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Cytology Lab Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CommonSpirit Health

Lab Assistant

Woodland, CA

Collect and process specimens Perform Lab Assistant responsibilities in Histopathology and Cytopathology. Process and distribute laboratory reports. General front office responsibilities. * Quality ...

Bannerhealth

Cytology Prep Assistant

Sonora, CA · On-site

Lab Join one of Arizona's leading diagnostic labs at Sonora Quest, where your work directly ... Day Shift 6:00am - 2:30pm Night Shift 8:00pm - 4:30am POSITION SUMMARY Receives Cytology samples ...

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Cytology Lab Assistant information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do cytology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,562 per year, or $20 per hour.

Lab Assistant

Woodland, CA

CommonSpirit Health
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 537 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

453rd of 893 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents

Learn more about CommonSpirit Healthexternal

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Dignity Health Woodland Memorial Hospital is Yolo County’s largest health care provider, serving the community since 1905. Woodland Memorial Hospital is a 108-bed acute care facility offering the most comprehensive range of health care services in Yolo County, including inpatient and outpatient surgical services, family birth center/labor and delivery, emergency services, home health services, palliative care, inpatient mental health services, sleep disorders center and cancer care services. With strong ties to our community, we believe in providing compassionate, high-quality health care to you and your family, close to home. Woodland Memorial Hospital is part of Dignity Health, one of the nation’s largest health care systems with a 22-state network. For more information, please visit our website here at www.dignityhealth.org/woodland.

One Community. One Mission. One California 


As a 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.

  • Adjust work habits to meet age-specific needs of customer/patients.
    Perform phlebotomy for the purpose of specimen collection.
    Perform off-campus phlebotomy "home draws".
  • Perform procedures as written, seeking technologist assistance when appropriate.
    Perform basic patient registration functions.
    Collect and process specimens
    Perform Lab Assistant responsibilities in Histopathology and Cytopathology.
    Process and distribute laboratory reports.
    General front office responsibilities.
  • Quality control and incident reporting.
    Order reagents and supplies
    Follow and complete workstation checklists
    Perform other duties as assigned.
    Assist in the training and orientation of new employees.

Required

  • Phlebotomist: CA, upon hire

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