Cytogenetic Technologists: Career Profile
Analyze chromosomes or chromosome segments found in biological specimens, such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, solid tumors, and blood to aid in the study, diagnosis, classification, or treatment of inherited or acquired genetic diseases. Conduct analyses through classical cytogenetic, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) or array comparative genome hybridization (aCGH) techniques.
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What Tasks Do Cytogenetic Technologists Take On?
The core tasks performed by cytogenetic technologists cover:
- Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.
- Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
- Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.
- Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.
- Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.
- Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital disabilities, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
- Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
- Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.
What Cytogenetic Technologists Need to Know
Top cytogenetic technologists draw on a mix of skills and domain knowledge.
Key Skills
These are the skills most central to this role, rated on an importance scale of 0 to 5:
Knowledge Areas
Types of Cytogenetic Technologists Jobs
Common job titles for this role include:
- Certified Cytogenetic Technologist
- Clinical Cytogeneticist Scientist (CCS)
- Cytogenetic Technician
- Cytogenetic Technologist
- Cytogenetics Clinical Laboratory Specialist (CG CLSp)
- Cytogenetics Technical Specialist
- Cytogenetics Technologist
- Cytologist
Job Outlook
There are roughly 2,061,475 cytogenetic technologists working in the United States today. This occupation is expected to grow by +1.9% over the projection horizon.
Salary for Cytogenetic Technologists
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Annual median | $155,361 |
| Hourly median | $74.69 |
| 10th percentile | $109,477 |
| 25th percentile | $132,419 |
| 75th percentile | $178,303 |
| 90th percentile | $201,245 |
Wages vary widely based on experience, location, and industry.
Tools and Technology
- Graphics or photo imaging software: Adobe Illustrator (hot technology)
- Object or component oriented development software: C++ (hot technology)
- Spreadsheet software: Microsoft Excel (hot technology)
- Office suite software: Microsoft Office software (hot technology)
- Electronic mail software: Microsoft Outlook (hot technology)
- Presentation software: Microsoft PowerPoint (hot technology)
- Word processing software: Microsoft Word (hot technology)
- Object or component oriented development software: Python (hot technology)
Work Environment
The on-the-job environment of cytogenetic technologists reflects the following characteristics:
- Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Time Pressure
- Frequency of Decision Making
How to Become Cytogenetic Technologists
Typical cytogenetic technologists positions require a bachelor’s degree as the typical entry-level education. This career aligns with Considerable Preparation Needed (Job Zone 4), indicating the level of preparation typically expected.
Other Careers to Consider
Similar Occupations
- Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers (Primary-Long)
- Biochemists and Biophysicists (Supplemental)
- Microbiologists (Primary-Long)
- Bioinformatics Scientists (Supplemental)
- Molecular and Cellular Biologists (Primary-Long)
- Geneticists (Supplemental)
- Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (Supplemental)
- Biological Technicians (Primary-Long)
Top Programs to Study For This Career
Students preparing for cytogenetic technologists commonly pursue programs in:
Health Professions and Related Programs
5 programs across 1 majors
Biological and Biomedical Sciences
1 programs across 1 majors
About the Data
This profile draws on the following authoritative sources:
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for employment and wage data by state and industry.
- BLS Employment Projections for total employment and growth forecasts.
- O*NET (Occupational Information Network) for skills, knowledge, tasks, work activities, work context, technology, and education-zone data.
SOC code: 29-2011.01 (Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists).
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