Cytogenetics Laboratory Technician (Laboratory Tech I)

Job Summary:

The Laboratory Technologist Level I (Lab Tech I) in the Colorado Genetics Laboratory (CGL) is responsible for performing clinical cytogenetic testing, including chromosome analysis, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and/or chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) under the supervision of senior laboratory personnel. The Lab Tech I participates in specimen processing (wet lab) and other tasks deemed necessary for CGL to ensure accurate and timely reporting of clinical cytogenetic testing results. The Lab Tech I will also assist in maintaining laboratory equipment, inventory control, and adhering to standard operating procedures, quality control protocols, and operational and professionalism guidelines.

Key Responsibilities:

Patient Specimen Accessioning and Quality Assurance - 25%

• Receives and logs biological specimens sent to CGL for testing.
• Ensures appropriate identification and documentation by review of requisition forms and specimens to confirm matching patient identifiers, specimen type and test(s) requested.
• Assigns accession numbers appropriate to test requests.
• Prints culture sheet and barcode labels.
• Transports specimens to CGL for processing.
• Properly records the types of pre-analytic variables found at accessioning for evaluation in the Quality Assurance (QA) Program.

Specimen Processing and Preparation for Analysis - 25%

• Initiates, maintains, and harvests cell cultures, and prepares slides for chromosome analysis and FISH assays; extracts DNA for CMA; participates in quality control and quality assurance protocols.
• Selects and performs specimen processing methodologies/techniques ensuring high quality cytogenetic/molecular preparations. In conjunction with certified technologists, observes, learns, and is engaged in process improvement and troubleshooting. Understands equipment use and notifies senior colleagues of possible malfunction.
• This position must have and/or continually develop core knowledge and understanding of:

1. General principles of clinical laboratory work, specifically specimen handling, sterile technique, and cell culture.
2. Basic use, maintenance, and care of laboratory equipment and computer workstations.
3. Safe laboratory practices for the handling and disposal of biohazardous waste and hazardous chemicals.
4. Use of personal protective equipment through University of Colorado (CU) training courses and on the job training.
5. Cytogenetic principles including but not limited to reasons for testing and assay techniques.

Wet Lab Maintenance and Inventory Control - 25%

• Prepares reagents and media as needed.
• Monitors QC parameters of laboratory equipment; participates in cleaning and preventive maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Handles hazardous waste according to CGL and CU protocols.
• Cleans and files slides from completed assays.
• Maintains neat, clean, and well stocked work areas.
• Participates in inventory control and, when authorized, inventory purchase.
• Receives, dates, and stores inventory.
• Independently manages and organizes wet lab maintenance assignments.

Orientation and training - 25%

• When required, participates in the orientation and training of new employees, genetics students, residents, and other health care professionals.
• When appropriate, trains in assay analysis under senior cytogenetic technologist supervision. This may include chromosome karyotype analysis, FISH signal scoring, and/or microarray analysis; preparing digitized images of karyotypes or FISH assays using a computerized imaging system; and summarizes case analysis.
• Will receive training in order to apply for ASCP cytogenetic certification, when appropriate.

Work Location:

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

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 school 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).

Why work for the University?

We have AMAZING benefits and offer exceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:

• Medical: Multiple plan options
• Dental: Multiple plan options
• Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
• Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay
• Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year
• Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
• Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
• Holiday Days: 10/year
• Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
• ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

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, ethnically minoritized individuals, persons with disabilities, persons within the LGBTQ+ community and all veterans. In addition, the Anschutz Campus has also been recognized as an Age-Friendly University. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

A combination of related education and/or relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to this position equal to two (2) years

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

• An associate degree in a chemical or biological science or medical laboratory technology.
• Biology or genetics laboratory work experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution.
• Outstanding customer service skills.
• Demonstrated commitment and ability to advance diversity and inclusion.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of basic medical terminology, human anatomy, and physiology.
• Ability to prioritize workload while maintaining attention to detail and excellent work organization.
• High work ethic, accountability, and reliability by prioritizing patient care while treating all staff with curtesy and professionalism.
• Ability to listen and follow precise protocols and written instructions.
• Knowledge and experience using laboratory equipment.

How to Apply:

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

1. Curriculum vitae / Resume

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

Questions should be directed to: PathHR at PathHR@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by March 1, 2025. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE $49,728-$57,682

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.