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Cytologist Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Cytologist information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$10.1K

$105.7K

$229.3K

How much do cytologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for cytologist in Rochester, MN is $105,732.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $229,300.00 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 popular job titles related to Cytologist jobs in Rochester, MN? For Cytologist jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cytologist jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Cytologist jobs in Rochester, MN are:
Infographic showing various Cytologist job openings in Rochester, MN as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,732 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Cytotechnologist - Cytology Core Lab

Cytotechnologist - Cytology Core Lab

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 671 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Description
Cytotechnologists are responsible for the screening and reporting of negative gynecological and non-gynecological cytology cases, and identifying and referring abnormal cases to the pathologists. May perform quality control activities. Will assist in the training and evaluation of cytotechnology students. May participate in additional activities in the lab that may include but are not limited to: performing digital image analysis, FISH techniques, and/or tissue review. Serve as a member of the Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Team providing on site adequacy evaluation of FNA procedures. Provide technical advice and coverage to the preparation and processing area during times of short staffing in that area. Assist cytology specialists and management personnel with the gathering of data relevant to quality assurance activities, continuous improvement activities and/or special projects.
Visit the Clinical Labs career site to watch a brief video of Ashley describing a role as a Cytotechnologist at Mayo Clinic.
**Individuals hired to this position are required to complete 2 years in this position before becoming eligible to transfer to other positions within Mayo Clinic**
This position is not eligible for sponsorship/ we will not sponsor or transfer visas for this position. Also, Mayo Clinic DOES NOT participate in the F-1 STEM OPT extension program.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Cytotechnology or Bachelor's degree with completion of an accredited Cytotechnology program. A skills assessment test will be administered at the time of interview, and a PASS score is required to be considered. Requires experience using databases, spreadsheets, and word processing software. Possess good written and oral communication skills, the ability to prioritize work, manage time wisely and adjust to changes in work volumes and projects.Cytologist (CT, ASCP) or Specialist in Cytology (SCT, ASCP) certification required prior to start date. Employee obtaining CT certification(s) after January 1, 2004 or SCT certification after January 1, 2006 will be required to demonstrate evidence of ongoing maintenance of certification.
ALL MUST be included for your application to be considered:
• CV/Resume
• Cover Letter
• Transcripts (unofficial copy accepted)
• Internal candidates must provide their past performance appraisals
For international/foreign trained applicants, it is the responsibility of the applicant to provide Mayo Clinic the following transcript information in your application:
• MUST have a DETAILED equivalency evaluation
The applicant is responsible for the cost associated with obtaining the equivalency evaluation.
• MUST show US equivalent degree
• Evaluation MUST be completed from an organization listed as a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) www.naces.org OR the Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE) www.aice-eval.org
About Us
Why Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.
Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

About the Team
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is.
Equal Opportunity
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the "EOE is the Law". Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919