Cytotechnologist

Pay Range: $38.20 - $57.30

Job Summary: Cytotechnologist performs microscopic evaluations of gynecologic and non-gynecologic cytology specimens. Uses independent judgment and cognitive skills to develop interpretations to be used by the physician in determining the presence of disease and/or an infectious process.

Major Responsibilities: Demonstrates working and theoretical knowledge of diagnostic principles and interpretation of gynecologic and non-gynecologic evaluations and consistent screening productivity. Evaluates patient samples to determine the absence or presence of malignant and pre-malignant changes, infectious and inflammatory processes. Identifies and provides accurate diagnoses within the department guidelines. False negative fraction and major/minor discrepancy within acceptable range set by the Supervisor Technical Lab. Follows screening limits and workload policy as required by the Clinical Laboratories Improvement Amendment of 1988 (CLIA'88). Ascertains specimens are properly identified, labeled, data entered and suitable for testing. Identifies and corrects, as needed, patient demographics, clinical history, specimen identification and billing errors. Ensures reports are precise, accurate and timely according to the quality assurance program. Assists and prepares cytology slides from fine needle aspiration (FNA) procedures using the proper technique. May perform, evaluate and monitor quality control and quality assurance for cytology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular testing, noting trends and identifying issues. Troubleshoots equipment, validates instruments, and tests according to established protocols. Recognizes indicators of test and/or instrument malfunction; evaluates and implements appropriate corrections. Documents all appropriate information for quality assurance/improvement according to established protocol. Monitors workflow and makes necessary adjustment to complete work in an appropriate time frame. Utilizes all required computer information systems appropriately. Follows policy for reporting and entering results in the department computer system. Refers cases for quality control review and pathologist interpretation. Understands, follows, and assists in improving laboratory procedures, policies, and processes. Supports change efforts within the organization and contributes to their successful implementation. Ensures compliance with all accrediting agency standards. Provides general direction and technical assistance to lab aides, pathologists, colleagues, client services and clients. Must be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served. Must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his/her age-specific needs, and to provide the care needed as described in the department's policies and procedures. Age-specific information is developed further in the departmental job standards. Licensure, Registration, and/or Certification Required Cytotechnologist (CT) certification issued by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), or Specialist in Cytotechnology (SCT) certification issued by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), or Cytotechnologist (CT) certification issued by the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP BOC) needs to be obtained within 1 year.

Education Required: Bachelor's Degree in Clinical Laboratory Sciences, or Bachelor's Degree in Cytotechnology. (Bachelors degree in biological science or equivalent will also be considered.)Experience Recent cytology experience in an acute care hospital or high-volume clinical setting preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Required Minimum one year of training in a school of cytotechnology that is approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Required to participate in cytology proficiency testing and continuing education, having a minimum of 12 credit hours. Attend and participate with mandatory in-services and department meetings. Have a working knowledge of cytologic specimen processing. Maintain constructive and effective communication to enhance department performance. Must be able to work well with others in a team to complete tasks. Must be able to demonstrate computer competency and be detail oriented. Maintain current knowledge of and comply with contents of all pertinent policy and procedure manuals. Maintain patient confidentiality in and out of the workplace. Demonstrate willingness to work a flexible schedule that may include alternate site assignment.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: Must be able to operate all equipment essential in performing the job. Frequently lifts up to 10 lbs. Will occasionally be required to lift up to 50 lbs. Must be able to sit, stand and walk for the majority of the workday. Ability to sit in a static position for extended periods of time. May be exposed to mechanical, electrical, chemical, explosive, radiation, reagents, radioisotopes, and infectious agents. Will be exposed to human blood, body fluids and tissue. Must wear appropriate lab coat, gloves, gowns and eye and face protection as needed. Must be able to handle stressful situations in a calm and professional manner. May require travel, therefore may be exposed to inclement weather and adverse road conditions. Our Commitment to YouAdvocate Health offers a comprehensive suite of Total Rewards: benefits and well-being programs, competitive compensation, generous retirement offerings, programs that invest in your career development and so much more – so you can live fully at and away from work, including:

Compensation: Base compensation listed within the listed pay range based on factors such as qualifications, skills, relevant experience, and/or training Premium pay such as shift, on call, and more based on a teammate's job Incentive pay for select positions Opportunity for annual increases based on performance Benefits and more Paid Time Off programs Health and welfare benefits such as medical, dental, vision, life, and Short- and Long-Term Disability Flexible Spending Accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses Family benefits such as adoption assistance and paid parental leave Defined contribution retirement plans with employer match and other financial wellness programs Educational Assistance Program Note: Eligibility for programs listed above may depend on your FTE or status (e.g., full-time, part-time, per diem, temporary, etc.); please ask a Recruiter for more information during an interview.

About Advocate Health: Advocate Health is the third-largest nonprofit, integrated health system in the United States, created from the combination of Advocate Aurora Health and Atrium Health. Providing care under the names Advocate Health Care in Illinois; Atrium Health in the Carolinas, Georgia and Alabama; and Aurora Health Care in Wisconsin, Advocate Health is a national leader in clinical innovation, health outcomes, consumer experience and value-based care. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Advocate Health services nearly 6 million patients and is engaged in hundreds of clinical trials and research studies, with Wake Forest University School of Medicine serving as the academic core of the enterprise. It is nationally recognized for its expertise in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, pediatrics and rehabilitation, as well as organ transplants, burn treatments and specialized musculoskeletal programs. Advocate Health employs 155,000 teammates across 69 hospitals and over 1,000 care locations, and offers one of the nation's largest graduate medical education programs with over 2,000 residents and fellows across more than 200 programs. Committed to providing equitable care for all, Advocate Health provides more than $6 billion in annual community benefits. This is Transformation One shared purpose brought us together. Now, as one of the 10 largest not-for-profit, integrated health systems in the United States, our combined strength and stability drives us forward. Starting with You Caring for nearly 3 million people has inspired a transformation. One in which the patient's experience guides our vision and empowers us to offer new possibilities in our communities. Reshaping Access What is access? It's offering more sites of care than any other health system in the Midwest. But there's a new frontier. Access is exploring the latest technologies to deliver care to patients exactly where they are and exactly when they need it Inspiring Professionals With our dynamically inclusive workforce and strong connections to the places where we live and work, we'll touch more lives and contribute to stronger and more vibrant communities. Transforming Care We're redefining the standard for care with world-class doctors and caregivers, innovative solutions, outstanding outcomes, and leading-edge research and clinical trials. Combined, Advocate and Aurora are recognized for clinical excellence in: Cardiovascular Care Neurosciences Gynecology Oncology Pediatrics Primary Care Neurology Geriatrics Trauma Care