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Cytologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cytologist

Peoria, IL · On-site

$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 ...

New

Cytologist

Peoria, IL · On-site

$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 ...

New

Cytologist

Urbana, IL · On-site

$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 ...

CYTOLOGIST

Evanston, IL · On-site

$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 ...

CYTOLOGIST

Evanston, IL · On-site

$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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Cytologist information

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$11K

$115.3K

$250K

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.
What cities are hiring for Cytologist jobs? Cities with the most Cytologist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cytologist jobs? The most popular types of Cytologist jobs are:
What states have the most Cytologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Cytologist jobs include:
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.
Cytotechnologist / Cytologist - Hospital

Cytotechnologist / Cytologist - Hospital

Atrium Health

Charlotte, NC • On-site

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Atrium Health rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 617 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

189th of 880 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Details
Client Name
Atrium Health - CHS Core Labs
Job Type
Permanent
Offering
Allied
Profession
Cytotechnologist / Cytologist
Specialty
Hospital
Job ID
18471743
Job Title
Cytotechnologist / Cytologist - Hospital
Shift Details
Shift
5x8 Rotating
Scheduled Hours
40
Job Order Details
Start Date
05/11/2026
Duration
0
Client Details
Address
5040 Airport Center Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28208, United States
City
Charlotte
State
NC
Zip Code
28208
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Equal Employment Opportunity:
Pride-Health is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of the race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, reproductive health decision making, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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About Atrium Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Atrium Health is one of the nation's leading healthcare organizations, connecting patients with on-demand care, world-class specialists and the region's largest primary care network. A recognized leader in healthcare delivery, quality and innovation, our foundation rests on providing clinically excellent and compassionate care. We've been serving our community since 1940, when we opened our doors as Charlotte Memorial Hospital. Since then, our network has grown to include more than 40 hospitals and 900 care locations ranging from doctors' offices to behavioral health centers to nursing homes. Our focus: Delivering the highest quality patient care, supporting medical research and education, and joining with partners outside our walls to keep our community healthy.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1940