Cytology Prep Technicians require expanded knowledge and understanding of laboratory techniques and the ability to perform technical tasks, as assigned, based on specific department needs. Good reading, writing, and math abilities are required. Must be able to demonstrate good problem solving skills, highly developed interpersonal skills, and a high level of self-motivation. This role functions as a technical lead within the cytology department, providing training, day-to-day workflow guidance, and operational support to ensure efficient, high-quality laboratory performance. The Cytology Prep Technician Lead supports staff development, assists with workflow prioritization, and serves as a resource to team members. Employees are responsible for following all Company policies and procedures. These policies and procedures will include adherence to regulatory standards such as CAP, CLIA and OSHA, including safety standards in performing all aspects of the functions below. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Essential functions of the job include, but are not limited to:
Maintain competency in all cytological processes and procedures within the laboratory
Provides departmental oversight and workflow coordination in the absence of the Histology Lab Manager, including supporting staff, prioritizing workload, and ensuring continuity of operations.
Performs validations of new equipment and testing for Cytology
Assists Histology Manager with oversight of departmental QA/QC
Assists with updating/maintaining Cytology Procedures
Assists with compliance of all regulatory requirements to include CAP, CLIA, HIPAA and
OSHA
Communicate with Pathologist team regarding new processes and procedures as
needed.
Responsible for troubleshooting and problem solving as needed
Develop, implement, and improve processes, while supporting staff adoption and adherence to new workflows
Performs other related duties as assigned.
DEPARTMENT-SPECIFIC
Receives and accession cytology specimens
Cytology prep for thinprep and cellblock
Provides day-to-day technical guidance and support to cytology staff to ensure workflow efficiency and quality outcomes
Assists in training, onboarding, and competency development of new and existing employees
Supports workflow coordination and prioritization to meet turnaround time expectations
Serves as a resource to staff for troubleshooting technical and procedural questions
Reinforces adherence to departmental policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
Supports daily workflow coordination within cytology to ensure efficient specimen processing and case readiness
Maintains all cytology equipment
Maintains equipment and supplies in clean condition, including transferring used regents from instruments to 90-day accumulation containers (55-gal drums)
Other duties as assigned
PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS, ENVIRONMENT:
In exercising these functions the employee must be able to exert up to 40 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 lbs. of force frequently, and/or up to 10 lbs. of force routinely to move objects.
Employee may be exposed to blood products, knife cuts, hazardous waste and chemical fumes, so appropriate precautionary measures must be followed at all times. Certain situations require eye protection, mask, lab coat and or gloves. Hazardous Waste training required.
Must be able to perform repetitive motion
EQUIPMENT USED:
Microwave and conventional tissue processors
Embedding center
Stainers, H and E, IHC and Thin-Prep
Coverslipper
Centrifuge
T-2000/T-5000
Typical lab equipment
Computer
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Provides functional oversight of cytology workflow and staff guidance. No direct reports.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
High school diploma or equivalent required
Associate degree or higher preferred
Minimum 3–5 years of relevant cytology, histology, or laboratory experience required
Prior experience training staff or supporting workflow coordination preferred
Strong understanding of cytology workflows and laboratory operations
Ability to train and mentor staff
Strong organizational and prioritization skills
Ability to troubleshoot and resolve workflow issues
Knowledge of CAP, CLIA, and OSHA standards
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those individuals and employee encounters while performing the duties of this job. Clin-Path provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and gender identity. Clin-Path complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment including, recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training. Benefits:
Clin-Path Associates offers nationally competitive compensation and benefits. Our benefits program provides a comprehensive array of services to our employees including, but not limited to health insurance (Primarily covered by the company), dental insurance (100% covered by the company) vision insurance, paid time off, retirement contributions (401k), & flexible spending account (FSA).