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Cytologist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

This role is ideal for experienced professionals with expertise in cytology and pathology workflows. This role is well-suited for experienced cytotechnologists looking to apply and expand their ...

Cytotechnologist

Jasper, IN · On-site

$30.38 - $45.57/hr

This role is ideal for experienced professionals with expertise in cytology and pathology workflows. This role is well-suited for experienced cytotechnologists looking to apply and expand their ...

Cytotechnologist

Evansville, IN · On-site

$30.38 - $45.57/hr

This role is ideal for experienced professionals with expertise in cytology and pathology workflows. This role is well-suited for experienced cytotechnologists looking to apply and expand their ...

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Cytologist information

See Indiana salary details

$10.5K

$109.7K

$237.9K

How much do cytologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for cytologist in Indiana is $109,707.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,200.00 and $237,900.00 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 cytologists?

Cytologists are laboratory professionals who specialize in the study of cells to detect abnormalities, such as cancer and infections. They analyze cell samples from various body sites under a microscope to identify changes in cell structure and function. Cytologists play a crucial role in early disease detection, especially in cancer screening programs like the Pap smear. They work closely with pathologists and other healthcare professionals to ensure accurate diagnoses. Their expertise helps guide treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes.

How much do cytologists make a year?

Cytologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and workplace. Salaries can vary based on certifications, specialized skills, and the healthcare setting, such as hospitals or laboratories.

How many years does it take to become a cytotechnologist?

Becoming a cytotechnologist typically requires completing a bachelor's degree in cytotechnology or a related field, which takes about four years. Afterward, candidates often need to complete a one-year accredited cytotechnology training program and obtain certification, totaling approximately five to six years of education and training.

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.

What does a cytologist do for a living?

A cytologist examines cells from body tissues and fluids to detect diseases such as cancer. They analyze samples under microscopes, prepare slides, and may work in laboratories or hospitals, often requiring specialized training and certification. Their work helps in diagnosing medical conditions accurately and efficiently.

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 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.

How do you become a cytologist?

To become a cytologist, one typically needs to earn a bachelor's degree in biology, health sciences, or a related field, followed by completing a histotechnology or cytotechnology program accredited by a recognized agency. Certification from organizations such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is often required or preferred, and some states may have licensing requirements. Cytologists usually gain experience through on-the-job training in clinical laboratories and must stay current with advances in diagnostic techniques and tools.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cytologist jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Cytologist jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Cytologist jobs in Indiana? For Cytologist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Cytologist jobs in IN? For Cytologist jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Cytologist job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $109,707 per year, or $52.7 per hour.
Cytologist II - Cytopathology

Cytologist II - Cytopathology

Indiana University Health

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Indiana University Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 459 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

329th of 885 rated healthcare providers


Job description


Indiana University Health is Indiana's most comprehensive health system, with 16 hospitals and more than 34,000 team members serving Hoosiers across the state. We're looking for team members who are inspired by challenging and meaningful work for the good of every patient. People who are compassionate and serve with a purpose. People who aspire to excellence every day.
The laboratories of IU Health offer some of the most comprehensive laboratory services in Indiana! Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the laboratories perform more than 19 million tests a year. In addition to IU Health, laboratory testing services are provided to hospitals and physicians across the country.
SHIFT: Full-Time, Days
Location: IUHMG M-Pathology Lab
The Cytotechnologist II serves as a shift lead and provides a higher level of technical skills and knowledge. Acts as a key resource person for staff both inside and outside of the department. Assumes the responsibility for more complex work assignments and acts as resource for students in cytology. Prepares and stains clinical specimens (gynecological and non-gynecological) and microscopically evaluates them, using independent judgment to interpret minute cellular differences which indicate the presence or absence of malignant or pre-malignant changes. Assists the pathologist or attending physician performing complicated medical procedures to collect body substances (such as fine needle aspirations). Participates in research and development activities. May act as cytology general supervisor.
  • Bachelor degree in Cytotechnology or related field of science required.
  • 3 or more years of Cytotechnology experience required.
  • Registered (ASCP; AMT; NCA; or equivalent) Cytotechnology required.
  • Requires proficiency at computer entry/retrieval of lab results.
  • Requires ability to perform mentally demanding; repetitive tasks.
  • Requires in-depth knowledge of anatomy; histology; benign and abnormal cytology of all body sites.
  • Requires ability to utilize independent judgment in generating test results.
  • Requires analytical skills to interpret cellular samples from all body sites.
  • Requires the ability to maintain accuracy and efficiency in completing patient tests; recording and reporting test results.
  • Requires knowledge of various complex and lengthy laboratory techniques and procedures.

As Indiana's largest and most comprehensive healthcare system, and the number 1 ranked healthcare system in Indiana, we offer:
  • Increased pay scale for bedside nurses.
  • 401(K) retirement savings with employer match
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Student loan forgiveness - Government program that may allow qualifying participants to have the remainder of their student loan balance forgiven (after a set amount of time and specific qualifications have been met).
  • Employee Assistance Program - Counseling at no cost to you
  • Healthy Results - Participation in our team member wellness programs award points that contribute toward a biweekly financial incentive in your paycheck! The more you participate, the more you earn!

About Us
  • Indiana University Health has nearly 40,000 team members, including more than 3,600 physicians and 1,200 advanced practice providers, and we're home to the largest nursing network in Indiana with more than 9,000 nursing team members at over 800 sites of care.
  • IU Health is ranked No. 1 in Indiana by U.S. News & World Report, Riley Children's Health is ranked among the top children's hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report.
  • A unique partnership with the Indiana University School of Medicine - one of the nation's largest medical schools - gives patients access to groundbreaking research and innovative treatments, and it offers team members access to the latest science and the very best training - advancing healthcare for all.
  • With 15 hospitals, including seven with Magnet designation and eight with Pathways to Excellence designation, our team members are leading the way through excellence.
  • At Indiana University Health, your personal and professional growth is a top priority. You will have access to many diverse opportunities to learn and develop in meaningful ways that matter most to you, such as advanced clinical training, leadership development, promotion opportunities and cross training development.
  • Indiana University Health is invested in the lives of Hoosiers, leading the transformation of healthcare to make Indiana one of the nation's healthiest states.

About the Team
Indiana University Health is Indiana's most comprehensive health system, with 15 hospitals and nearly 40,000 team members serving Hoosiers across the state. We're looking for team members who are inspired by challenging and meaningful work for the good of every patient. People who are compassionate and serve with a purpose. People who aspire to excellence every day.

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