Job Description

Cytotechnologist

As a Cytotechnologist, work involves the prevention and detection of disease within the laboratory specialty of cytopathology. Cytotechnologists are solely responsible for reporting the microscopic interpretation of normal Pap smear tests used to detect cervical cancer; providing preliminary interpretation of specimens from other body sites; and collaborating with pathologists to diagnose benign and infectious processes, precancerous lesions, and malignant diseases. Cytotechnologist duties consist of but are not limited to the following:

• Performs and monitors processes such as smear preparation, slide fixation, cell block preparation, monolayer filtration processing, and staining.
• Determines specimen adequacy using complex specialized testing methods or techniques during Endoscopic Ultrasound, Endobronchial Ultrasound, and other Fine Needle Aspiration procedures.
• Troubleshoot and take corrective action with smear preparation, slide fixation, cell block preparation, monolayer filtration processing, and staining that show discrepancies.
• Monitor the overall laboratory quality management and quality control program, and initiate corrective action as needed.
• Evaluate all cytology preparations by light microscopy for the presence or absence of cellular patterns, presence of micro-organisms, inflammatory reactions, endocrinopathies, benign changes, pre-malignant changes, neoplasia, and cellular responses to therapeutic agents.
• Issue and verify the final diagnosis for gynecologic specimens interpreted to be negative.
• Prepare all specimens for cytodiagnostic and immunochemistry testing, as well as filtration methods, preparation, fixation, and staining of slides.
• Ensure compliance with the standards of regulatory agencies, such as The Joint Commission (TJC), College of American Pathologists (CAP), Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA), and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
• Research, test, validate, and implement new procedures and equipment.
• Write and establish new processes or procedures.

Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Telework: Not Available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position: Not applicable.

Functional Statement #: 21978F

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: May be eligible for highly qualified candidates.

EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact VHA.ELRSProgramSupport@va.gov, the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

PCS Appraised Value Offer (AVO): Not Authorized

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