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Cytology Lab Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mercy General Hospital

Lab Assistant

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$33.40 - $37.69/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As our Lab Assistant, you will play a crucial role in solving ... Picks up and transports tissue and cytology specimens from the operating rooms and nursing units ...

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Cytology Lab Assistant information

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$10

$19

$29

How much do cytology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cytology lab assistant in California is $19.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cytology lab assistant do?

A Cytology Lab Assistant supports cytotechnologists and pathologists by preparing and processing biological samples, such as cells from body fluids, for microscopic examination. They are responsible for labeling specimens, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring that all samples are handled and stored properly. Additionally, they may assist with record keeping, data entry, and maintaining a clean and safe laboratory environment. This role is essential for helping pathologists diagnose diseases like cancer by providing high-quality samples for analysis.

What are some common challenges faced by cytology lab assistants, and how can they be managed?

Cytology Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining accuracy while handling high specimen volumes and adhering to strict turnaround times. Managing these challenges involves staying organized, double-checking specimen labeling, and following established laboratory protocols meticulously. Effective communication with cytotechnologists and pathologists is also essential to ensure that any discrepancies or urgent cases are addressed promptly. Continuous learning about new laboratory technologies and procedures can further enhance efficiency and reduce errors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cytology lab assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cytology Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, specimen handling, and a high school diploma or associate’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), microscopes, and specimen staining techniques is typically expected. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate sample processing, minimize errors, and support efficient lab operations crucial for reliable diagnostic results.

What is the difference between Cytology Lab Assistant vs Histology Lab Technician?

AspectCytology Lab AssistantHistology Lab Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification preferredHigh school diploma; additional histology certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings focused on cell analysis, often in hospitals or clinicsLaboratories performing tissue processing and slide preparation, typically in hospitals or research labs
Job DutiesAssist in preparing cytology specimens, label slides, and maintain lab equipmentProcess tissue samples, embed, section, and prepare slides for microscopic examination

Both roles support laboratory operations in healthcare settings, with Cytology Lab Assistants focusing on cell samples and Histology Lab Technicians handling tissue specimens. While their tasks differ, they share similar credentials and work environments, making them closely related roles in pathology labs.

What are popular job titles related to Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in California?

For Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cytology Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cytology Lab Assistant job openings:

Cytology Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cytology Lab Assistant job openings in California 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 $41,562 per year, or $20 per hour.

Lab Assistant

Mercy General Hospital

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$33.40 - $37.69/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities

As our Lab Assistant, you will play a crucial role in solving diagnostic mysteries, bringing us one step closer to effectively treating patient illnesses and injuries.
Every day you will utilize your expertise and our advanced technology to precisely collect, prepare, and process a diverse range of patient specimens (blood, urine, tissue, etc.) for various diagnostic tests.
To be successful in this role, you will possess a foundational understanding of laboratory procedures, demonstrate meticulous attention to detail, and maintain an eager commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

  • Picks up and transports tissue and cytology specimens from the operating rooms and nursing units, ensuring that the requisition slip matches the label.
  • Logs the receipt of all tissue and cytology specimens indicating all consultations, frozens, grosses, cytologies, and sendouts on the log 94-97% of the time.
  • Prepares tissue specimens for examination by Pathologist or P.A. by 1000, 1400, and 1630 90-95% of the time, assisting by numbering, weighing, wrapping and filing specimens, with no more than 3-5 cases misaccessioned per year.
  • Disposes of old tissue specimens according to established schedule and following all safety regulations, with no more than one safety violation per year.
  • Prepares fluids and other specimens as needed for outside testing, following up with uncompleted clinical data to ensure that the Pathology report has complete information 94-97% of the time.
  • Starts decalcification process and fixes specimens as needed, neutralizing used decal solutions in the fume hood using proper safety techniques, with no more than one safety violation per year.
Job Requirements

Required

  • High School Graduate General Studies.
  • One (1) year experience as a Laboratory/Pathology Assistant.
Where You'll Work

Founded in 1925, Dignity Health - Mercy General Hospital is a 310-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located in Sacramento, California. Serving over 100,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including heart care, cancer care, women’s health, and neurology. Additionally, Mercy General Hospital has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation and a Joint Commission-certified Primary Stroke Center.

One Community. One Mission. One California 

Qualifications:

Required

  • High School Graduate General Studies.
  • One (1) year experience as a Laboratory/Pathology Assistant.
Employment Type: Seasonal/Casual/OnCall/Supplemental

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