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Cytology Lab Assistant Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

... ELISA, flow-cytometry, ELISpot assay, or qPCR) to analyze the effectiveness of different ... Manage the lab's social media and outreach activities. * Work in coordination with other lab staff ...

Cytology Lab Assistant information

See Kansas salary details

$9

$18

$26

How much do cytology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for cytology lab assistant in Kansas is $18.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $20.58 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 Kansas?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Cytology Lab Assistant job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,559 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Full-time

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Job description

Position Title
Lab AssistantSt Rose Medical PavilionPosition Summary / Career Interest:The Lab Assistant is responsible for performing pre-analytical laboratory functions such as specimen receipt from on and off campus locations, either hand-delivered or sent via pneumatic tube; transporting specimens to other sections in the laboratory for testing and communication with other staff, in one or more areas of the clinical laboratory, including: Microbiology, Specimen Collection & Processing Department, and Cytology.
This position performs inventory management functions and other non-specimen, pre-analytical tasks, such as assisting with cleaning non-testing equipment, eyewash safety checks, etc.

Responsibilities and Essential Job Functions

  • Receives specimens into the laboratory either through the pneumatic tube system or hand delivered to the core laboratory for testing.
  • Ensures specimens received are properly labeled with positive patient identification, have correct volume and have been centrifuged (if needed) prior to delivery.
  • Distributes specimens to the appropriate department. Sorts specimens by priority, location and tube type, and ensures STAT specimens received from the Emergency Department, Codes, Surgery and Intensive Care Units are expedited through the system.
  • Performs data entry in Laboratory information system according to hospital and laboratory policies and procedures, as well as compliance requirements Provides patients (and/or care provider) with instructions and necessary materials, if required, for specimen collection.
  • Disposes of biohazardous materials, and other potentially hazardous materials according to policy and strictly adheres to safety and infection control procedures
  • Communicates specimen problems to Specimen Processing Specialist.
  • Communicates non-specimen problems to department supervisor.
  • Assists with troubleshooting delays in STAT specimens getting loaded on the automation line or getting delivered to the individual testing department.
  • Understands the importance of all pre-analytical variables including, but not limited to: positive patient identification, correct container type, specimen conditions and integrity and how they affect laboratory results.
  • Performs inventory management functions for other sections in the Core Laboratory, such as receiving vendor supply orders, verifying accuracy of packing slip with order slip, placing supply and reagent orders in proper location ensuring short dates are used first.
  • Maintains chemical inventory for department and ensures that most current MSDS is uploaded into online system as assigned.
  • Fills outside supply orders for off-campus clinics and prepares for shipment.
  • Uses and wears PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) as necessary to perform job safely and minimize risk.
  • Must be able to perform the professional, clinical and or technical competencies of the assigned unit or department.
  • These statements are intended to describe the essential functions of the job and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. Skills and duties may vary dependent upon your department or unit. Other duties may be assigned as required.


Required Education and Experience

  • High School Graduate or GED.


Preferred Education and Experience

  • 1 or more years of experience in clinical laboratory specimen processing and hospital/laboratory information systems data entry.
Time Type:Full timeJob Requisition ID:R-51781Important information for you to know as you apply:
  • The health system is an equal employment opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally-protected status. See also Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

  • The health system provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need to request reasonable accommodations for your disability as you navigate the recruitment process, please let our recruiters know by requesting an Accommodation Request form using this link asktalentacquisition@kumc.edu.

  • Employment with the health system is contingent upon, among other things, agreeing to the health-system-dispute-resolution-program.pdf and signing the agreement to the DRP.

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About University of Kansas Health System

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Operating within the healthcare industry, The University of Kansas Health System is a renowned medical institution located in Kansas City, KS, United States. Established in 1905, this not-for-profit health system has evolved to offer an extensive range of products and services, which spans across a variety of specialist areas such as cancer care, neurology, cardiology, and organ transplants, among others. The core mission of The University of Kansas Health System is to enhance the health and wellness of individuals and communities by providing world-class healthcare services, quality education and conducting advanced research. They are also known for their unwavering commitment to academic medicine, which sets them apart from their peers.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, KS, US