Senior Cytogenetics Technologist, Cytogenetics Department - Registry

Join us at the forefront, at UChicago Medicine, as a Senior Cytogenetics Technologist in the Cytogenetics Lab.  In this role as a Senior Cytogenetics Technologist, you will perform esoteric testing to support Cancer, Ob/Gyn and Pediatrics service lines.  You will perform complex genetic analysis to identify inherited and somatic causes of disease and determine treatment modalities for key time-dependent diagnostic and treatment decisions. You will works collaboratively with colleagues, participate in process improvement projects, and train Cytogenetic students and junior personnel.

Job Summary

Performs clinical cytogenetics assays using a wide range of methodologies and instrumentation according to laboratory policies and procedures and in accordance with all regulatory agency requirements. Applies clinical knowledge and technical expertise to achieve accurate test results in a timely manner to support quality patient outcomes. Serves as the primary specialist in a defined subspecialty area and is responsible for the development and evaluation of new methodologies and instrumentation. Provides continued support for these new procedures after implementation into routine diagnostic practice. Provides specialized technical leadership to other staff as assigned by the chief technologist or designee.

Essential Job Functions 

• Receives specimens submitted to laboratory and evaluates for acceptability.
• Sets up cultures from various specimen types.
• Harvests cultures and prepares slides for analysis following established procedures to assure patient safety and high quality results.
• Performs microarray as assigned.
• Performs microscopic chromosome and FISH analysis and creates reports.
• Able to identify complex abnormalities and serves as technical expert to others in the Lab.
• Trouble-shoots instrument and assay related problems.
• Reports all test results in the laboratory information system according to all laboratory policies and procedures, within stated turn-around times.
• Serves as a specialist with a defined area of technical expertise in a subspecialty discipline relevant to related area of laboratory science.
• Troubleshoots exceptions and identifies and implements solutions to resolve issues.
• Leads and/or participates in process improvements and other quality functions.
• Assists in establishing and maintaining continual compliance with policies, procedures, and record keeping necessary to meet the standards of accrediting or regulatory agencies.
• Participates in training and annual competency assessments and provides continuing education of laboratory personnel, students, fellows, pathology residents, and others.
• Communicates any pertinent information or problems with laboratory staff and supervisors in a respectful and proactive manner.
• Attends training sessions, seminars and workshops to maintain and enhance necessary clinical laboratory science skills.
• Assists in training new employees, students, pathology residents, fellows, and others.

Required Qualifications 

• Meet CLIA 88 personnel qualification for high complexity testing

• Bachelor’s degree in clinical laboratory science, molecular biology or related field from an accredited college or university required.

• At least three years of pertinent laboratory (clinical or research) experience preferred in performing cytogenetics testing using multiple techniques including cell culture and harvest, FISH, and G-banded chromosome analysis.

• Knowledge and ability to use laboratory/hospital information systems, automated, and conventional laboratory equipment

Preferred Qualifications 

• Certification or eligibility as medical technologist, (MT) or molecular biology (MB) is preferred.

Position Details 

• Job Type/FTE: Registry  (.10)
• Shift:  Days, 4.0 Hours
• Unit/Department: Cytogenetics Lab
• CBA Code:  Non-Union

We’ve been at the forefront of medicine since 1899. We provide superior healthcare with compassion, always mindful that each patient is a person, an individual. To accomplish this, we need employees with passion, talent and commitment… with patients and with each other. We’re in this together: working to advance medical innovation, serve the health needs of the community, and move our collective knowledge forward. If you’d like to add enriching human life to your profile, UChicago Medicine is for you. Here at the forefront, we’re doing work that really matters. Join us. Bring your passion.

UChicago Medicine is growing; discover how you can be a part of this pursuit of excellence at: UChicago Medicine Career Opportunities

UChicago Medicine is an equal opportunity employer.  We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, civil union status, parental status, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status and other legally protected characteristics.

As a condition of employment, all employees are required to complete a pre-employment physical, background check, drug screening, and comply with the flu vaccination requirements prior to hire. Medical and religious exemptions will be considered for flu vaccination consistent with applicable law.

Compensation & Benefits Overview

UChicago Medicine is committed to transparency in compensation and benefits.  The pay range provided reflects the anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position.

The pay range is based on a full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) and is reflective of current market data, reviewed on an annual basis. Compensation offered at the time of hire will vary based on candidate qualifications and experience and organizational considerations, such as internal equity. Pay ranges for employees subject to Collective Bargaining Agreements are negotiated by the medical center and their respective union.

Review the full complement of benefit options for eligible roles at Benefits - UChicago Medicine.