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Cytology Lab Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Dovel Technologies, Inc

Research Scientist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

... Assist the Lab Chief in the creating/preparing documents required by the Lab Chief's scientific ... Experience with flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and metabolomics. * Extensive experience in ...

Guidehouse

Research Scientist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$98K - $163K/yr

... * Assist the Lab Chief in the creating/preparing documents required by the Lab Chief's scientific ... Experience with flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and metabolomics. * Extensive experience in ...

Guidehouse

Research Scientist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$98K - $163K/yr

... * Assist the Lab Chief in the creating/preparing documents required by the Lab Chief's scientific ... Experience with flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and metabolomics. * Extensive experience in ...

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Cytology Lab Assistant information

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How much do cytology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cytology lab assistant in Washington is $22.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.15 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 Washington?

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

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

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

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

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

Cytology Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cytology Lab Assistant job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,697 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Scientist II

Quest Diagnostics

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$29.13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 121 rated laboratories

Job description


Medical Laboratory Scientist II - Chantilly, VA, Sunday to Thursday, 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Department - Clinical Laboratory - Serology General
Pay range: $35.78 - $48.06 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

Perform test procedures of moderate/high complexity requiring the exercise of independent judgement and responsibility in those specialties in which they are qualified by education, training and experience.
Responsibilities
  • Must demonstrate proficiency in all areas of testing and be proficient troubleshooting all applicable instruments/procedures in the department.
  • Provides support to the department in the areas of quality control, troubleshooting complex problems, customer support, instrument and equipment maintenance, staff training, process improvement and the completion of special projects as assigned.
  • Perform and report on assigned analytical tests in accordance with applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) ensuring that applicable quality control requirements are met.
  • Actively support and comply with laboratory policies and procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analysis, reporting and maintaining records of patient test results.
  • Adhere to analytical schedules to maintain turnaround time of results including STATS or critical results to clients.
  • Ensure reagents/test kits have received dates, expiration dates and if applicable opened dates.
  • Perform and document QC analysis to ensure accuracy of clinical data and proper instrument function. Make quality control decisions regarding the disposition of an assay or test.
  • Responsible for informing supervisory personnel of all problems associated with the proper performance of test procedures.
  • Report any actual or potential deviation from standard or accepted testing procedures and cooperate fully with any investigation of same.
  • Enter test results into the Laboratory Information System for standardized report to be generated for physician review and interpretation.
  • Qualified to release California results
  • Maintain laboratory areas and equipment in a safe, functional and sanitary condition.
  • Complete training and competency checklists as appropriate.
  • May assist supervisor with training of other laboratory personnel.
  • Adheres to all established CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA and laboratory safety requirements.
  • Required to use (a) personal protective equipment, (b) engineering controls and/or (c) work practice controls as directed by management.
  • Answer questions from clients or other lab personnel, if applicable.
  • Participate in government or regulatory agency inspections, if needed.
  • May be required, in the absence of a Supervisor, to assume lead responsibilities if qualified and delegated.
  • Other duties as assigned. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities, but rather a general description of work performed by the position.

Qualifications
Education (Required)
  • Biology focused lab areas (Donor Testing, Flow Cytometry, Hematology, IFA, Immunology, Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, Molecular Infectious Disease, Molecular Oncology, Serology, TB Blood Testing, Virology) Medical Lab Scientists must meet one of the following:
    • Bachelor of Science** with certification as a Medical Laboratory Science from the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP), or the American Medical Technologists (AMT) dated after 1/1/2014, or American Association of Bio analysts (AAB).
    • BSMT, Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology, from accredited college or university in the US**.
    • BS or BA degree with a major in Microbiology or Bacteriology from accredited college or university in the US**, plus 1 year training and/or experience testing in a clinical setting. Must include a course in Medical/Pathogenic Microbiology or Bacteriology
    • BS or BA degree in a biological science from accredited college or university in the US** with 25 semester hours inclusive but not limited to the courses below, plus 1 year training and/or experience testing in a clinical setting.
      • Must have courses: General Biology, General or Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology
      • May have courses: Bacteriology, Virology, Epidemiology, Cell/Molecular Biology, Immunology or Serology, Instrumentation, Physics (max 3 credits), Inorganic Chemistry, Medical/Pathogenic Microbiology, Mycology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Hematology, Parasitology, Micro techniques
      • ** Foreign educated candidates must provide a detailed credential evaluation from National Association Credential Evaluation Services, Inc. (NACES) or Association of International Credential evaluators, Inc. (AICE).
      • CAP, California, and New York specific requirements may apply depending on BU's state testing certifications. Check with local HR or QA departments.

Education (Preferred)
  • Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology

Work Experience (Required)
  • 1 year laboratory experience and/or training (high complexity testing) in the specialties/sub-specialties in which testing will be performed

Physical and Mental Requirements
  • Ability to stand and work at the bench for long periods of time.
  • The normal performance of duties may require lifting and carrying objects: Objects 1 to 10 pounds are lifted and carried frequently; objects 11 to 25 pounds are lifted and carried occasionally; objects 36 to 50 pounds are seldom lifted or carried and objects over 50 pounds are not to be lifted or carried without assistance.
  • Frequent walking and/or standing.
  • May be required to use a wide variety of manual and automated pipettes and laboratory instruments and apparatuses all of which demand significant manual dexterity.

Work Environment
  • Required to handle biological samples and potentially hazardous chemicals

Preferred Technical Training or Professional Licensing
  • ASCP Certification Preferred
  • Clinical Laboratory Scientist (e.g. California) preferred

Knowledge
  • Theoretical and operational job knowledge in designated specialty required.
  • Knowledge of organizational/departmental policies and procedures.

Skills
  • Proven problem-solving skills
  • Must be detail-oriented, can work independently, establish work priorities and to handle several tasks simultaneously for maximum department efficiency.
  • Interpersonal skills necessary to deal courteously and effectively with supervisors, co-workers, and clients.
  • Communication skills necessary to handle telephone inquiries from clients.
  • Ability to deal with client information in a confidential manner.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook) and Laboratory Information Systems.
  • Ability to plan, organize and complete all work assignments even under stressful conditions.

MLS, Medical Laboratory Scientist, Medical Lab Scientist, Med Tech, Medical Technologist, CLS, Clinical Lab Scientist
About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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