Cytotechnologist - Missouri City - Days

UT MD Anderson Cancer Center•Missouri City, TX

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Cytotechnologist supports diagnostic services at MD Anderson’s Missouri City location by evaluating patient specimens, performing specialized cytology procedures, and helping maintain the quality and accuracy of laboratory testing. The role includes microscopic evaluation of non-gynecologic and fine needle aspiration (FNA) preparations, assistance with FNA sample procurement and triage, and specialized procedures such as cell block preparation, cell transfer, and density gradient preparation for lymphoma marker studies. The Cytotechnologist also evaluates GMS and Iron staining used to identify cellular tissues and pathogens in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) specimens. The position involves accessioning and processing specimens, documenting diagnoses in the pathology database, monitoring specimen integrity, and completing quality control and quality assurance activities. The Cytotechnologist participates in interlaboratory slide reviews, process improvement efforts, special projects, and teaching cytology students through microscopy seminars or presentations. The role also includes designated Main Campus rotations, including on-call coverage for after-hours STAT specimens and procedures requiring immediate assessment. Work hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a related science field (Biology, Chemistry, or Physiology), or graduation from a CAHEA-approved school of Exfoliative Cytology.
Cytotechnologist certification (CT) from the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) Board of Certification, required upon hire.
Cytotechnologists registered before August 1988 were not required to have a bachelor's degree.

Responsibilities

Accession and process cytology specimens according to established procedures, ensuring proper specimen identification.
Assist with procurement and triage of FNA samples.
Participate in Cytology Main Campus rotations, including on-call coverage for after-hours STAT specimens and procedures requiring immediate assessment.
Perform advanced technical procedures, including cell block preparation, cell transfer, and density gradient preparation for lymphoma marker studies.
Evaluate GMS and Iron staining used to identify cellular tissues and pathogens in BAL specimens.
Prepare reagents according to precise instructions, set up the stain hood daily, and assist with equipment maintenance.
Microscopically evaluate gynecologic specimens at Main Campus, as well as non-gynecologic and FNA preparations, and render accurate diagnoses.
Successfully complete annual proficiency testing for gynecologic screening.
Document diagnoses accurately in the Pathology database system according to established guidelines.
Maintain knowledge of processes and pre-analytical procedures to support troubleshooting and problem solving.
Generate appropriate quality-control data according to guidelines.
Participate in interlaboratory slide reviews of non-gynecologic cytopathology slides and process-improvement efforts.
Evaluate specimen integrity and notify appropriate personnel of unacceptable specimens according to departmental procedures.
Perform and document required quality-control and quality-assurance measures, maintaining complete and accurate records; assist with records for pre-analytical and post-analytical indicators.
Assist in teaching cytology students through group microscopy seminars or presentations.
Assist with special projects as assigned.
Perform other duties as assigned.