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Cytology Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cytology Technician

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

Duties Help Calibrate, maintain and operate state-of-the-art instruments. Assist in evaluating new ... Maintain logs and files pertaining to Cytology. Verify that required patient and specimen ...

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Cytology Assistant information

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How much do cytology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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 a cytology assistant?

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?

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.

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.

How many years does it take to become a cytology assistant?

Becoming a cytology assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or a certificate program that can last from a few months to a year. Most positions do not require a college degree, but relevant coursework or certification in cytology or medical assisting can improve job prospects.
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Infographic showing various Cytology Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% 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 Technologist

University of Miami

Miami, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 12 days ago


University Of Miami rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

262nd of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Current Employees:

If you are a current Staff, Faculty or Temporary employee at the University of Miami, please click here to log in to Workday to use the internal application process. To learn how to apply for a faculty or staff position, please review this tip sheet.

The UHealth Laboratories, Anatomic Pathology Operations Department is seeking a Cytology Technologist to work full-time, on-site in Miami, FL. The Cytotechnologist is responsible for the microscopic evaluation of cytology specimens to detect cellular abnormalities, including precancerous, cancerous, and infectious conditions. This role requires strong attention to detail, adherence to regulatory standards, and the ability to work collaboratively within the laboratory team to ensure high-quality patient care.

Key Responsibilities

  • Screen and interpret cytology specimens(gynecologic and non-gynecologic) using established diagnostic criteria.

  • Identify abnormal or atypical cellsand refer cases to the pathologist as required by laboratory protocols.

  • Evaluate cytology slides, ensuring optimal specimen quality.

  • Review, document, and report findings accurately in the LIS.

  • Assist with FNA procedures, including specimen collection, adequacy assessments, and slide preparation.

  • Maintain compliance withCAP, CLIA, and state regulations.

  • Participate incytology QC/QA programs, including rescreens, proficiency testing, and continuing education.

  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot cytology instruments and equipment.

  • Adhere to all safety, infection control, and confidentiality policies.

This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities as necessary.

Education:

Bachelor's degree in relevant field required

Completion of an accredited Cytotechnology program.

Certification and Licensing:

Valid State of Florida Clinical Laboratory Technologist license required

Experience:

Minimum 1 year of relevant experience required

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience screening both GYN and non-GYN cytology cases.

  • Experience assisting with or interpreting FNA adequacy assessments.

  • Familiarity with molecular testing workflows (e.g.,HPV, ThyroSeq, etc.).

  • Strong computer skills and experience using laboratory information systems.

Skills & Competencies

  • Excellent microscopic evaluation skills

  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy

  • Ability to work independently and manage workload efficiently

  • Strong communication and teamwork abilities

  • Commitment to quality, compliance, and patient care

DEPARTMENT ADDENDUM

Department Specific Functions

  • Perform microscopic evaluation and interpretation of gynecologic and non-gynecologic cytology specimens, including fine needle aspiration (FNA) material, body fluids, and exfoliative samples.

  • Conduct primary screening and rescreening of cytology slides in compliance with hospital policies, CAP guidelines, CLIA regulations, and state requirements.

  • Provide Rapid On-Site Evaluation (ROSE) for FNA procedures using telecytology platforms in collaboration with pathologists, including real-time slide review, specimen triage, and communication of adequacy assessments to procedural teams.

  • Prepare, stain, and assess cytology specimens using appropriate manual and automated techniques.

  • Accurately document findings, adequacy assessments, and results in the laboratory information system (LIS) within established turnaround times.

  • Correlate cytologic findings with clinical information, imaging, and histopathologic findings when available.

  • Identify, escalate, and appropriately communicate abnormal, suspicious, or malignant findings in accordance with departmental and institutional protocols.

  • Participate in quality assurance and quality control activities, including discrepancy review, proficiency testing, and continuous performance improvement initiatives.

  • Ensure compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards, including CAP, CLIA, and hospital policies.

  • Maintain compliance with laboratory safety, infection control, and specimen handling requirements.

  • Collaborate with pathologists, clinicians, radiology, endoscopy, and laboratory staff to support high-quality patient care.

  • Support departmental initiatives such as workflow optimization, validation of systems, and implementation of new technologies or testing protocols.

The University of Miami offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, tuition remission and more.

UHealth-University of Miami Health System, South Florida's only university-based health system, provides leading-edge patient care powered by the ground breaking research and medical education at the Miller School of Medicine. As an academic medical center, we are proud to serve South Florida, Latin America and the Caribbean. Our physicians represent more than 100 specialties and sub-specialties, and have more than one million patient encounters each year. Our tradition of excellence has earned worldwide recognition for outstanding teaching, research and patient care. We're the challenge you've been looking for.

The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law.

Job Status:

Full time

Employee Type:

Staff

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About University of Miami

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Miami, located in the beautiful Coral Gables, Florida, is a comprehensive, private research institution in the United States. Operating within the higher education industry, the institution offers a multitude of degree programs spanning over 180 majors and program through its 12 colleges. The University was founded in 1925 with the mission to disseminate knowledge, transform lives, and change the world - a mission it has held faithfully to this day. Notably, the University of Miami has gained global recognition for its commitment to research and innovation, with over $324 million in research and sponsored project funding awarded annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Coral Gables, FL, US

Year founded

1925