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Cytology Lab Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Biological Scientist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP) * Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN) Position ... Prepares, organizes and maintains various lab samples, supplies, and equipment. * Interpret ...

Biologist

Bethesda, MD

$74K - $124K/yr

... lab members. * Assist with experimental work and lead independent research projects aligned with ... ddPCR, flow cytometry and/or animal research techniques. * Ability to work independently and ...

Biologist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$74K - $124K/yr

... lab members. * Assist with experimental work and lead independent research projects aligned with ... ddPCR, flow cytometry and/or animal research techniques. * Ability to work independently and ...

Showing results 41-53

Cytology Lab Assistant information

See Washington salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do cytology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 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 cities in Washington are hiring for Cytology Lab Assistant jobs?

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

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.

Cytotechnologist Tech Lab Full Time Day Shift

UHS

Washington, DC • On-site

$39.96 - $59.94/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assess gynecological and non-gynecological specimens submitted to the Cytopathology service.

  • Serve as a technical expert to assist in training physicians and medical students.

  • Assist clinicians in performing adequacy assessments of Fine Needle Aspirations (FNAs) and Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS).


Universal Health Services rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 255 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

496th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Responsibilities
The George Washington University Hospital (GW Hospital) continues to be a leader in providing the highest level of quality and compassionate healthcare for the D.C. Region. U.S. News & World Report has just released the 2023-2024 ratings and rankings, in which GW Hospital is recognized as a Best Regional Hospital. GW ranks 5th in the region, which includes hospitals in D.C. and parts of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia.
GW Hospital achieved "High Performing" status in two specialty areas, Neurology and Neuroscience.
In addition, GW Hospital receiving "High Performing" designations for the following 10 procedures: COPD, Diabetes, Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Kidney Failure, Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma, Lung Cancer Surgery, Pneumonia, Prostrate Cander Surgery and Stroke.
Measured by factors such as patient outcomes, "High Performing" is a designation U.S. News & World Report bestows to recognize performance in these specialties that is significantly better than the national average. GW Hospital received the American College of Cardiology's National Cardiovascular Data Registry (NCDR) Chest Pain - Myocardial Infarction (MI) Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2023. *GW Hospital is the only hospital in Washington, D.C., to be recognized for this service line.
"At GW Hospital, we are proud to offer a range of advanced services and treatments. Our multidisciplinary care teams are dedicated to outstanding clinical services, research, and education to improve care, quality, and outcomes for our patients," says Ulises Torres, MD, Chief Quality Officer at GW Hospital. "These recognitions by U.S. News & World Report , which place us within the top hospitals in the region, highlight the expertise, commitment and diligence delivered to each patient in our care."
Children's National Hospital, GW Hospital's NICU partner, was recently ranked the number two hospital in the country for neonatology by U.S. News & World Report . In addition to these recent U.S. News & World Report recognitions, GW Hospital also provides high-quality care in the region through its designation as a Level I Trauma Center and designation as a Comprehensive Stroke Center.
The mission of GWU Hospital is to provide the highest quality of healthcare, advanced medical technology, and world class service to its patients in an academic medical center dedicated to education and research
Summary:
Assesses gynecological and non-gynecological specimens submitted to the Cytopathology Serves as a technical expert to assist in the training of physicians and medical students. Assists the Clinicians in performing adequacy of Fine Needle Aspirations (FNAs) and Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS).
Relocation Available!
Benefit Highlights
• Challenging and rewarding work environment
• Competitive Compensation & Generous Paid Time Off
• Excellent Medical, Dental, Vision and Prescription Drug Plans
• 401(K) with company match and discounted stock plan
• SoFi Student Loan Refinancing Program
• Career development opportunities within UHS and its 300+ Subsidiaries! • More information is available on our Benefits Guest Website: benefits.uhsguest.com
Qualifications
Education/Qualification:
    • A Completion of a Cytotechnology program
    • Bachelor's degree in Biological Science
    • One year experience in a Cytotechnology laboratory is desirable.
    • Certification or eligibility for certification as Cytologist (CT) by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.
Skills:
    • Prepares slides and evaluates human cellular samples from all body sites.
    • Assist Clinicians with performing adequacy of FNAs and EBUS

About Universal Health Services
One of the nation's largest and most respected providers of hospital and healthcare services, Universal Health Services, Inc. (NYSE: UHS) has built an impressive record of achievement and performance, growing since its inception into a Fortune 500 corporation. Headquartered in King of Prussia, PA, UHS has 99,000 employees. Through its subsidiaries, UHS operates 28 acute care hospitals, 331 behavioral health facilities, 60 outpatient and other facilities in 39 U.S. States, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom.
EEO Statement
All UHS subsidiaries are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates. UHS subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers and as such, openly support and fully commit to recruitment, selection, placement, promotion and compensation of individuals without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Avoid and Report Recruitment Scams
We are aware of a scam whereby imposters are posing as Recruiters from UHS, and our subsidiary hospitals and facilities. Beware of anyone requesting financial or personal information.
At UHS and all our subsidiaries, our Human Resources departments and recruiters are here to help prospective candidates by matching skill set and experience with the best possible career path at UHS and our subsidiaries. During the recruitment process, no recruiter or employee will request financial or personal information (e.g., Social Security Number, credit card or bank information, etc.) from you via email. Our recruiters will not email you from a public webmail client like Hotmail, Gmail, Yahoo Mail, etc.
If you suspect a fraudulent job posting or job-related email mentioning UHS or its subsidiaries, we encourage you to report such concerns to appropriate law enforcement. We encourage you to refer to legitimate UHS and UHS subsidiary career websites to verify job opportunities and not rely on unsolicited calls from recruiters.
Pay Transparency - To encourage pay transparency, promote pay equity, and proactively address regulations, UHS and all our subsidiaries will comply with all applicable state or local laws or regulations which require employers to provide wage or salary range information to job applicants and employees. A posted salary range applies to the current job posting. Salary offers may be based on key factors such as education and related experience.

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About Universal Health Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Universal Health Services (UHS) is a major player in the healthcare industry, based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, U.S. Founded in 1978, UHS offers hospital and healthcare services. Their diverse services range from acute care hospitals, behavioral health facilities and ambulatory centers nationwide. The company's mission of enhancing the health and well-being of their patients is reflected in their commitment to 'Helping Individuals Live Longer, Healthier and Happier Lives'. Universal Health Services' consistent growth and success in their industry have been recognized on numerous occasions, including being ranked amongst the Fortune 500 list of largest companies.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

King of Prussia, PA, US