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Cytology Lab Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

$24.51 - $30.28/hr

August 18, 2026 Department: 72006334 Central Lab Cytology Shift: Day (United States of America ... May assist with standard operating procedure development in assigned work area. * Participates in ...

Laboratory Care Technician

Hibbing, MN · On-site

$18.88 - $25.06/hr

The hospital lab at Fairview Range provides 24/7 support for Fairview Range Medical Center and the ... Training as a phlebotomist, clinical assistant, MLA, MLT, MT or LPN or 1 year experience in health ...

The hospital lab at Fairview Range provides 24/7 support for Fairview Range Medical Center and the ... Training as a phlebotomist, clinical assistant, MLA, MLT, MT or LPN or 1 year experience in health ...

Medical Laboratory Scientist

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$33.29 - $49.93/hr

As a Medical Lab Scientist at Regions Hospital, you will join an innovative and collaborative group ... * Assist in the implementation of methodologies. * Participate in the training of new personnel ...

Medical Laboratory Scientist

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$33.29 - $49.93/hr

As a Medical Lab Scientist at Regions Hospital, you will join an innovative and collaborative group ... * Assist in the implementation of methodologies. * Participate in the training of new personnel ...

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Cytology Lab Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do cytology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for cytology lab assistant in Minnesota is $19.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $22.60 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in Minnesota? For Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Cytology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Cytology Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Cytology Lab Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,246 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Laboratory Technical Assistant

Allina Health

On-site

$24.51 - $30.28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Allina Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 271 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Location Address:

2800 10th Ave Receiving Dock Minneapolis, MN 55407-1311

Date Posted:

August 11, 2026

Posting Expiration Date:

August 18, 2026

Department:

72006334 Central Lab Cytology

Shift:

Day (United States of America)

Shift Length:

8 hour shift

Hours Per Week:

40

Union Contract:

SEIU-9-Central Lab-SLC

Weekend Rotation:

Every 5th

Job Summary:

Aspiring healthcare professionals, join our team to gain experience in a diverse, multicultural lab environment where your work directly impacts patient care. This entry-level position combines direct patient interaction through outpatient phlebotomy with laboratory support functions, including specimen processing and waived testing. This role offers valuable exposure to hospital operations and allows you to build meaningful connections with processionals across various departments.

Key Position Details:

  • 1 FTE (80 hours per 2 week pay period)
  • 8 hour day shift 6 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. Monday-Friday
  • Weekend rotation roughly every 5th weekend (could be more or less depending on staffing)
  • Weekend hours are 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
  • Rotating Holiday coverage
  • Experience in a Cytology laboratory preferred

Job Description:

Performs pre-analytical processes in one or more areas, such as Histology, Core lab, or Microbiology. Collaborates with certified staff and pathologists in confirming & troubleshooting specimen labeling/collection requirements, computer orders, and performing accurate and timely surgical sample preparation/staining techniques. This position may perform waived testing.
Principle Responsibilities

  • Performs routine pre-analytic laboratory procedures.
    • Evaluates acceptability of specimens.
    • Processes specimens as required.
    • Performs routine problem resolution related to orders, specimens, and billing.
    • Works closely with certified staff and pathologists in confirming and troubleshooting specimen labeling/collection requirements, computer orders, and performing accurate and timely surgical sample preparation/staining techniques.
    • May perform waived testing.
  • Ensures patient orders are accurate and complete.
    • Performs scheduling, ordering and releasing in patients' electronic medical record.
    • Evaluates patient orders for completeness and follows up as needed.
  • Administrative duties.
    • Stocks, rotates, and requests supplies on a regular basis.
    • Trouble-shoots minor equipment issues.
    • Performs various clerical duties.
    • May train others in assigned work area.
    • May assist with standard operating procedure development in assigned work area.
    • Participates in departmental or system wide projects or committees as assigned.
  • Other duties as assigned.


Required Qualifications

  • High School or GED plus required college coursework: 36 semester hours of chemistry/biology/medical laboratory, or equivalent from a regionally accredited institution. The 36 semester hours must contain a minimum of 24 semester hours of biology/medical laboratory technology
  • At least 3 months lab training is required in each specialty lab area in which highly complex testing is to be performed


Physical Demands

  • Light Work:
  • Lifting weight up to 20 lbs. occasionally, up to 10 lbs. frequently

Pay Range

Pay Range: $24.51 to $30.28 per hourThe pay described reflects the base hourly pay range. Your starting rate would depend on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, your experience, education, and the union agreement (if applicable). Shift, weekend and/or other differentials may be available to increase your pay rate for certain shifts or work.

Benefit Summary


Allina Health believes the best way to provide safe and compassionate care for our patients is by nurturing the passion of those who care for them. That's why we devote extraordinary resources to help you grow and thrive - not only as a professional but also as a whole person. When you join our team, you have access to a wealth of valuable employee benefits that support the total well-being - mind, body, spirit and community - of you and your family members.


Allina Health is all in on your well-being. Because well-being means something different to everyone, our award-winning program provides you with the resources you need to help you navigate your personal journey. This includes well-being dollars, dedicated well-being navigators, and many programs, activities, articles, videos, personal coaching and tools to support you on your journey.


We are focused on creating an inclusive workplace so everyone can see themselves as part of our care team. Our care teams are as diverse as the communities we serve and proud to be contributing to the mission of a leading health care organization. Our pioneering approach to well-being helps every member of our care team feel a deep sense of connection and joy in their work.


Benefits include:

  • Medical/Dental
  • PTO/Time Away
  • Retirement Savings Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Short-term/Long-term Disability
  • Voluntary Benefits (vision, legal, critical illness)
  • Tuition Reimbursement or Continuing Medical Education as applicable
  • Student Loan Support Benefits to navigate the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Allina Health is a 501(c)(3) eligible employer

*Benefit eligibility/offerings are determined by FTE and if you are represented by a union.


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