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Cytogenetics Lab Director Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cytology Technician Jobs

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

Evaluate new test kits/procedures and make recommendations to the Supervisory Cytotechnologist ... Hepatitis B immunization is required for all positions with direct patient contact. Applicants may ...

New

Maintains required documentation for all lab procedures. * Processes requisitions for testing ... HTL), Cytotechnologist, Pathologist Assistant or a minimum of 5 years of direct experience as a ...

Cytogenetics Lab Director information

See Virginia salary details

$57.4K

$120.2K

$183K

How much do cytogenetics lab director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for cytogenetics lab director in Virginia is $120,209.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,300.00 and $131,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cytogenetics lab director?

A Cytogenetics Lab Director is a senior scientist or medical professional responsible for overseeing the operations of a cytogenetics laboratory. They manage laboratory personnel, ensure quality control, and interpret complex genetic test results related to chromosomal abnormalities. Their role also involves maintaining compliance with regulatory standards, developing laboratory protocols, and often collaborating with physicians to guide patient diagnosis and care. Cytogenetics Lab Directors typically have advanced training in genetics, laboratory management, and are often board-certified.

What are some typical challenges faced by a cytogenetics lab director, and how are they addressed?

A Cytogenetics Lab Director often manages challenges such as ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, maintaining quality assurance, and overseeing complex testing workflows. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on oversight can be demanding, especially when implementing new technologies or protocols. Effective directors address these challenges by fostering strong communication within multidisciplinary teams, prioritizing staff training, and staying current with industry best practices and accreditation requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cytogenetics lab director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cytogenetics Lab Director, you need advanced expertise in cytogenetics, laboratory management, and diagnostic interpretation, typically supported by a PhD or MD and board certification (e.g., ABMGG or ASCP). Familiarity with karyotyping, FISH, microarray analysis, and laboratory information systems is essential for overseeing complex genetic testing workflows. Leadership, problem-solving, and excellent communication skills set top candidates apart by fostering effective team collaboration and regulatory compliance. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate test results, maintaining lab accreditation, and advancing patient care.

What is the difference between Cytogenetics Lab Director vs Cytogenetics Technologist?

AspectCytogenetics Lab DirectorCytogenetics Technologist
CredentialsMedical degree or PhD, board certification in genetics or cytogeneticsBachelor's degree in biology or related field, certification as a cytogenetics technologist
Work EnvironmentOversees laboratory operations, manages staff, ensures quality controlPerforms laboratory tests, prepares samples, analyzes cytogenetic data
ResponsibilitiesLeadership, protocol development, regulatory complianceSample processing, slide preparation, data interpretation

The Cytogenetics Lab Director holds a leadership role, overseeing the entire laboratory operations and ensuring quality standards, while the Cytogenetics Technologist focuses on performing laboratory tests and analyzing samples. Both roles require specialized training, but the director typically has advanced degrees and certification, whereas the technologist's role is more hands-on. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in cytogenetics laboratories.

What job categories do people searching Cytogenetics Lab Director jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Cytogenetics Lab Director jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cytogenetics Lab Director jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Cytogenetics Lab Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Cytogenetics Lab Director job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,209 per year, or $57.8 per hour.

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

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Posted 4 days ago


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Job description

Summary
About the Position: This position is located at Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia.
This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
Advanced In-hire may be authorized.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Calibrate, maintain and operate state-of-the-art instruments.
  • Assist in evaluating new test procedures and performing specialized studies.
  • Prepare cellblock specimens for other laboratory sections areas such as Flow Cytometry.
  • Maintain logs and files pertaining to Cytology.
  • Verify that required patient and specimen information is present
  • Maintain the quantity and quality of various stains and reagents used for Cytological procedures.
  • Evaluate new test kits/procedures and make recommendations to the Supervisory Cytotechnologist regarding incorporation into testing protocol.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
  • This position requires the incumbent be able to obtain and maintain a determination of eligibility for a Secret security clearance or access for the duration of employment. A background investigation and credit check are required.
  • All applicants tentatively selected for this position will be required to submit a urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment.
  • This position is subject to a pre-employment screening, and random drug testing, to include testing based on reasonable suspicion and testing due to direct involvement with an on-duty accident.
  • This position has mandatory seasonal Influenza vaccination requirements and is subject to annual seasonal Influenza vaccinations unless otherwise exempted for medical or religious reasons (documentation of exemption must be provided upon hire).
  • Immunization screening is required. Hepatitis B immunization is required for all positions with direct patient contact. Applicants may be required to show proof of other immunizations depending on the type of position.
  • This position requires shift work to provide coverage on evenings, weekends, holidays, or special situations. Employee shifts are rotated on a regularly scheduled basis.
  • This position has been designated Mission Essential. In the event of severe weather conditions or other such emergency type situations, the incumbent is required to report to work or remain at work as scheduled to support mission operations.
  • This position requires that you obtain and maintain a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from, or in accordance with, the American Heart Association and American Red Cross. Advanced certification (e.g., ALS) does not supersede BLS.
  • Lifting up to 45 pounds may be required.
  • This position requires the completion of a pre-employment Physical Examination and an annual examination thereafter to ensure the continued, required level of physical health and ability or fitness to perform the duties of the position.
Qualifications
Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. 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; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes assisting in receiving patient's specimens for staining and/or testing procedures and examining body fluids for abnormalities in cell structure. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-05).
Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience aloneno substitution of education for experience is permitted.
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
  • Male applicants born after December 31, 1959 must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
  • You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • This position requires a 1 year probationary period during which the agency evaluates your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In making this determination, the agency may consider your performance and conduct; agency needs and interests; whether your continued employment supports organizational or Government goals; and whether it promotes the efficiency of the Federal service. Continued employment requires written certification that it advances the public interest.
  • Direct Deposit of Pay is required.
  • Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.
  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
  • Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement.
  • If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the Reemployed Annuitant information sheet.
  • Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized, based on a determination that a PCS move is not in the Government interest.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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