Cytology Lead

Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate daily operations of the cytology laboratory
• Oversee cytotechnologists, technicians, aides, and support staff performing moderate- to high-complexity cytology testing
• Ensure accurate, timely, and high-quality diagnostic results
• Support and maintain regulatory compliance
• Serve as a key liaison between cytology staff, pathologists, and referring providers
• Perform advanced cytologic screening and interpretation
• Provide mentorship, training, and professional development for cytology personnel
• Exercise independent judgment in managing laboratory workflow, quality initiatives, and operational priorities

Experience Requirements

• Six years (72 months) of high-complexity CLIA laboratory experience
• At least two years of experience in Anatomic Pathology or Histopathology and Cytology

Education Requirements (one of the following)

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Medical Laboratory Technology
• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Biology or Chemistry, including:
• 6 semester hours in Biology
• 6 semester hours in Chemistry
• An additional 12 combined semester hours in Biology, Chemistry, or Medical Laboratory Technology
• One year of full-time Cytology experience or training in a CLIA-certified laboratory

Certification Requirements (one of the following)

• CT (ASCP)

• Extensive knowledge of cytology theory, techniques, and diagnostic criteria
• Strong understanding of cytologic specimen preparation, screening, and reporting
• Knowledge of laboratory safety standards and OSHA requirements
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to lead teams, facilitate meetings, and support continuous improvement initiatives
• Professional, courteous interaction with physicians, staff, and external stakeholders

• Knowledge of quality control (QC), quality assurance (QA), and record-keeping procedures consistent with good laboratory practices
• Compliance with regulatory and accrediting agencies, including CAP and CMS
• Develop, maintain, and review QA and QC programs within the laboratory
• Coordinate instrument comparisons, AMR studies, and CAP proficiency testing
• Perform validation studies for new instruments, tests, and procedures
• Work with administrative staff to prepare for accreditation inspections and surveys and ensure inspection readiness

• Directly supervise histology laboratory technologists and technicians
• Plan, assign, and adjust work assignments to maximize efficiency while maintaining accuracy and timely reporting
• Monitor staff performance and collaborate with management on formal performance evaluations
• Develop performance goals and objectives for staff members
• Supervise and train new employees and pathology residents in laboratory materials and equipment preparation
• Assist in employee recruitment and interview processes
• Conduct periodic staff meetings
• Perform timecard adjustments and assess staff competencies
• Coordinate staff training, complete training checklists, and conduct competency evaluations

• Strong organizational skills to effectively interact with staff pathologists
• Effective oral and written communication skills, including the ability to formulate processes and develop procedures
• Knowledge of group process techniques and team leadership for meetings and project teams
• Effective interpersonal and teamwork skills
• Interact professionally and courteously with physicians, staff, visitors, and customers in person and by telephone

• Ensure continuous laboratory workflow by collaborating closely with other supervisors
• Write and review technical procedures with detailed instructions for new or modified methodologies
• Order and maintain laboratory supplies and reagent inventory
• Perform bench-level testing as required

• Participate in the laboratory Continuing Education (CE) program
• Perform other duties as assigned