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Cytologist Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Cytology-Ref Lab Work Shift: Evening Job Category: Lab Join one of Arizona's leading diagnostic labs at Sonora Quest, where your work directly supports life-saving medical testing and patient care.

Cytology Prep Tech

Tempe, AZ

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

Cytology-Ref Lab Work Shift: Evening Job Category: Lab Join one of Arizona's leading diagnostic labs at Sonora Quest, where your work directly supports life-saving medical testing and patient care.

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Showing results 1-20

Cytologist information

See Arizona salary details

$10.3K

$107.4K

$233K

How much do cytologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for cytologist in Arizona is $107,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $233,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cytologist?

A cytologist, also called a cytotechnologist, analyzes slides of human cells under a microscope. In this career, you analyze a cell and check to see if it is abnormal; this includes looking for cancer or infection. Your responsibilities include analyzing cells from skin, the reproductive tract, digestive tract, or other areas of the body, prepare the slides and screen the specimen for bacteria or viruses, and document your findings. These may include pre-cancerous cells, inflamed tissue, or infectious diseases. While your work is crucial to determining the diagnosis for the patient, you do not diagnose the problem; you report your findings to a pathologist for the final analysis and diagnosis.

What are some common challenges faced by cytologists when interpreting complex cell samples?

Cytologists often encounter challenges such as distinguishing between benign, atypical, and malignant cells, especially in samples with overlapping features or poor preservation. Maintaining accuracy under time constraints and managing a high volume of slides can also be demanding. Collaboration with pathologists and clinicians is crucial to ensure correct diagnoses, and ongoing education helps cytologists stay updated on evolving diagnostic criteria and technologies.

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

To thrive as a Cytologist, you need expertise in cellular biology, specimen preparation, and microscopic analysis, typically supported by a degree in cytotechnology or a related field and professional certification such as ASCP. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), automated imaging tools, and advanced staining techniques is essential. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accurately interpreting results and conveying findings to healthcare teams. These skills ensure precise diagnoses, early detection of diseases, and effective collaboration in clinical laboratory settings.

What is the difference between Cytologist vs Histotechnologist?

AspectCytologistHistotechnologist
CredentialsTypically requires a Bachelor's degree in Cytotechnology or related field, certification (such as ASCP)Requires a Bachelor's degree in Histotechnology or related field, certification (such as ASCP)
Work EnvironmentLaboratories analyzing cell samples, often in hospitals or diagnostic labsLaboratories preparing tissue samples for examination, often in hospitals or research facilities
Industry UsageUsed in pathology labs for cancer diagnosis and disease detectionUsed in pathology labs for tissue processing and diagnosis

Both Cytologists and Histotechnologists work in pathology labs and require similar certifications. While Cytologists focus on analyzing cell samples for abnormalities, Histotechnologists prepare tissue samples for microscopic examination. Their roles complement each other in diagnostic laboratories, but they specialize in different sample types and procedures.

Are cytologists in high demand?

Cytologists are in steady demand due to their specialized role in diagnosing diseases through cell analysis, often working in hospitals, laboratories, or clinics. The field is expected to grow as healthcare needs increase and advanced diagnostic techniques become more prevalent.

How much do cytologists make?

Cytologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and certification. Salaries can range from approximately $50,000 for entry-level positions to over $100,000 for experienced professionals or those working in specialized settings. Certification and advanced skills in microscopy and laboratory techniques can influence earning potential.

What does a cytologist do for a living?

A cytologist examines cells under a microscope to detect diseases such as cancer. They analyze samples like blood, tissue, or bodily fluids, often working in laboratories and using specialized staining techniques. Cytologists typically require certification and have strong attention to detail to identify abnormal cell changes accurately.

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Cytologist jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Cytologist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Cytologist jobs in AZ?

For Cytologist jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cytologist job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $107,438 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Cytotech or Cytotechnologist or Cytologist or Cytology Tech in Arizona (New Grads Welcome)

KA Recruiting Inc.

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Looking for a new Cytology Tech job? My name is Leah and I'm a healthcare recruiter, I'm here to help!

I have an awesome Cytology Tech role available near Tucson, Arizona! New Grads Welcome.

Details
- Full-time and permanent
- Shift: Discussed during interview
- Opportunities for growth
- Full, comprehensive benefits package (PTO, health insurance, life insurance, 401k, etc)

Requirements
- College degree
- ASCP cert
- Prior experience

Click apply or email your resume to leah@ka-recruiting.com/call or text 617-746-2751! You can also schedule a time to chat here -https://calendly.com/leahkarecruiting/10min.

REF#LM3786