Cytogenetic Technologist II

Job Summary:

Under the technical lead of a licensed Senior Cytogenetic Technologist (CLIA General Supervisor) and the administrative supervision of the Genetics Lab Administrative Director , the Cytogenetics Technologist II shall perform all routine and some specialized cytogenetic procedures and techniques used for the specimen preparation, culture, harvest, banding/staining, microscopic analysis of human chromosomes from biological tissue samples, digital photography, karyotyping, Molecular Cytogenetic Techniques. All high complexity testing and tasks shall be performed in accordance with established departmental procedure and quality control/documentation protocols.

Essential Responsibilities:

Prepare biological tissue samples (i.e., amniotic fluid, CVS, tissue, bone marrow, blood) for in-vitro growth and cell culturing. Observe, evaluate and take appropriate steps to maintain growth of in-vitro cell cultures. Select and harvest in-vitro cells from cultures and prepare slides. Perform chromosome banding and staining. Perform microscopic analysis and digital photography of chromosome metaphase spreads. Identify individual chromosomes and prepare chromosome karyotypes; identify chromosome normality/abnormality and/or variants and define using current ISCN nomenclature. Perform Molecular/Cytogenetic Techniques within the scope of their State License. Document appropriate records on each case; maintain appropriate and accurate quality control documentation in accordance with laboratory protocols. Train personnel in various work tasks as assigned. Perform other related duties as qualified, trained and assigned. Position requires interaction with the Molecular laboratory staff on a regular basis regarding specimens, cultures and other related matters. Genetic technology is at the forefront of scientific and technological development and change. Laboratory tests, techniques and procedures will require periodic change. Therefore duties and responsibilities will be subject to change.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This job has no supervisory responsibilities. Grade 845

Qualifications:

Basic Qualifications:

Experience Must have a minimum of 12 months (18 months preferred) in a CLIA certified Clinical Cytogenetic Laboratory as a Cytogenetic Technologist. Education Bachelors Degree in biological or clinical laboratory science or field related to genetics from a US-accredited college or university or equivalent. License, Certification, Registration Clinical Laboratory Scientist License (California) OR Clinical Cytogeneticist Scientist License (California) required at hire

Additional Requirements:

Must have experience performing routine high complexity testing in a Clinical Cytogenetic Laboratory. Ability to read and comprehend protocols, instructions, short correspondence, and memos, and communicate as the job requires. Must be willing to work in a Labor Management Partnership environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

Certification by ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology), or equivalent certifying body approved by CA State in Clinical Cytogenetics preferred, but not required.