ability to communicate with staff, clients, patients and parents.

• Demonstrates ability to present information through presentation oral or written, in a clear and concise manner.
• Demonstrates ability to facilitate activities as required.
• Demonstrates ability to work effectively and cooperatively as a member of a large team.
• Demonstrates ability to communicate in a professional manner at all times and to recognize cultural diversity in the workplace.
  
  

Demonstrates the ability to make determinations regarding a course of action and alternatives.

• Recognizes and treats as appropriate the unique responses of different samples of cells to standardized conditions of culture.
• Demonstrates ability to select metaphase cells that meet defined criteria for inclusion in a study.
• Uses information from quality control checks to predict and avoid problems.
• Demonstrates the ability to adjust to change, handle interruptions and function with changing circumstances.
• Selects and applies special staining methods when appropriate.
• Collects cytogenetic data to make clinically unsuspected diagnoses and to be able to prepare partial karyotypes to support the conclusions.
  
  

Assists supervisor with other duties and special projects as needed.

Working Conditions:

Job Location/Working Conditions

• Requires protective devices
  
  

Equipment

• Lab/research equipment
  
  

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Education:

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.

Certifications:

No specific certification is required for this position.

Work Experience:

Cytogenetics Laboratory (3 Years)

Skills:

Not Applicable

Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position.

Preferred Qualifications:

More About This Job

• Knowledge of the following: microscopy, digital cellular photography; metaphase analysis, computer-assisted karyotyping; culture techniques.
  
  

Education:

Preferred Qualifications

No additional education beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Certifications:

Cytotechnologist (CT) - American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), Technologist in Cytogenetics, CG(ASCP)CM - American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), Technologist in Cytogenetics, CG(ASCP)CM - within 2 years - American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)

Work Experience:

No additional work experience beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Skills:

Biological Studies, Clinical Reporting, Customer Service, Cytogenetics, Detail-Oriented, Issue Escalation, Medical Sciences, Prioritization, Working Independently

Grade

C11-H

Salary Range

$27.00 - $41.87 / Hourly

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
• Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.
  
  

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!
  
  

Family

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.
• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.
  
  

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO/AA Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.