Sr. Cytogenetics Technologist

Quest Diagnostics•Chantilly, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Sr. Cytogenetics Technologist performs difficult and complex cytogenetics tests requiring independent judgment and responsibility in areas supported by their education, training, and experience. Depending on the assignment, work may include tissue culture; microscopic and post-microscopic analysis and karyotyping; FISH or array testing and analysis; and specimen processing such as slide preparation, pretreatment, hybridization, washing, and counterstaining. The technologist maintains quality control and maintenance records and meets established productivity, quality, and turnaround-time standards. The role handles complex testing and reviews other technologists’ work, documents results and abnormalities using correct ISCN nomenclature, supports troubleshooting, quality control, customer service, and special projects, and helps develop, validate, and implement testing procedures and methodologies. The technologist also maintains a safe and sanitary laboratory, completes training and competency requirements, assists with training personnel and students, follows regulatory and safety requirements, and may take on delegated lead responsibilities.

Requirements

At least five years of full-time experience in a CAP- or CLIA-certified clinical Cytogenetics laboratory; a degree or certificate from an accredited Cytogenetics training program may substitute for the experience.
Bachelor’s degree in Science.
Current ASCP Certification in Cytogenetics (ASCP-CG).
Foreign-educated candidates must provide a detailed credential evaluation from IERF; U.S.-educated candidates must provide a detailed original transcript.
Comprehensive theoretical and operational knowledge of pre-analytical or analytical Cytogenetics testing.
Knowledge of organizational and departmental policies and procedures.
Proven leadership skills and peer respect.
Manual dexterity and excellent pattern-recognition skills.
Detail orientation and the ability to work independently, set priorities, and manage multiple tasks.
Interpersonal skills to interact courteously and effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and clients.
Communication skills to handle client telephone inquiries.
Ability to handle client information confidentially.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook) and Laboratory Information Systems.

Responsibilities

Perform assigned tissue culture activities, including culture initiation, maintenance, harvest, slide preparation, and staining.
Perform microscopic and post-microscopic analyses of assigned specimens, including preparing karyotypes using established procedures.
Perform FISH or array testing and analysis on assigned specimens, maintaining appropriate quality control and maintenance records.
Process specimens for FISH or microarray analysis, including slide preparation, pretreatment, hybridization, post-wash, and counterstaining.
Meet or exceed established productivity and quality control standards.
Perform complex laboratory testing and review the work of other technologists.
Document tissue culture and microscopy analysis records completely and accurately.
Document chromosome or FISH abnormalities using correct ISCN nomenclature and the best assessment of breakpoints.
Follow testing methods and quality standards to ensure accurate specimen processing and results.
Adhere to analytical schedules and turnaround times, including for STAT and critical results.
Support quality control, troubleshooting of complex problems, complex case processing and analysis, customer support, and special projects.
Maintain laboratory areas and equipment in a safe, functional, and sanitary condition.
Complete training and competency checklists as appropriate.
Assist in training laboratory personnel, students, and fellows.
Assist in developing and validating procedures and participate in research, development, and implementation of testing methodologies or modifications.
Follow CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA, and laboratory safety requirements, including the use of required protective equipment and controls.
Participate in government or regulatory agency inspections when needed.
Assume a leadership role within assigned groups and the laboratory; may assume delegated lead responsibilities in a supervisor’s absence if qualified.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Day 1 medical and supplemental health coverage for full-time employees working 30 or more hours.
Dental and vision coverage for full-time employees working 30 or more hours.
Well-being programs.
Annual no-cost health assessment program.
Blueprint for Wellness® healthyMINDS mental health program.
Vacation and Health/Flex Time.
Six holidays plus one “MyDay” off.
FinFit financial coaching and services.
401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service.
Employee stock purchase plan.
Life and disability insurance, with a buy-up option.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Annual incentive plans.
Matching gifts program.
Education assistance through MyQuest for Education.
Career advancement opportunities.