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Cytology Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... assist in diagnosing benign, malignant, microbiologic, viral, and other pathological conditions ... Cytology, Cytotechnologist, Cytotechnician, Cytopathology, Specimen Processing, Fine Needle ...

Maintain in-depth knowledge of cytologic criteria and keep abreast of current developments in the field of cytology. * Assist with the collection of fine needle aspirations and other specimens as ...

... assist in diagnosing benign, malignant, microbiologic, viral, and other pathological conditions ... Cytology, Cytotechnologist, Cytotechnician, Cytopathology, Specimen Processing, Fine Needle ...

Cytologist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$31.56 - $43.85/hr

Maintain in-depth knowledge of cytologic criteria and keep abreast of current developments in the field of cytology. * Assist with the collection of fine needle aspirations and other specimens as ...

Cytologist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$31.56 - $43.85/hr

Maintain in-depth knowledge of cytologic criteria and keep abreast of current developments in the field of cytology. * Assist with the collection of fine needle aspirations and other specimens as ...

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Cytology Assistant information

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How much do cytology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for cytology assistant in the United States is $20.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cytology Assistant vs Histology Technician?

AspectCytology AssistantHistology Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferredHigh school diploma; certification or associate degree often required
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, assisting with slide preparation and specimen handlingLaboratories, preparing tissue samples for microscopic examination
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, research labs, pathology labs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and job dutiesComparing job responsibilities and credentials

Both Cytology Assistants and Histology Technicians work in laboratory settings within healthcare and research industries. While Cytology Assistants focus on preparing and handling cytology specimens, Histology Technicians specialize in tissue sample processing. They share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but their specific duties differ based on the type of specimens they handle.

What are cytology assistants and what do they do?

Cytology assistants are laboratory professionals who support cytotechnologists and pathologists by preparing and processing specimens for microscopic examination. They handle tasks such as labeling, accessioning, and staining slides, as well as ensuring specimens are properly prepared for analysis. Cytology assistants play a crucial role in the early detection of diseases like cancer by ensuring samples are accurately and efficiently processed. Their work helps streamline the diagnostic workflow in cytology labs, allowing specialists to focus on the detailed evaluation of cell samples.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cytology Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cytology Assistant, you need a solid background in laboratory procedures, specimen preparation, and a high school diploma or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), microscope operation, and specimen labeling protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure accurate specimen handling, support efficient laboratory workflow, and maintain patient safety.

What are some typical challenges faced by Cytology Assistants in their daily workflow?

Cytology Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of specimen processing while maintaining strict attention to detail and accuracy. Balancing quick turnaround times with the need to adhere to laboratory protocols and quality standards can be demanding, especially during peak periods. Additionally, Cytology Assistants must effectively communicate with pathologists, cytotechnologists, and other laboratory staff to ensure specimens are correctly labeled and processed, minimizing the risk of errors. Adapting to evolving laboratory technologies and procedures is also a key part of the role.
More about Cytology Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Cytology Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Cytology Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cytology jobs? The most popular types of Cytology jobs are:
What states have the most Cytology Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Cytology Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cytology Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,113 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Cytology Assistant - FT - Day - Danbury

Cytology Assistant - FT - Day - Danbury

Northwell Health

Danbury, CT

$19.54 - $37.94/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Northwell Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 562 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

132nd of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Description

Northwell is the largest not-for-profit health system in the Northeast, serving residents of New York and Connecticut with 28 hospitals, more than 1,000 outpatient facilities, 22,000 nurses and over 20,000 physicians. Northwell cares for more than three million people annually in the New York metro area, including Long Island, the Hudson Valley, Connecticut and beyond, thanks to philanthropic support from our communities. Northwell is New York State’s largest private employer with over 104,000 employees — including members of Northwell Health Physician Partners — who are working to change health care for the better. 


Summary:

Under the guidance of the Cytotechnologist, prepares cytology specimens including the STAT Fine Needle Aspirations done in conjunction with the Radiology Department, for analysis for diagnosis by cytotechnologists and pathologists. This position allows the cytotechnologist to spend their time screening rather than preparing specimens thereby improving turn around time (TAT), resulting in greater customer satisfaction.

Responsibilities:

1. Prepare STAT Fine Needle Aspiration specimens (in conjunction with Radiology) utilizing various staining protocols and preparation techniques to expedite the diagnosis and enhance Customer satisfaction.
2. Prepare NON-GYN specimens utilizing concentration techniques to ensure the best possible smears, Thinprep slides and cell blocks for optimal diagnosis.
3. Precisely accession (register if necessary into Invision and/or Cerner) all GYN cytology specimens, verify patient & physician demographics, clinical information and pertinent history to ensure accurate information for testing and billing.
4. Modify GYN work practice by identifying probable unsatisfactory Thinprep specimens and reprocessing them immediately, saving both supplies and tech screening time, improving TAT and Customer Satisfaction.
5. Process, stain and coverslip all specimens utilizing automated equipment, maintaining and troubleshooting such equipment as necessary to preclude costly service calls.
6. Deliver DIGENE cases by physician request or reflex testing and have them registered for Immunology testing.
7. Communicates with physicians' offices and clinics, handling requests for information and/or supplies.
8. Performs clerical tasks as needed including computer data entry, faxing reports, compiling section statistics, answering telephones and filing slides and requisitions accurately.
9. Maintain inventory of supplies, placing orders as necessary to ensure uninterrupted workflow and avoiding costly rush orders.
10. Compiles slides, reports and patient release forms for outgoing consultations, expediting patient diagnosis. Collects slides for Pathology Resident review as part of their ongoing education.
11. Fulfills all compliance responsibilities related to the position.
12. Performs other duties as assigned.

Education Skills Experience:

HS GRAD/EQUIVALENT

Other Information:

Required: High School Diploma

 Minimum Experience: six months.

Data entry required. Excellent listening and comprehension skills. Perform multiple concurrent and repetitive tasks with frequent interruptions.
Desired: Strong computer skills.

Working Conditions:

Manual: significant manual skills/motor coord & finger dexterity

Occupational: Some occupational risk

Physical Effort: Very Heavy effort. May exert up to 50 lbs. force

Physical Environment: Some exposure to dirt, odors, noise, human waste, etc.

Company: Danbury Hospital

Org Unit: 124

Department: Cytology

Exempt: No

Salary Range: $19.54 - $37.94 Hourly


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