Cytogen Technologist II

Overview

Emory Medical Laboratory's mission is to TRANSFORM HEALTH AND HEALING by providing high quality, cost-effective, innovative laboratory services which enhance patient health.

Emory Medical Laboratory supports the EMORY HEALTHCARE missions of clinical care, education, and research by demonstrating the core values of:

• EXCELLENCE: in technology and consultative services,
• CARING: by staff and faculty for those we serve, and
• INTEGRITY: in our interactions with customers, colleagues, and ourselves.

Description

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• Under general supervision performs cell culture and harvest, computer-assisted analysis of chromosomes for detection of abnormalities, and prepares karyotypes.
• Adheres to laboratory policies for safety, conduct and performance. Performs other lab- related duties as required.. Performs related responsibilities as required.
• Assists in maintaining an adequate stock of commonly used supplies. Works with manager to formulate plan for professional development.
• Attends educational in-services as appropriate. Records pertinent laboratory data on the appropriate computer form to ensure accurate and complete documentation of laboratory findings.
• Follows biosafety precautions for the handling of fresh body fluids. Follows principles of sterile technique in carrying out daily responsibilities including the proper cleaning and sterilization of work surfaces, equipment, and instruments. Initiates, maintains, and harvests cell cultures of human tissue for genetic testing.
• Select and analyze banded metaphase spreads using the automated capture system or under the microscope for numerical and structural abnormalities.
• Analyzes FISH interphases cells and reports results. Complies with quality control policies and procedures to ensure that all aspects of laboratory operation are performed in accordance with accepted standards and applicable laws for clinical laboratories.
• Prepares reagents, stains, and media in accordance with laboratory protocol. Performs staining procedures for routine and specialized analysis.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in biology or related field AND completion of a NAACLS accredited cytogenetics program within the last 5 years.
• OR bachelors degree AND one year relevant experience within last 3 years OR masters degree in Genetics or Molecular Biology AND 9 months relevant work experience within the last 3 years.
• Certified as a Cytogenetic Technologist by the ASCP and one year experience OR 5 years previous experience in cytogenetics lab.
• Education Exception: Bachelors degree may be waived for a Cytogenetics Technologist who was hired prior to 1995 with documented training and experience according to CLIA Regulations.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

(Medium): 20-50 lbs; 0-33% of the work day (occasionally); 11-25 lbs, 34-66% of the workday (frequently); 01-10 lbs, 67-100% of the workday (constantly); Lifting 50 lbs max; Carrying of objects up to 25 lbs; Occasional to frequent standing & walking, Occasional sitting, Close eye work (computers, typing, reading, writing), Physical demands may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:

Factors affecting environment conditions may vary depending on the assigned work area and tasks. Environmental exposures include, but are not limited to: Blood-borne pathogen exposure Bio-hazardous waste Chemicals/gases/fumes/vapors Communicable diseases Electrical shock , Floor Surfaces, Hot/Cold Temperatures, Indoor/Outdoor conditions, Latex, Lighting, Patient care/handling injuries, Radiation , Shift work, Travel may be required. Use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, environmental conditions may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.