Cytogenetic Technologist

University of Colorado; Aurora (CO); On-site; USD 69,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Pathology, seeks a Cytogenetic Technologist (Healthcare Intermediate to Senior Professional) to perform specimen processing for oncology chromosome analysis, maintain cell cultures, and prepare high-quality metaphase slides. Occasional FISH and CMA testing support may be required.

The role supports quality control, operates laboratory instruments, and participates in validation and optimization of cytogenomic testing methods, with

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biological science and at least 1 year of cytogenetics experience.
• ASCP – Clinical Cytogenetics (CG) eligible.
• At least 2 years of cytogenetics experience, and ASCP CG certification or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Performs specimen processing for oncology chromosome analysis, including initiation and harvest of cell cultures and preparation of metaphase slides.
• May perform FISH and CMA testing, including DNA extraction to support operations.
• Selects processing methods to produce high-quality cytogenetic and molecular preparations.
• Participates in quality control, QA, troubleshooting, and communicating issues to leadership.
• Maintains proficiency with sterile technique, instrumentation, LIS, and safe handling of biohazards.

Skills

Cytogenetics

Cell culture

FISH

CMA

Education

Bachelor's degree in biological sciences

Job description

Cytogenetic Technologist

Description

University of Colorado Anschutz

Department of Pathology

Cytogenetic Technologist (Healthcare Intermediate to Senior Professional)

Position #00818316 – Requisition #40768

Job Summary

Key Responsibilities

• Performs specimen processing for oncology chromosome analysis as the primary area of responsibility, including initiation, maintenance, and harvest of cell cultures and preparation of high-quality metaphase chromosome slides. May also perform specimen processing for fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and chromosomal microarray (CMA) testing, including DNA extraction, as needed to support laboratory operations.
• Selects and performs appropriate specimen processing methodologies and techniques to produce high-quality cytogenetic and molecular preparations for clinical testing that meet established laboratory quality standards.
• Contributes to quality control, quality assurance, process improvement, and troubleshooting activities to maintain reliable laboratory operations. Recognizes and communicates processing errors, equipment malfunctions, or other issues affecting testing quality or workflow to senior technologists or laboratory leadership.
• Maintains proficiency in sterile technique, cell culture, DNA extraction, operation and maintenance of laboratory instrumentation, laboratory information systems, and the safe handling and disposal of biohazardous materials and hazardous chemicals in accordance with laboratory, institutional, and regulatory requirements.
• Participates in the validation, implementation, and optimization of new cytogenomic testing methodologies and laboratory procedures, as assigned.

Case analysis, summary and standardized interpretations – 25%

• Performs oncology chromosome analysis and may also participate in constitutional chromosome analysis, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) scoring, and chromosomal microarray analysis to support clinical diagnostic testing.
• Prepares high-quality digitized images of karyotypes and FISH specimens using computerized imaging systems and summarizes case findings by correlating chromosome, FISH, and chromosomal microarray findings.
• Prepares standardized case interpretations for reviewers and Laboratory Directors and participates in proficiency testing and other regulatory compliance activities required by accrediting agencies, including the College of American Pathologists (CAP).
• May review completed case analyses for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to laboratory standards prior to Laboratory Director review, as appropriate for the position level.
• May preview test requests and specimens to ensure appropriate test selection and support laboratory workflow and case prioritization.

Wet Lab Maintenance and Inventory Control – 20%

• Prepares laboratory reagents and media, as needed, and monitors laboratory equipment quality control parameters to support reliable and compliant testing.
• Performs routine cleaning and preventive maintenance of laboratory equipment, disposes of hazardous waste in accordance with CGL and CU Anschutz policies and protocols, and maintains laboratory records and materials, including filing completed case slides.
• Maintains clean, organized, and well-stocked work areas; participates in inventory management; and may be authorized to purchase laboratory supplies using a CU procurement card and/or CU Marketplace in accordance with CU policies.
• Receives, labels, stores, and organizes laboratory supplies and independently manages laboratory resources to support efficient daily operations.

Participates in orientation and training – 5%

• Assists with the orientation and training of new employees, genetics students, residents, fellows, and other healthcare professionals in accessioning, wet laboratory processing, wet laboratory maintenance, inventory control, and established laboratory procedures to promote competency, consistency, and compliance with laboratory standards.
• Provides guidance and technical support to less experienced staff, as appropriate for the position level.

Work Location

Onsite

Why Join Us

Why work for the University?

• Medical: Multiple plan options
• Dental: Multiple plan options
• Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
• Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay
• Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year
• Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
• Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
• Holiday Days: 15/year
• Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
• ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biological science, nutrition, nursing, health, human services, psychology, counseling, social work, or a directly related field from an accredited institution and at least 1 year of cytogenetics experience
• American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) – Clinical Cytogenetics (CG) eligible
• Bachelor’s degree in biological science, nutrition, nursing, health, human services, psychology, counseling, social work, or a directly related field from an accredited institution.
• At least 2 years of cytogenetics experience, and ASCP Clinical Cytogenetics (CG) certification or equivalent qualification consistent with laboratory requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a clinical cytogenetics laboratory.
• Experience with cell culture techniques.
• Experience processing and analyzing specimens for cancer chromosome analysis, chromosomal microarray, and/or fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) testing.
• Experience reviewing cytogenomic testing results.
• Experience supporting laboratory workflow and/or mentoring or training laboratory staff.

Conditions of Employment

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship. We are unable to provide work visa sponsorship or employment authorization for this position now or in the future.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution.
• Outstanding customer service skills.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple laboratory workflows in a high complexity clinical environment
• Knowledge of chromosome analysis, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and chromosomal microarray technologies and their clinical applications.
• Knowledge of the operation and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment and familiarity with medical and laboratory terminology.
• Proficiency with laboratory information systems and standard computer applications, including database, word processing, and spreadsheet software.
• Knowledge of HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules and College of American Pathologists (CAP) laboratory accreditation standards.
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and protect sensitive patient information in accordance with applicable policies and regulations.
• Demonstrated commitment to quality, accuracy, customer service, and attention to detail.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple responsibilities while meeting established deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders across the institution.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment, adapt to changing priorities, and exercise sound judgment when seeking or providing assistance or guidance.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

The University of Colorado does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, pregnancy, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, political affiliation, or political philosophy. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

Anticipated Pay Range

• Intermediate: $68,971 to $92,421
• Senior: $74,563 to $99,915

Screening of Applications Begins

August 30, 2026.

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as:The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position may be eligible for overtime compensation, depending on the level.Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.Total Compensation Calculator https://apptrkr.com/get_redirect.php?id=9754999&targetURL=http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

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The University of Colorado Anschutz is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.