Lead Cytologist, Full Time Days, ACL

Under supervision of a CLIA General Supervisor, the Lead Cytologist performs specimen processing, CLIA high/moderate complexity testing, and reports accurate results. Responsibilities include following procedures, troubleshooting, maintaining quality control, ensuring regulatory compliance, and consulting with various teams to support patient care and workflow efficiency.

Specimen Processing and Accessioning:

Evaluates specimens and test orders for acceptability and accepts or rejects according to established guidelines.

Productivity:

Maintains productivity standards established by department leadership and Lab Director. In adherence with regulations, documents number and types of cases screened daily as well as screening time.

Specimen Testing:

Follows approved standard operating procedures.

Result Reporting:

Exhibits technical judgment by correlating test results with diagnosis and previous results as applicable. Reviews final reports for accuracy.

Computer Skills:

Demonstrates proficiency in the use of HIS and LIS software systems in all job-related functions.

Equipment Operation:

Operates and maintains all technical equipment according to approved standard operating procedures.

Verification &Validation:

Performs verification and validation of laboratory assays and instrumentation to ensure accuracy, reliability, and compliance with regulatory standards prior to clinical implementation.

Quality Control:

Follows quality control policies, documents all related activities, and maintains records of instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance. Analyzes, reviews results, monitors compliance with the Quality Control Plan standard operating procedures.

Proficiency Testing:

Assist with proficiency testing distribution and submission, ensuring samples are treated the same as patient samples. Participate in proficiency testing investigations.

Team Member Management:

Effectively leads and coaches laboratory team members by fostering a collaborative work environment, ensuring competency through training and education. Communicates effectively through the adherence of the PRIDE (Purpose, Respect, Innovation, Diversity & Inclusion, Extraordinary C are) values. Provides feedback on performance management. May assist with team members scheduling.

Inventory Management:

Maintains quantities and reviews expiration dates of all supplies.

Safety:

Demonstrates knowledge and practice of all Atlantic Health and department safety procedures.

Education Requirements:

Must meet the CLIA personnel requirements for High Complexity testing: MD or DO with a current medical license, OR Doctoral degree in clinical laboratory science, chemical, physical or biological science, OR Master's degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory, chemical, physical, or biological science, OR Bachelor's degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory, chemical, physical or biological, OR Associate degree in chemical, physical or biological science or medical laboratory or equivalent education and training Foreign education credentials require US equivalency documentation by an Atlantic Health approved agency. One year of Cytology technical training from a Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation (CAAHEP) accredited school, before September 1, 1992. CT (ASCP)

Experience:

Minimum of 3 years' experience as a Cytotechnologist. Previous experience in leadership is highly preferred. Proficiency in screening gynecologic, non- gynecologic, and FNA specimens.