Clinical Lab Technologist - Cytogenetics

Clinical Laboratory Technologist Cytogenetics

The Clinical Laboratory Technologist Cytogenetics performs high-complexity cytogenetic testing to support the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of patients with hematologic, oncologic, genetic, and other disorders. This position is responsible for processing patient specimens, performing chromosome analysis and related cytogenetic procedures, evaluating results, and ensuring accurate and timely reporting.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in a clinical cytogenetics laboratory, strong analytical skills, and a thorough understanding of laboratory quality, regulatory, and safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and complex cytogenetic testing on clinical specimens, including peripheral blood, bone marrow, tissue, and other specimen types.
• Perform chromosome analysis, karyotyping, and microscopic evaluation of metaphase chromosomes.
• Culture and harvest specimens and prepare high-quality chromosome slides for analysis.
• Identify and characterize numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities.
• Perform and/or assist with FISH testing and other cytogenetic methodologies as required.
• Analyze, document, and accurately record test results according to established laboratory procedures.
• Recognize abnormal or unusual findings and escalate cases for appropriate review.
• Perform quality control, instrument maintenance, calibration, troubleshooting, and corrective actions as required.
• Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with laboratory policies and regulatory standards.
• Follow established procedures for specimen handling, processing, storage, and disposal.
• Participate in proficiency testing, competency assessments, quality assurance, and quality improvement activities.
• Assist with validation or implementation of new procedures, instrumentation, and testing methodologies as needed.
• Maintain compliance with CLIA, CAP, New York State, OSHA, and other applicable regulatory requirements.
• Work collaboratively with laboratory leadership, technologists, pathologists, and other healthcare professionals.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient laboratory environment.

Requirements / Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Cytogenetics, Biology, or a related biological/chemical science that meets New York State requirements for clinical laboratory practice.
• Current New York State Clinical Laboratory Technologist license required.
• Previous experience working in a clinical cytogenetics laboratory strongly preferred.
• Hands-on experience with chromosome analysis and karyotyping preferred.
• Experience with specimen culture, harvesting, slide preparation, banding techniques, and microscopic chromosome analysis preferred.
• Experience with FISH is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with cytogenetic nomenclature and interpretation of chromosomal abnormalities.
• ASCP certification, including CG(ASCP), MLS(ASCP), or other applicable certification, preferred where appropriate.
• Knowledge of CAP, CLIA, NYS regulatory requirements, quality control, and laboratory safety practices.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and documentation skills.
• Ability to accurately perform high-complexity testing while maintaining attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a multidisciplinary laboratory team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.