Cytotechnologist

The incumbent occupies the position of Cytotechnologist of the Anatomic Pathology Section, which involves the performance of highly specialized work requiring theoretical knowledge, scientific competence and unusual professional judgment. The position requires responsibility for the examination of a wide range of patient samples submitted for evaluation regarding the presence/absence of benign and malignant conditions.

TECHNICAL -- Evaluates the quality and adequacy of all patient samples before accepting and logging them into the section. Prepares and stains cytology slides for all GYN & non-GYN specimens. Evaluates the quality of all cytology preparations by light microscopy. Makes preliminary diagnoses independently of the pathologist. Makes diagnoses using wide range of knowledge of the human body and pathologic processes, including normal/abnormal cellular patterns, inflammatory reactions, presence of micro-organisms, benign changes, premalignant conditions, and cellular responses to therapeutic agents. Makes diagnoses using clinical history provided and/or consults clinician using experience and knowledge in order to collect significant information necessary for an accurate diagnosis. Uses extensive knowledge of cellular morphology for all specimens which include cervical/vaginal (gynecologic), GI, GU, respiratory, body cavity and cyst fluids, CSF specimens, fine needle aspiration biopsies of all organs (liver, pancreas, adrenal, lymph node, kidney, lung, breast, head and neck). ADMINISTRATIVE -- Responsible for assisting the Histopathology supervisor in implementing and maintaining all regulatory quality control and quality assurance functions related to cytology. Reviews and updates the General Cytology Manual according to all applicable VAH and federal regulatory agency requirements or recommendations. Works closely with the pathologists, and reports to the Chief, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service. Provides forms for and documents daily, quarterly, and annual quality control and quality assurance records. Compiles quarterly statistics as per regulation. Monitors and updates cyto-preparatory charts, procedures, and safety compliance documents. Complies with the guidelines of the hospital, CLIA, CAP, and VA regulatory agencies. Responsible for collecting, researching and reporting acceptable cases for proficiency testing purposes. These cases are sent to VA and CAP offices for acceptance and distribution. Other duties as assigned. Work Schedule: M-F 0800-1630 Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 56459-F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

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/. NOTE: If your school has changed names, or is no longer in existence, you must provide this information in your application.