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Cytogenetic Technologist

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What Do Cytogenetic Technologist Do?

Career Description Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, and blood to aid in the study, diagnosis, or treatment of genetic diseases.

Daily Life Of a Cytogenetic Technologist

  • Archive case documentation and study materials as required by regulations and laws.
  • Communicate test results or technical information to patients, physicians, family members, or researchers.
  • Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions.
  • Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.
  • Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.
  • Stain slides to make chromosomes visible for microscopy.

Skills Needed to be a Cytogenetic Technologist

When polled, Cytogenetic Technologists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

  • Cytogenetic Technologist
  • Technical Specialist, Cytogenetics
  • Laboratory Specialist (Lab Specialist)
  • Cytogenetic Technician
  • Cytogenetics Technologist

Job Outlook for Cytogenetic Technologists

In 2016, there was an estimated number of 171,400 jobs in the United States for Cytogenetic Technologist. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 11.6% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 19,800 new jobs for Cytogenetic Technologist by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 12,900 job openings in this field each year.

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The states with the most job growth for Cytogenetic Technologist are Utah, Colorado, and Arizona. Watch out if you plan on working in Rhode Island, Connecticut, or Illinois. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

Tools & Technologies Used by Cytogenetic Technologists

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Cytogenetic Technologists:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Image analysis software

Becoming a Cytogenetic Technologist

What education or degrees do I need to become a Cytogenetic Technologist?

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What work experience do I need to become a Cytogenetic Technologist?

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References:

Image Credit: Staff Sgt. Jerilyn Quintanilla via U.S. Air Force photo

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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