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Cytologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Endeavor Health

Cytologist

Chicago, IL

$35.16 - $54.50/hr

Cytologist * Location: Swedish Hospital * Full Time/Part Time: Full Time * Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm What you will do: * Oversee daily operations within the assigned laboratory section ...

Sentara Healthcare

Cytologist

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is hiring a Cytologist to work full time days in the Cytology Lab. Sign on bonus up to 20,000 for qualified candidates! Join our team, where we are committed to ...

Endeavor Health

Cytologist

Flushing, NY

$35.16 - $54.50/hr

Cytologist * Location: Swedish Hospital * Full Time/Part Time: Full Time * Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm What you will do: * Oversee daily operations within the assigned laboratory section ...

Carle Health

Cytologist

Peoria, IL

$34.51 - $59.36/hr

The Cytologist participates in specialized and complex technical tasks involved in the processing and screening of cytologic specimens to detect evidence of cancer or other pathological conditions ...

Carle Health

Cytologist

Urbana, IL

$34.51 - $59.36/hr

Cytologist (CT) within 1 year - American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), Education: Bachelor's Degree: Science and Certificate of Completion: Cytotechnology; Responsibilities Participate in ...

Carle Health

Cytologist

Peoria, IL

$34.51 - $59.36/hr

The Cytologist participates in specialized and complex technical tasks involved in the processing and screening of cytologic specimens to detect evidence of cancer or other pathological conditions ...

Endeavor Health

CYTOLOGIST

Evanston, IL

$35.16 - $54.50/hr

Cytotechnologist/Cytologist, CT(ASCP) certification or eligible (within the first year of employment if new graduate). * Unique or Preferred Skills: Demonstrates advanced knowledge of traditional and ...

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How much do cytologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for cytologist in the United States is $115,291.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $250,000.00 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 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.
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Cytologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cytologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $115,291 per year, or $55.4 per hour.
Cytologist

Cytologist

University of Kansas Health System

Kansas City, KS

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

University Of Kansas Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 173 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 880 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Position Title
Cytologist
Days - Full Time
Bell Hospital
Position Summary / Career Interest:
M-F 8am - 4:30pm
A Cytotechnologist microscopically examines gynecologic and non-gynecologic specimens for cancerous/pre- cancerous cells and other pathologic findings. Assists in obtaining diagnostic quality samples and provides feedback on fine needle aspiration procedures.
Responsibilities and Essential Job Functions
  • Assists with data entry and cytopreparation as needed due to staffing. -
  • Assists with fine needle aspiration collection and adequacy, maximizing cellular recovery and preservation.
  • Disposes of biohazardous material, chemical waste, sharps and other potentially hazardous materials according to policy.
  • Evaluates and/or determines proper technical procedure for cytopreparation as needed.
  • Participates in continuing education and maintains CT board certification as required by the ASCP through the Certification Maintenance Program (CMP). (Applies to - cytotechnologists certified January 2004 and after.)
  • Participates in quality assurance and quality improvement activities. -
  • Performs 5-year reviews, 10% re-screens, and other quality assurance procedures given appropriate experience level.
  • Prepares cytopathology reports using recognized terminology. These reports shall be directly entered into the computer or onto worksheets for review by the pathologist.
  • Screens all types of cytologic specimens (gynecologic, non-gynecologic and fine needle aspirations) accurately and timely. Provides direct and indirect diagnostic - interpretations and then forwards cases for pathologist review.
  • Uses and wears PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) as necessary to perform job duties safely and minimize risk.
  • Must be able to perform the professional, clinical and or technical competencies of the assigned unit or department.
  • These statements are intended to describe the essential functions of the job and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. Skills and duties may vary dependent upon your department or unit. Other duties may be assigned as required.

Required Education and Experience
  • Bachelor of Science
  • High School Graduate
  • Cytotechnology Technical/Professional training

Preferred Education and Experience
  • 1 or more years working as a cytotechnologist

Required Licensure and Certification
  • Cytologist (CT) - American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP) Registered or eligible upon Hire

Preferred Licensure and Certification
  • Specialist in Cytology(SCT) - American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP)

Time Type:
Full time
Job Requisition ID:
R-47660
Important information for you to know as you apply:
  • The health system is an equal employment opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally-protected status. See also Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
  • The health system provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need to request reasonable accommodations for your disability as you navigate the recruitment process, please let our recruiters know by requesting an Accommodation Request form using this link asktalentacquisition@kumc.edu.
  • Employment with the health system is contingent upon, among other things, agreeing to the health-system-dispute-resolution-program.pdf and signing the agreement to the DRP.

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About University of Kansas Health System

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Operating within the healthcare industry, The University of Kansas Health System is a renowned medical institution located in Kansas City, KS, United States. Established in 1905, this not-for-profit health system has evolved to offer an extensive range of products and services, which spans across a variety of specialist areas such as cancer care, neurology, cardiology, and organ transplants, among others. The core mission of The University of Kansas Health System is to enhance the health and wellness of individuals and communities by providing world-class healthcare services, quality education and conducting advanced research. They are also known for their unwavering commitment to academic medicine, which sets them apart from their peers.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, KS, US

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