Cytotechnologist Series

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Employees in this series perform cytological laboratory work.

DESCRIPTIONS OF LEVELS OF WORK

Employees at this level perform moderately complex cytology work. They work under direct supervision from a designated supervisor(s).

A(n) Cytotechnologist I typically -

1. selects and carries out methods of obtaining specimens and separating cell types appropriate to various diagnostic problems;
2. performs routine, as well as special, staining procedures;
3. scans a wide variety of cytologic slides, marking unusual cells for interpretation by the pathologist, using judgment based on a knowledge of normal and abnormal tissue and cell characteristics to be expected in the area represented;
4. provides instruction for physicians and others concerning methods of obtaining cytologic specimens;
5. supervises laboratory personnel assigned;
6. performs other related duties as assigned.

Employees at this level perform highly complex cytology work. They work under general supervision from a designated supervisor.

A(n) Cytotechnologist II typically -

1. devises and tests new methods of obtaining or processing specimens;
2. develops and maintains quality- and accuracy-control methods in a cytology laboratory;
3. assigns work to laboratory personnel, with responsibility for establishing priorities and reviewing quantity and quality of completed assignments;
4. develops and maintains records used for study, research, and teaching;
5. scans and partially interprets cytologic specimens;
6. instructs technicians and physicians in cytologic techniques and methods;
7. performs other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE QUALIFICATIONS

CREDENTIALS TO BE VERIFIED BY PLACEMENT OFFICER

1. Bachelor’s degree in biological science, clinical lab science, medical lab technician, medical technologist, Allied health or a closely related field, qualifying the applicant to take the national ASCP certifying examination.
2. Successful completion of a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) accredited Cytotechnology program within the last five (5) years (60 months).
3. Meet CLIA 88 requirements (CFR. 493. 1483).

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs)

1. Knowledge of all aspects of cyto-preparation including routine and special stains, fixatives and procedures.
2. Knowledge and understanding of all quality control and safety procedures.
3. Ability to use your hands in a skillful, coordinated way to grasp and manipulate objects and demonstrate small, precise movements.
4. Ability to see details at close range and at a distance.
5. Ability to make accurate observations and diagnosis.
6. Ability to examine a slide and concentrate for long periods of time utilizing a microscope and physical ability to perform continual microscopic examinations and have normal color perception.

CREDENTIALS TO BE VERIFIED BY PLACEMENT OFFICER

1. Bachelor’s degree in biological science, clinical lab science, medical lab technician, medical technologist, Allied health or a closely related field.
2. American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) Cytotechnologist (CT) certification/licensure.
3. Meet CLIA 88 requirements (CFR. 493. 1483).
4. Three (3) years (36 months) of experience performing cytology work in a clinical cytology laboratory.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs)

1. Knowledge of all aspects of cyto-preparation including routine and special stains, fixatives and procedures.
2. Knowledge and understanding of all quality control and safety procedures.
3. Ability to supervise.
4. Ability to use your hands in a skillful, coordinated way to grasp and manipulate objects and demonstrate small, precise movements.
5. Ability to see details at close range and at a distance.
6. Ability to make accurate observations and diagnosis.
7. Ability to examine a slide and concentrate for long periods of time utilizing a microscope and physical ability to perform continual microscopic examinations and have normal color perception.