Cytotechnologist

Summary

The Cytotechnologist is part of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service within the Cincinnati VA Medical Center.

Duties

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.

Requirements

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. Must pass pre-employment physical examination. 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.

Qualifications and evaluation

IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position. It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment. Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.

Education

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/.

How to apply

All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 10/05/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13068752. To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire. Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package. NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.

Required documents

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes: Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV) The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc. Cover Letter DD-214/ Statement of Service Disability Letter (Schedule A) Disability Letter (VA) License Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV) Other (1) Other (2) Other (3) Performance Appraisal Professional Certification Separation Notice (RIF) SF-15 SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action Transcript Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference. Veterans' preference does not apply for internal or other current permanent Federal agency employees.

Additional information

Receiving Service Credit for Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed. During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions. This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies. This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status. VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority. If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement. Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.