Cytogenetic Technologist

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Proficiently and independently performs chromosome analysis, Fluorescent in situ Hybridization (FISH) analysis, and Microarray analysis in accordance with the department’s procedure manual and proper ISCN nomenclature.
• Performs Peripheral Blood, Bone Marrow, Amniotic Fluid, Chorionic Villus, Products of Conception, and Tumor set up, maintenance, and harvesting. Performs routine and special stain banding procedures.
• Performs sample preparation and appropriate probe application for FISH analysis.
• Proficiently and independently performs SNP Microarray procedure. Performs DNA extraction and wet lab Microarray procedures including but not limited to digestion, ligation, PCR, quantitation, fragmentation, labeling, and hybridization. Proficiently operates Spectrophotometer, scanner, Fluidics Station and System Data Transfer Server.
• Performs, monitors, and evaluates quality control, applies the principles of quality control when reporting tests. Records, reports, and monitors all QC data in the proper manner to include log books and/or worksheets. Takes appropriate corrective action when necessary and documents action(s) taken. Follows established Laboratory safety procedure in accordance with those of regulatory bodies including but not limited to OSHA, FDA, EPA, NRC. Participates in department proficiency testing.
• Correlates, reviews and documents the requisition or clinical orders with the testing procedure. Provides a preliminary diagnosis directly to the ordering provider on STAT cases which may require urgent decisions by an attending physician.
• Correlates various clinical laboratory test results, applies these results to clinical conditions and recognizes accepted normal ranges. Initiates follow-up procedures when patient results are outside normal range according to departmental policy. Identification and resolution of technical problems related to laboratory methodology, instrumentation, and procedures under direction of Laboratory Management.
• Maintains adequate inventory of supplies as required by the department.
• Participates in development and education.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• License/Registration/Certification Required: CG(ASCP)
• Education Required: Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Technology, Biology, or related science field.
• Experience Required: Typically requires 5 years of experience in chromosome analysis of all tissue types, analysis of Microarray and/or FISH in the Cytogenetic laboratory. Must also be competent in one or more areas of the wet lab.
  
  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

• 5 years of experience with Cytogenetics laboratory equipment and methodologies. Clinical internships may be applied toward experience.
• Competence in chromosome analysis of all tissue types in the Cytogenetics laboratory. Competence in analysis of Microarray and/ or FISH. Competence in one or more areas of the wet lab. Basic computer literacy
• Ability to consistently handle multi-tasking and meet established timeframes. Ability to work well in stressful situations, maintaining professional composure at all times.
• Ability to articulate knowledge of topics under discussion. Ability to effectively and appropriately communicate in all situations. Ability to balance research findings with ACL technical limitations.
• Ability to effectively implement new procedures and technologies. Ability to routinely safeguard and handle irretrievable specimen types (i.e. products of conception, amniotic fluids, chorionic villi samples, placentas, bone marrow, tumors, etc.) Able to appropriately handle hazardous chemicals, infectious biological specimens, and sharps.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

• Hazardous chemical exposure and contact with infectious biological specimens and sharps are experienced on a daily basis.
• Position requires ability to consistently handle multi-tasking, meet established timeframes, and recognize assignments that may be delegated.
• Ability to work well in stressful situations, always maintaining professional composure.
• Some instrumentation and work counter are higher than table height. Ability to lift (medium -- up to 20 to 50 pounds occasionally and/or 10-25 pounds frequently and/or up to 10 pounds constantly) and use keyboard and microscopy extensively may be required, dependent upon job and shift assignment.
• Fast paced environment with established time constraints.
• Ability to routinely safeguard and handle irretrievable specimen types (i.e. products of conception, amniotic fluids, chorionic villi samples, placentas, bone marrow, tumors, etc.)

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.