The Cytotechnologist is part of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service within the Cincinnati VA Medical Center.
Functions or Scope of assigned duties of Cytotechnologist are but limited to the following: Diagnostic Duties (35%): Perform highly complex testing on cellular material from all human body sites. Microscopically examines prepared cytological specimens and renders diagnoses.
Recognizes normal and abnormal cytology, including but not limited to, malignant neoplasms, precancerous lesions, infectious agents and inflammatory processes in gynecologic, non-gynecologic and fine-needle aspiration (FNA) specimens. Detects, selects and clearly marks the cells most representative of the pathological process.
Develops differential diagnoses based on cellular evidence in conjunction with pertinent cognitive knowledge, clinical data, histological correlative material, review of previous patient material and knowledge of the various modes of treatment and their effect on the cytological interpretation. Independently screens and evaluates gynecologic cytologic specimens (Pap smears) for evidence of infection, precancerous changes of malignancy.
Determines which Pap smears are within normal limits, separating them from those that show possible abnormalities and require pathologist review. Issues final pathologic report on negative Pap smears under his/her own name, with sole responsibility for the diagnosis. Formulates a provisional diagnosis on all atypical gynecologic cytology specimens and on all non-gynecologic specimens and forwards them to the attending pathologist for review.
Functions as attending pathologist's assistant in FNA/core biopsy procedures in special radiologic procedures and clinics. In addition, independently prepares FNA specimens on-site, stains and microscopically examines to determine adequacy of cytological interpretation. Gid the clinician in obtaining further samples, if needed. Determines appropriate triage of procure FNA specimens for further diagnostic studies.
Lab Oversight (25%): Together with the Anatomic Pathology Supervisor, develops, implements, and monitors the lab's Quality Control/Assurance Program (QC/A) to provide improved Veteran care. Monitors workload and productivity and recommend improvements where needed. Recognizes and reacts to indicators of abnormal findings or aberrant results. Determines, plans and implements new procedures and technologies to achieve and maintain a state-of-the-art cytopathology laboratory.
Responsible for establishing, validating, and writing procedures for Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) manual for newly procured tests and instruments to further improve cytopathology service to the Veterans. Instructs cytopathology/anatomic pathology staff on processing of cytologic specimens, emphasizing proper patient safety issues, workflow and equipment operations.
When changes in specimen collection/processing and diagnostic classification occur, actively participates in medical staff meetings and conferences to provide providers with current information and ensure continued quality Veteran care. Responsible for preparation for accreditation inspections and correction of identified deficiencies of the lab.
Attends and participates in various department meetings for the improvement of inter and intradepartmental relations and the maintenance of optimal Veteran care. Monitors resources used in lab in terms of supplies, stock levels and re-order points; maintains good inventory and ordering practices; reviews budget reports and makes recommendations for cost containment, when necessary..
Technical Duties (20%): Evaluates requested procedures to determine the suitability of specimens for processing and request new specimens, if specimen is determined unusable. Has experience and knowledge in processing and preparation of specimens for cytopathology testing while controlling physical conditions and complying with time factors to ensure that the physiological state of the specimen is maintained.
Acknowledges technical limitations and various possibilities for procedural errors in Cyto-preparation and takes corrective action. Develops procedures for new testing methods to include new molecular diagnostics technology. Establishes standards and writes instructions for calibrating and standardizing instruments and equipment. Obtains the necessary approval to implement new techniques or practices in the local laboratory.
Prepares professional implementation plan, including test and evaluation of the technique in meeting stated objectives. Develop quality control measures for implementation. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:30am - 4:00pm Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 93529-0 Recruitment Incentives: A Recruitment Incentive may be authorized for a Highly Qualified Individual.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education.
For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
Ellen.Cole@va.gov · (317) 988-4508
This position is with Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs.
The posted pay range is $77785 – $101126/yr.
Applications close on 2026-10-05.
This position is open under the 'Fed Internal Search' hiring path.
Source: USAJOBS.gov — U.S. Federal Government
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