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QP
QDx Pathology Services
Lead Molecular Technologist
Career Insights for Cytogenetic Technologist / Cytotechnologist
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Based on New Jersey data
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What they do
A Cytogenetic Technologist or Cytotechnologist works in a medical laboratory and uses microscopes to examine cells for signs of abnormalities that could indicate cancerous growth.
$76,053 / year median in New Jersey
+15% projected growth
Job Description
Position Summary This position will be responsible for performing complex molecular testing and results analysis according to established standard operating procedures and protocols. The Clinical Lab Team Leader troubleshoots assays, participates in training of other technologists, and ensures that workflow is maintained and directs staff as needed. Working Relationships 1.
Reports To:
Department Supervisor/Manager 2.Directly Supervises:
Not Applicable 3.Indirectly Supervises:
Not Applicable 4.Type of Supervision Received:
Minimal 5.Internal Relationships:
Moderate 6.External Relationships:
Moderate Essential Functions- Direct/manage daily workflow
- Perform complex molecular-based procedures with a high degree of quality and in accordance to established protocols
- Maintain complete documentation
- Alert supervisor immediately to any concerns/questions regarding sample and assay quality or integrity
- Ensure that all specimens are tested and repeated in a timely and accurate manner
- Mentor other technologists by demonstrating a strong work ethic, providing constructive criticism, and responding to questions
- Participate in troubleshooting assay and equipment issues.
- Review assay packet documentation for content and accuracy
- Identify problems and implement appropriate corrective actions/solutions.
- Participate in verification and validation studies for process improvements, new equipment, and new technology transfer
- Take on additional projects and tasks at the request of the supervisor
- Evaluates specimens received by the department and organize workflow to provide optimum efficiency of testing and turnaround time of results.
- Evaluates the acceptability criteria for each specimen and checks for correct labeling, specimen container and source.
- Extracts, denatures and purifies DNA from assorted specimen types.
- Performs PCR and hybridization.
- Evaluates results to determine interference, inhibition, or other problems that arise during extraction or amplification of DNA.
- Performs quality control, validation, and other quality activities to verify performance of clinical assays.
- Maintains equipment by performing assigned maintenance activities and troubleshoot unexpected problems with equipment.
- Evaluates and maintains inventory of supplies and reagents.
- Operate complex equipment and computer programs related to equipment and LIS system.
- Understands the importance of and follows the procedures for appropriate specimen handling and disposal.
- Understands and follows all the laboratory safety procedures and use of personal protective wear.
- Maintains records of test results and archives of data.
- Maintains a neat and clean work environment.
- Performs proficiency testing to maintain compliance with regulatory agencies.
- Assists department in writing and maintaining standard operating procedures for clinical assays. Document knowledge by reviewing and signing relevant SOPs annually.
- Evaluates pending sheets or add-on forms to determine if testing is complete for tests performed in the department.
- A working knowledge of reagent stability and storage.
- Ensures all reagents display the received date, open date and expiration date. Open expiration dates are written on reagent containers, if applicable.
- Maintains quality results by running standards and controls, verifying equipment function through routine equipment maintenance and advanced trouble shooting; calibrating equipment utilizing approved testing procedures; monitoring quality control measures and protocols. Informs supervisor or manager of problems that might affect or delay result reporting.
- Ability to understand and use the Laboratory Information System to retrieve pending logs.
- Regularly checks and records temperatures of incubators, refrigerators, room temperature and humidity. Informs supervisor if corrective action is needed.
- Keeps testing area, instruments, and department clean.
- Performs other job-related functions as requested by the laboratory manager.
- Has an awareness of the factors that influence test results and the knowledge to avoid it.
- Informs the Molecular Manager to finalize/accept patient results when testing is complete.