Cytopreparatory Technician

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 11am - 7:30pm with weekends as needed

Essential Job functions:

• Accessions gynecologic and non-gynecologic specimens for microscopic evaluation by opening, verifying patient identity and checking sample integrity; labels specimens properly and aliquots samples as required.

• Prepares cytology specimens for analysis according to established procedures for each specimen type, including liquid based pap tests (Surepaths), urine, fine needle aspirations, body fluids and smears (ThinPrep Processing);

• Renders gross descriptions of all non-gynecologic specimens; creates cell blocks as deemed fit or requested.

• Maintains specimen identification and integrity through all processes.

• Distributes cases to Cytotechnologists; creates remakes of cases as requested. Perform daily and weekly maintenance and log sheets on equipment, including changing the stainer, cleaning of equipment, disinfecting surfaces as well as recording, monitoring, and calibrating temperatures .

• Operates all instruments/equipment according to accepted written procedures.

• Troubleshoots equipment failures and contacts appropriate technical services as necessary.

• Ensures inventory is complete and appropriate supplies are ordered.

• Disposes biohazard and chemical waste appropriately.

• Performs all other processing tech duties as assigned.

General Job functions:

• Accurately collects gyn specimens if necessary and non-GYN cytology specimens in Orchard LIS and or Vital Axis

• Routes specimens to appropriate reference lab for processing when applicable.

• Evaluates specimens and test orders for acceptability and determines rejections with supervisor according to established protocol.

• Operates all instruments/equipment according to accepted written procedures. (BD: Focal Point, Multiprocessor, SlidePrep; Hologic: Thin Prep; centrifuge and (cytocentrifuge or PrepMate if needed or Cytospin 3 and Cytospin 4)

• Properly stores specimens within the lab for future testing as required.

• Meets acceptable turnaround time and/or productivity standards for each section rotation.

• Ensures that records are accurate, complete, legible and appropriately filed and stored.

• Maintains a clean, neat and orderly workplace including general laboratory equipment (copiers, faxes, printers, refrigerators) as well as job specific instruments (Focal Point, Multiprocessor, SlidePrep, Thin Prep, centrifuge and (cytocentrifuge or PrepMate if needed)

• Demonstrates proficiency in the use of the laboratory information system and its applications to all aspects of the job.

• Documents all routine and non-routine maintenance according to SOP.

• Records equipment temperatures according to SOP.

• Files slides.

• Answer department telephones; triage calls.

Physical Job Requirements: 

• Physical job requirements include physical mobility, which includes movement from place to place on the job, taking distance and speed into account. Endurance is expected with prolonged standing/bending, and possibly walking. Physical strength to lift at least 25 lbs for supplies.

• Concentration/ intensity, which includes prolonged mental effort with limited opportunity for breaks. The position requires multi-tasking, organizing and priority setting.

• Endurance (e.g. continuous typing, prolonged standing/bending, walking lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling) Work requires sitting, standing, and / or walking for periods of up to eight hours.

• Dexterity of hands and fingers

• The normal performance of duties may require lifting and carrying objects: Objects 1 to 10 pounds.

Environmental Risks:

• Exposure to infectious biohazards, blood, body fluids.

• Exposure to hazardous chemicals and fumes.

• Sharps and Latex hazards.

Blood-borne Pathogen:

• Exposure to infectious hazards, blood, and other body fluids.

• Contact with patient specimens is possible.

• Unplanned or unexpected exposure.

Education, Certification, Computer and Training Requirements:

• Associates degree required. Health Sciences degree (AA/AS, BA/BS), preferred.

• 1-2 years’ experience in a laboratory setting and understanding of laboratory equipment. 2-4 years’ experience related work experience preferred.

• Ability to communicate in English, both orally and in writing, required.

• Moderate-High level Computer skills required.

• Standard Office Equipment (Phone, Fax, Copy Machine, Scanner, Email/Voice Mail).

• Standard Office Technology in a Window based environment.

• Laboratory Information Systems (LIS)

• Ability to communicate in English, both orally and in writing required.

• Possible exposure to infectious specimens, communicable diseases, toxic substances, and other conditions common to a laboratory environment.