Cytologist

Job Summary:

Nature of Work

The University of Colorado Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus is seeking applications for a Cytotechnologist. This full-time (1.0 FTE), University Staff (non-classified) position is responsible for the microscopic examination of cells in order to detect cancer and/or other abnormalities, and report these results to the pathologist. This role will also assist in collection and processing of FNA specimens for Rapid On-Site Evaluation (ROSE).

The incumbent:

• Discerns cytologic changes present in a disease process, specifically malignant or pre-malignant changes to a high level of accuracy.
• Prioritizes tasks and work in a timely manner.
• Makes sound decisions working independently, and in a team setting.
• Communicate effectively with physicians, patients, and staff.
• Abides by State, Federal, and governing agency (CAP, CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA) guidelines and regulations.

Professional Field

• This is a professional clinical position in the Department of Pathology, Cytology Laboratory that requires the following:
• Baccalaureate degree from an accredited (regionally or nationally) college/university, AND successful completion of a CAAHEP accredited Cytotechnology program within the last five years.
• CT(ASCP) certification

Supervision Received

• This position reports directly to the cytology supervisor with a dotted line to the Director of Cytopathology. Supervision consists of quality control of 10% of slides.

Supervision Exercised

• Supervisory level Cytotechnologist performs quality control of 10% of negative gynecological specimens screened by other cytotechnologists.
• Cytotechnologist trains laboratory assistants in the cytopreparatory techniques used, and teaches pathology residents on the subjects of Pap Test and Anal Pap cytology.

Examples of Work Performed

• 50% - Performs microscopic examination of gynecologic and nongynecologic samples for the detection of cancer and/or other abnormalities, with accuracy and in timely manner. Provides direct diagnostic interpretations on normal gynecological specimens, and indirect diagnostic interpretations on abnormal gynecological specimens and non-gynecological specimens.
• 40% - Assists with fine needle aspirate (FNA) collection and preparation. Provides FNA adequacy statement and triages FNA specimens for ancillary studies.
• 6% - Keeps accurate work records in compliance with regulatory and departmental requirements and maintains certification by completing appropriate continuing education requirements. Participates in annual proficiency testing.
• 2 % - Evaluates technical quality of prepared specimens and performs quality control on 10% of negative prescreened gynecologic specimens.
• 1% - Monitors/orders supplies as needed and maintains staining lines and microscopes in satellite laboratories.
• 1% - Provides training and guidance on cytologic preparations to pathology residents and cytology laboratory assistants.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrates professional conduct and maintains positive working relationships.
• Recognizes potential specimen and/or processing errors and takes appropriate corrective action.
• Demonstrates willingness to accommodate schedule changes in times of staffing shortages.
• Demonstrates knowledgeable in preparatory and staining techniques, as well as alternate processing techniques.
• Experience assisting with Fine Needle Aspirations.
• Experience working in a teaching hospital setting.

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.

Why Join Us:

Welcome to the Department of Pathology of the University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus. The Department has grown substantially in the past 15 years, from 40 to 120 faculty in parallel with the remarkable growth of our hospital-based affiliates as well as the city and county of Denver. Our work is value driven and focused on scientific investigation, lifelong learning, and a balance of personal and professional values. In addition to a vibrant and highly competitive residency program with 25 positions, we offer 9 fellowships and participate in numerous graduate schools and the MD/PhD program of the CU School of Medicine. Our faculty and staff are diverse, and gender balanced, with women comprising 50% of our residents, Assistant, Associate and Full Professors (including those with tenure).

The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, tuition benefits, ECO pass, paid time off - vacation, sick, and holidays and more. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits-wellness.

Diversity and Equity:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty and administrative staff. The university strives to promote a culture of inclusiveness, respect, communication and understanding. We encourage applications from women, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons within the LGBTQ+ community and all veterans. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.

Qualifications:

Minimum Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in biological science, nutrition, nursing, health, human services, psychology, counseling, social work, or a directly related field from an accredited institution
• 2 years of professional related level experience.
  
  
  
  • Substitution: A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor's degree on a year for year basis
  
  
  
  
• Graduation from an accredited cytotechnology-training program
• Cytotechnologist certification through The American Society for Clinical Pathology, CT (ASCP)
• One year of experience serving in a Clinical Laboratory Cytotechnologist role
• Current, passing proficiency testing certificate

Required: Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

• PLEASE NOTE: Candidates will be responsible for travel expenses related to
• the interview process and any relocation expenses, if applicable.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Work experience in an Academic Medical environment

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

1. A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position (only use if a cover letter is necessary)

2. Curriculum vitae / Resume

3. Three to five professional references, including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Questions should be directed to: Katharine Nejkauf, KATHARINE.NEJKAUF@CUANSCHUTZ.EDU

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by July 31, 2024.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as $70,000 - $90,000.

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position may be eligible 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 plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@cuanschutz.edu.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.