Cytogenetic Technologist

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Aurora (CO); On-site; USD 69,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, CO seeks a Cytogenetic Technologist at the intermediate to senior level for the Colorado Genetics Laboratory. The role involves high-level cytogenomic testing, case review, and ensuring testing aligns with clinical indications.

Responsibilities include maintaining quality control, supporting new methods, and contributing to efficient laboratory operations in a collaborative environment. Onsite work in Aurora is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or a directly related field.
• ASCP Clinical Cytogenetics (CG) eligible or CG certification as required by level.

Responsibilities

• Performs complex clinical cytogenomic testing including chromosome analysis, FISH, and CMA.
• Reviews cases for accuracy and interpretation prior to Laboratory Director review.

Job description

University of Colorado Anschutz

Department of Pathology

Cytogenetic Technologist (Healthcare Intermediate to SeniorProfessional)

Position #00818316 – Requisition # 40768

Job Summary:

The Colorado Genetics Laboratory (CGL), Department of Pathology, isseeking a full-time (1.0 FTE) technologist at the intermediate orsenior level to join our clinical cytogenetics team. This positionperforms complex clinical cytogenomic testing utilizing standardand high-resolution chromosome analysis, fluorescence insitu hybridization (FISH) analysis, and chromosomal microarrayanalysis. Responsibilities also include specimen processing forprenatal diagnosis, postnatal constitutional genetic evaluation,and oncology testing to support cancer diagnosis and treatmentmonitoring.

In addition to performing testing, the technologist may reviewcases completed by other staff members for accuracy, completeness,and interpretation before Laboratory Director review, asappropriate for the position level. The technologist may alsopreview cases to ensure the requested testing is appropriate forthe clinical indication and specimen received, support laboratoryworkflow and process decisions, and contribute to efficientlaboratory operations.

The technologist participates in quality control and qualityassurance activities, supports the development, validation, andimplementation of new testing methodologies, and supportscontinuous improvement as cytogenomic technologies evolve. Thesuccessful candidate will adhere to established laboratoryprocedures, policies, and regulatory requirements while fostering acollaborative, efficient, and mission-driven work environmentdedicated to providing high-quality patient care.

Key Responsibilities:

Sample Processing and Preparation for Oncology Chromosome Analysis – 50%

• Performs specimen processing for oncology chromosome analysisas the primary area of responsibility, including initiation,maintenance, and harvest of cell cultures and preparation ofhigh-quality metaphase chromosome slides. May also perform specimenprocessing for fluorescence insitu hybridization (FISH) andchromosomal microarray (CMA) testing, including DNA extraction, asneeded to support laboratory operations.
• Selects and performs appropriate specimen processingmethodologies and techniques to produce high-quality cytogeneticand molecular preparations for clinical testing that meetestablished laboratory quality standards.
• Contributes to quality control, quality assurance, processimprovement, and troubleshooting activities to maintain reliablelaboratory operations. Recognizes and communicates processingerrors, equipment malfunctions, or other issues affecting testingquality or workflow to senior technologists or laboratoryleadership.
• Maintains proficiency in sterile technique, cell culture, DNAextraction, operation and maintenance of laboratoryinstrumentation, laboratory information systems, and the safehandling and disposal of biohazardous materials and hazardouschemicals in accordance with laboratory, institutional, andregulatory requirements.
• Participates in the validation, implementation, andoptimization of new cytogenomic testing methodologies andlaboratory procedures, as assigned.

Case analysis, summary and standardized interpretations –25%

• Performs oncology chromosome analysis and may also participatein constitutional chromosome analysis, fluorescence insitu hybridization (FISH) scoring, and chromosomal microarray analysisto support clinical diagnostic testing.
• Prepares high-quality digitized images of karyotypes and FISHspecimens using computerized imaging systems and summarizes casefindings by correlating chromosome, FISH, and chromosomalmicroarray findings.
• Prepares standardized case interpretations for reviewers andLaboratory Directors and participates in proficiency testing andother regulatory compliance activities required by accreditingagencies, including the College ofAmerican Pathologists(CAP).
• May review completed case analyses for accuracy, completeness,and adherence to laboratory standards prior to Laboratory Directorreview, as appropriate for the position level.
• May preview test requests and specimens to ensure appropriatetest selection and support laboratory workflow and caseprioritization.

Wet Lab Maintenance and Inventory Control – 20%

• Prepares laboratory reagents and media, as needed, and monitorslaboratory equipment quality control parameters to support reliableand compliant testing.
• Performs routine cleaning and preventive maintenance oflaboratory equipment, disposes of hazardous waste in accordancewith CGL and CU Anschutz policies and protocols, and maintainslaboratory records and materials, including filing completed caseslides.
• Maintains clean, organized, and well-stocked work areas;participates in inventory management; and may be authorized topurchase laboratory supplies using a CU procurement card and/or CUMarketplace in accordance with CU policies.
• Receives, labels, stores, and organizes laboratory supplies andindependently manages laboratory resources to support efficientdaily operations.

Participates in orientation and training – 5%

• Assists with the orientation and training of new employees,genetics students, residents, fellows, and other healthcareprofessionals in accessioning, wet laboratory processing, wetlaboratory maintenance, inventory control, and establishedlaboratory procedures to promote competency, consistency, andcompliance with laboratory standards.
• Provides guidance and technical support to less experiencedstaff, as appropriate for the position level.

Work Location:

Onsite – this role is expected to work onsite and is located inAurora, CO .

Why Join Us:

Welcome to the Department of Pathology of the University ofColorado, Anschutz Medical Campus. The Department has grownsubstantially in the past 15 years, from 40 to 120 faculty inparallel with the remarkable growth of our hospital-basedaffiliates as well as the city and county of Denver. Our work isvalue driven and focused on scientific investigation, lifelonglearning, and a balance of personal and professional values. Inaddition to a vibrant and highly competitive residency program with25 positions, we offer 9 fellowships and participate in numerousgraduate schools and the MD/PhD program of the CU School ofMedicine.

Why work for the University?

We have AMAZING benefits and offer exceptional amounts of holiday,vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers anexcellent benefits package including:

• Medical: Multiple plan options
• Dental: Multiple plan options
• Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
• Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your grosspay
• 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 allCU campuses
• ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with CU Advantage.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Intermediate Professional:

• Bachelor's degree in biological science, nutrition, nursing,health, human services, psychology, counseling, social work, or adirectly related field from an accredited institution and at least1 year of cytogenetics experience
• American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) – ClinicalCytogenetics (CG) eligible

Senior Professional

• Bachelor's degree in biological science, nutrition, nursing,health, human services, psychology, counseling, social work, or adirectly related field from an accredited institution.
• At least 2 years of cytogenetics experience, and ASCP ClinicalCytogenetics (CG) certification or equivalent qualificationconsistent with laboratory requirements.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time ofhire.

Preferred Qualifications:

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

Conditions of Employment:

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the UnitedStates without requiring sponsorship. We are unable to provide workvisa sponsorship or employment authorization for this position nowor in the future.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing andorally.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective workingrelationships with employees at all levels throughout theinstitution.
• Outstanding customer service skills.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple laboratory workflowsin a high complexity clinical environment
• Knowledge of chromosome analysis, fluorescence insitu hybridization (FISH), and chromosomal microarray technologies andtheir clinical applications.
• Knowledge of the operation and routine maintenance oflaboratory equipment and familiarity with medical and laboratoryterminology.
• Proficiency with laboratory information systems and standardcomputer applications, including database, word processing, andspreadsheet software.
• Knowledge of HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules and College ofAmerican Pathologists (CAP) laboratory accreditationstandards.
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and protectsensitive patient information in accordance with applicablepolicies and regulations.
• Demonstrated commitment to quality, accuracy, customer service,and attention to detail.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multipleresponsibilities while meeting established deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both verballyand in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective workingrelationships with colleagues, healthcare professionals, and otherstakeholders across the institution.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment,adapt to changing priorities, and exercise sound judgment whenseeking or providing assistance or guidance.

Questions should be directed to: Hala Nijmeh at [e-mail]

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, butpreference will be given to complete applications received byAugust 30, 2026. Those who do not apply by this date may ormay not be considered.

Anticipated Pay Range:

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

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for thisposition has been established as:Intermediate: $68,971 to $92,421Senior: $74,563 to $99,915The above salary range (or hiring range) represents theUniversity's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range ofpossible compensation at the time of posting. This position may beeligible 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 plansand retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total CompensationCalculator

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with allapplicable federal, state, and local laws governingnondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating aworkplace where all individuals are treated with respect anddignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds toapply, including protected veterans and individuals withdisabilities.

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicantswith disabilities throughout the employment application process. Torequest an accommodation pursuant to the Americans withDisabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADACoordinator at [e-mail].

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz is dedicated to ensuring a safeand secure environment for our faculty, staff, students andvisitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct backgroundinvestigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19virus and other vaccine preventable diseases . If you work, visit, or volunteerin healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliatedhospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will berequired to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillancepolicies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, orvolunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certainresearch areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, youmust enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program .