Cytogenetic Technologist I

Quest Diagnostics • Royal Oak, MI

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Performs tests requiring the exercise of independent judgment and responsibility in those sub-specialties in which they are qualified by education, training, and experience. This role involves various aspects of cytogenetics, including tissue culture, microscopic analysis, molecular cytogenetics (FISH or array), and fluorescence in situ hybridization. The technologist is responsible for accurate specimen processing, test result analysis, documentation, and maintaining laboratory standards.

Requirements

• One (1) year full-time experience in a clinical Cytogenetics laboratory.
• Bachelor’s Degree Science.
• Foreign educated candidates must provide a detailed credential evaluation from IERF (International Education Research Foundation).
• United States educated candidates must provide a detailed original transcript.
• Requires manual dexterity and excellent pattern recognition skills.
• Must be detail-oriented, have the ability to work independently, establish work priorities and to handle several tasks simultaneously for maximum department efficiency.
• Interpersonal skills necessary to deal courteously and effectively with supervisors, co-workers and clients.
• Communication skills necessary to handle telephone inquiries from clients.
• Ability to deal with client information in a confidential manner.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook) and Laboratory Information Systems.

Nice To Haves

• Current ASCP Certification in Cytogenetics [ASCP-CG]

Responsibilities

• Accurately and efficiently perform tissue culture of assigned specimen types, including culture initiation, maintenance, harvest, slide preparation and staining for microscopic analysis.
• Perform accurate microscopic/post-microscopic analyses of assigned specimen types, including preparing karyotypes using established cytogenetic laboratory procedures.
• Accurately and efficiently perform FISH or array on assigned specimen types, including maintaining appropriate QC and maintenance records.
• Perform accurate analysis of FISH or array on assigned specimen types.
• Accurately and efficiently process assigned specimen types, including slide preparation, pretreatment, hybridization, post wash, and counterstain for microscopic analysis using appropriate quality control standards.
• Perform accurate microscopic/post-microscopic analyses of assigned specimen types meeting or exceeding established productivity and quality control standards.
• Document and maintain tissue culture and/or microscopy analysis records completely and accurately.
• Document chromosome or FISH abnormalities using correct ISCN nomenclature and best assessment of breakpoints.
• Ensure accurate specimen processing/test results by strict adherence to testing methodology and quality standards.
• Adhere to analytical schedules to maintain turnaround time of results including STATS or critical results to clients.
• Maintain laboratory areas and equipment in a safe, functional and sanitary condition.
• Complete training and competency checklists as appropriate.
• May assist supervisor with training of other laboratory personnel, students and fellows.
• Adheres to all established CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA and laboratory safety requirements.
• Required to use (a) personal protective equipment, (b) engineering controls and/or (c) work practice controls as directed by management.
• Participate in government or regulatory agency inspections, if needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Vacation and Health/Flex Time (part-time employees scheduled to work at least 20 hours per week)
• 6 Holidays plus 1 “MyDay” off (if regularly scheduled to work 20+ hours per week)
• 401(k) pre-tax and/or ROTH IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
• Annual, no-cost health assessment program
• Blueprint for Wellness®

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level