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Cytologist Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Fellowship training in cytopathology is preferred. The successful candidate must have an MD degree (or MD equivalent), a valid Texas medical license (or qualifications to obtain one at the time of ...

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Cytologist information

See Texas salary details

$10.2K

$107.4K

$232.9K

How much do cytologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for cytologist in Texas is $107,411.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $232,900.00 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 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.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Cytologist jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Cytologist jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Cytologist jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Cytologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cytologist jobs in TX? For Cytologist jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Cytologist job openings in Texas as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,411 per year, or $51.6 per hour.
Hospital - Cytologist, Senior

Hospital - Cytologist, Senior

UT Health San Antonio

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


UT Health San Antonio rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

209th of 528 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description
The Hospital Senior Cytologist performs advanced microscopic evaluation of specimens to detect precancerous and malignant conditions. Provides on-site adequacy assessments for most Fine Needle Aspirate (FNA) procedures and applies expertise in cytopreparatory techniques in a hospital setting. Serving as a subject matter expert, the Senior Cytologist supports quality assurance, training, and compliance with CLIA standards, ensuring accurate diagnoses and high-quality patient care. Ensures the team complies with federal and state regulatory standards and follows UT Health San Antonio Multispecialty & Research Hospital policies and procedures.
Responsibilities
  • Perform independent microscopic evaluation of gynecologic, non-gynecologic, and fine needle aspiration (FNA) specimens, providing accurate diagnostic findings and reports using accepted medical terminology.
  • Assess specimen adequacy and quality, providing on-site adequacy evaluations for FNAs and assisting cytopathologists in determining preliminary diagnoses.
  • Render and report final interpretations for negative gynecologic specimens in accordance with regulatory requirements and laboratory protocols.
  • Conduct rescreening of designated quality control and high-risk specimens, ensuring compliance with CAP, CLIA, and hospital standards.
  • Participate in FNA services, including specimen preparation, slide staining, adequacy assessments, and continuous improvement of procedural workflows.
  • Collaborate with physicians and clinical staff on specimen triage, collection techniques, and diagnostic support.
  • Lead quality assurance and quality control initiatives by collecting, analyzing, and reporting data; maintain laboratory records, workload information, and compliance documentation.
  • Oversee cytology laboratory operations, including instrument maintenance, reagent preparation, supply inventory, and ordering systems.
  • Develop, write, and update laboratory procedures to ensure compliance with CAP and CLIA guidelines.
  • Train, mentor, and supervise cytotechnologists and new employees; provide guidance in advanced cytology techniques and professional development.
  • Contribute to laboratory management activities, including staff supervision, process improvement, and regulatory readiness.
  • Perform other related duties as required to support laboratory and hospital goals.

Qualifications
  • Advanced analytic skills in cytologic diagnosis, specimen evaluation, and testing methodologies.
  • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities in a fast-paced hospital environment.
  • Proven ability to work independently and support physicians by providing accurate, timely cytologic findings.
  • In-depth knowledge of College of American Pathologists (CAP) and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) regulations.
  • Expertise in quality control and quality assurance principles, practices, and tools.
  • Proficiency in writing and updating laboratory procedures in compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Demonstrated ability to train, mentor, and guide associate and intermediate cytotechnologists in cytology techniques and best practices.
  • Skilled in fostering collaboration and cooperation within multidisciplinary teams.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

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