Anatomic Pathology Technician, HMC Cytology Lab

University of Washington Medical Center; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 43,000 - 61,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Public transit pass

Tuition exemption

Holidays

Job summary

Harborview Medical Center, part of UW Medicine, seeks an Anatomic Pathology Technician for the Cytology Team in Seattle. You will process and accession cytology specimens, prepare gynecologic and non-gynecologic slides, and support pathologists, residents and students in a high-volume lab environment.

The role requires cytology certification within two years or equivalent experience, with responsibilities spanning slide prep, staining, accessioning, and specimen archiving.

Qualifications

• Certified, or certified within two years, at the Technician level by a nationally recognized certifying agency (ASCP, ASCLS or MSMA).
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications.

Responsibilities

• Receive and accession cytology specimens in Epic Beaker.
• Prepare slides with ThinPrep and stain using Pap method.
• Process cytology and non-gynecological specimens with appropriate slide prep.
• Archive specimens and manage disposal per procedures.
• Maintain equipment and workspace; check reagents and stock.
• Assist in fine needle aspiration procedures and staining.
• Maintain Pap staining setup and troubleshoot procedures.
• Answer inquiries about specimen requirements and status.

Skills

Cytology processing

Specimen accession

Slide preparation

Papanicolaou staining

Fine needle aspiration assistance

Education

Cytology technician certification

Tools

Epic Beaker

ThinPrep machine

Papanicolaou staining setup

Job description

Job Description

The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Seattle, WA has a fantastic opportunity for an Anatomic Pathology Technician with the Cytology Team at Harborview Medical Center.

Under general supervision, the Anatomic Pathology Technician is responsible for performing laboratory specimen processing, which consists of receiving, identifying, sorting, preparing and distributing cytology specimens and other laboratory work in support of technologists, faculty, and students.

Who we’re looking for:

Work schedule:

• 100% FTE
• Monday - Friday
• 8:30 - 5pm

What you’ll contribute:

• Receive and accession cytology specimens – accurately enter in specimen into Epic Beaker laboratory system, select correct specimen codes and lab testing orders, inspect specimens for required elements, identify ancillary test requests and forward to appropriate department, resolve specimen issues or missing testing information.
• Perform cytology gynecological processing – properly label and prepare slides using ThinPrep machine, stain slides using Papanicolaou regressive staining method, reprocess unsatisfactory Pap samples using glacial acetic acid wash method, coverslip slides without bubbles or excess mounting medium, distribute slides.
• Perform cytology non-gynecological processing – process specimens including cerebral spinal fluids, urines, brushings, fine needle aspirations, body cavity fluids, anal paps. Identify appropriate slide preparation technique based on specimen type. Prepare adequate cell blocks for histology processing.
• Archive specimens – properly archive specimens according to department procedures, discard specimens according to department defined schedule, retrieve archived specimens for reprocessing or upon request.
• Equipment and laboratory workspace maintenance – perform routine maintenance and cleaning or laboratory equipment and workspace, decontaminate and clean glassware and other lab instruments, replenish supplies from stock, check reagents for expiration dates, assist in performing inventory and order laboratory supplies, fulfill requests for specimen collection supplies and prepare shipments to clinics.
• Assist in fine needle aspiration procedures – provide assistance to cytopathology residents and fellows, prepare smeared slides and perform Diff-Quik staining.
• Daily and weekly maintenance of Papanicolaou staining setup – prepares reagents according to laboratory standard operating procedures, properly labels reagents when prepared or opened, filter and change staining setup in accordance with laboratory operating procedures.
• Respond to inquiries concerning cytology specimens – answers questions about specimen requirements, turn-around-time, and case status. Triages phone calls to other departments or staff when necessary.
• Perform related duties as required.

What you’ll need:

• Certified, or certified within two (2) years from the date of hire, at the Technician level by a nationally recognized certifying agency such as the American Society of Clinical Pathologists, the American Society of Clinical Laboratory Scientists or the Microscopy Society of America.
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

What we offer:

• Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
• State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities.
• Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region.
• Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
• Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U.
• And much more!

About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology:

A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, we serve labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally.

Please visit our website to learn more about our department.

About UW Medicine:

UW Medicine is Washington’s only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine’s mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow’s physicians, scientists and other health professionals.

All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that include Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$30.89 hourly

Pay Range Maximum:

$44.25 hourly

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

SEIU Local 925 Healthcare Prof/Lab Tech

About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [e-mail].

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.