Technical Lead, Laboratory Cytogenetics Department - Days

University of Chicago Medicine•Chicago, IL

17d•Onsite

About The Position

Be a part of a world-class academic healthcare system, UChicago Medicine , as a Technical Specialist in the Cytogenetics D epartment . Here, you will c onduct microscopic examination of cellular samples, interpret gynecologic cellular samples within normal limits, and provide preliminary cytologic interpretation for non-gynecologic and abnormal gynecologic specimens. Assists with specimens adequacy assessment during procedures and is responsible for quality control and instrument maintenance. Works collaboratively with colleagues, participates in process improvement projects, and trains Cytotechnology students. This department is the Cytogenetics Laboratory . This position is a 100% onsite opportunity . You will need to be based in the greater Chicagoland area. In consultation with the Laboratory Manager, Laboratory Supervisor, and Medical Director, the Technical Lead serves as the primary specialist in a defined area of subspecialty expertise in the Clinical Laboratories. Responsibilities include development, implementation, evaluation and performance of tests, systems and procedures, staff training and competency, assuming a leadership role in the process of continuous quality improvement, and participation in the laboratory accreditation cycle. Provides leadership in performing complex clinical pathology testing and instrument management of an advanced nature as defined for the specific clinical laboratory service. Ability to perform a wide range of clinical analyses in all sections of the laboratory by properly utilizing a variety of methodologies and instrumentation according to laboratory policies and procedures and in accordance with all regulatory agency requirements in order to provide results of the highest level of quality to physicians and our patients.

Requirements

Must satisfy CLIA 88 qualification requirements for general supervisor who oversees testing personnel performing high complexity testing
Bachelor's or advanced degree in clinical laboratory science or related field, from an accredited college or university
At least six years of prior work experience applicable to the specific technical discipline
Certification or eligibility as Medical Laboratory Scientist, (MLS) through American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) or equivalent
Knowledge and ability to use laboratory and hospitals information systems
Ability to use and understand basic statistical concepts and methods that are commonly utilized in clinical laboratory science.
Proficiency in laboratory data analytics
Ability to interact in a professional manner with individuals at all levels
Exceptional organizational skills, ability to work in stress situations, and pay attention to details

Nice To Haves

Certification in Cytogentics (CG) through ASCP

Responsibilities

Serves as a subject matter expert within specific laboratory department
Acts as lead in the development, evaluation, validation, and implementation of new clinical laboratory procedures, equipment, and processes
Completes assigned projects and tasks in a timely manner with little or no supervision and engages the team in projects
Identifies laboratory and clinical needs related to area of subspecialty expertise including projects, initiatives, quality assurance, and compliance
Provide guidance to testing personnel performing moderate and high complexity testing
Acts as knowledgeable leader to assist Medical Laboratory Scientist and Technicians
Resolves technical problems, performs advanced troubleshooting, provides thorough assessment on technical issues and decisions, and evaluate external assistance when necessary
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, operation, safety and quality controls policies and procedures
Demonstrates knowledge of techniques, principles, and instruments and their interrelationships as well as physiological conditions affecting test results
Analyzes all test and quality controls and reviews for errors, inconsistencies and deviations prior to reporting results
Initiates, documents, troubleshoot to ensure remedial actions are taken whenever test systems/QA deviate from established performance specifications
Communicates information or problems with laboratory team and leadership in a respectful and proactive manner
Contributes in maintaining continual compliance with policies, procedures and record keeping necessary to meet standards of accrediting or regulatory agencies
Participates in the quality management program including quality control review, annual procedure review, compliance requirements, quality improvement, and implementation of the training and competency program
Participate in educational and training activities to acquire new skills, maintain technical relevance and improve proficiency
Provides patient-focused care in a clinical setting through the accurate performance of routine and complex tests through the pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytic stages
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
Effectively communicates all pertinent information with appropriate laboratory staff and lab leadership
Acts in a consistently professional manner while conducting all duties and responsibilities
Ability to recognize strengths and weaknesses in themselves and others, can adapt to change, and remain professional in stressful situations