Cytogenetic Technologist PRN

Paylocity; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Paylocity is seeking a Cytogenetic Technologist to join our clinical laboratory team in Houston, TX. The role centers on performing clinical cytogenetic testing, with a primary focus on fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) procedures to deliver accurate results.

Responsibilities include processing specimens, ensuring quality control, maintaining equipment, documenting results, and adhering to CAP/CLIA, OSHA, HIPAA, and lab safety standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor's degree in a related biological science.
• Completion of a cytogenetics training program or equivalent experience.
• Ability to perform moderate- and high-complexity testing.
• Strong attention to detail and accurate documentation.

Responsibilities

• Receive, identify, accession, and evaluate cytogenetic specimens for testing.
• Process specimens and perform slide preparation, staining, and analyze FISH testing according to established laboratory procedures.
• Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and perform quality control on laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
• Evaluate chromosome preparations and microscopic findings for quality and adequacy.
• Perform image capture, chromosome classification, and documentation using laboratory imaging/analysis systems.
• Review and document QC results before reporting patient testing.
• Recognize unacceptable specimens, technical problems, and testing discrepancies and elevate appropriately.
• Maintain accurate worksheets, technical records, QC records, maintenance logs, and patient testing documentation.
• Participate in proficiency testing (PT), competency assessment, quality assurance, and quality improvement activities.
• Follow CAP, CLIA, OSHA, HIPAA, and laboratory policies and procedures.
• Maintain appropriate turnaround times and communicate testing delays or problems to supervisory personnel.
• Maintain competency in all assigned procedures.
• Participate in continuing education and professional development and perform other laboratory duties as assigned.

Skills

FISH techniques

Cytogenetic analysis

Laboratory documentation

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, medical laboratory science, genetics, molecular biology, or related field

Tools

Cytogenetic training program

Job description

Description

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly qualified and detail-oriented Cytogenetic Technologist to join our laboratory team. The Cytogenetic Technologist will perform clinical cytogenetic testing, primarily fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) procedure.

The technologist is responsible for producing accurate, timely, and high-quality test results while following laboratory policies, manufacturer instructions, CAP/CLIA requirements, quality control procedures, and established safety practices.

Essential Responsibilities

• Receive, identify, accession, and evaluate cytogenetic specimens for testing.
• Process specimens and perform slide preparation, staining, and analyze FISH testing according to established laboratory procedures.
• Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and perform quality control on laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
• Evaluate chromosome preparations and microscopic findings for quality and adequacy.
• Perform image capture, chromosome classification, and documentation using laboratory imaging/analysis systems.
• Review and document QC results before reporting patient testing.
• Recognize unacceptable specimens, technical problems, and testing discrepancies and elevate appropriately.
• Maintain accurate worksheets, technical records, QC records, maintenance logs, and patient testing documentation.
• Participate in proficiency testing (PT), competency assessment, quality assurance, and quality improvement activities.
• Follow CAP, CLIA, OSHA, HIPAA, and laboratory policies and procedures.
• Maintain appropriate turnaround times and communicate testing delays or problems to supervisory personnel.
• Maintain competency in all assigned procedures.
• Participate in continuing education and professional development and perform other laboratory duties as assigned.

Requirements

Minimum Qualification

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, medical laboratory science, genetics, molecular biology, or a related biological science field.
• Completion of an appropriate cytogenetics training program or equivalent qualifying clinical cytogenetics experience.
• Ability to perform moderate- and high-complexity laboratory testing.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately document laboratory testings

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of human chromosome structure, nomenclature, and cytogenetic abnormalities.
• Knowledge of FISH methodology and quality requirements.
• Ability to recognize normal and abnormal chromosome patterns.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical problems and identify testing discrepancies.
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary laboratory team.
• Ability to prioritize multiple specimens while maintaining quality and turnaround time.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Commitment to patient safety, confidentiality, and laboratory quality.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and/or sit for extended periods.
• Ability to perform repetitive fine-motor and microscope-related activities.
• Ability to work with laboratory specimens, reagents, and chemicals while following appropriate safety precautions.
• Ability to lift and move laboratory supplies as required.

Work Environment

• Clinical laboratory setting
• Exposure to biological specimens and chemicals (PPE required)