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Cytology Lab Assistant Jobs in Exton, PA (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Assistant II

Newark, DE · On-site

$18.55 - $26.90/hr

... Assistant to perform various duties within the Histology, Cytology and Autopsy service department ... Accessions and logs in specimens in Histology, Cytology and Autopsy. * Transports specimens to/from ...

Assistant Scientist

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

... students and new lab members. This role aims to advance the mechanistic understanding of ... Flow cytometry for immune cell phenotyping and functional analysis * Immunofluorescence and ...

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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 Exton, PA is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $22.26 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 job categories do people searching Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in Exton, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in Exton, PA are:

What cities near Exton, PA are hiring for Cytology Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Exton, PA with the most Cytology Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Cytology Lab Assistant job openings in Exton, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,645 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Cytology Technical Assistant- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania

Penn Medicine

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Other

Re-posted yesterday


Penn Medicine rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 353 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Description

Penn Medicine is dedicated to our tripartite mission of providing the highest level of care to patients, conducting innovative research, and educating future leaders in the field of medicine. Working for this leading academic medical center means collaboration with top clinical, technical and business professionals across all disciplines.

Today at Penn Medicine, someone will make a breakthrough. Someone will heal a heart, deliver hopeful news, and give comfort and reassurance. Our employees shape our future each day. Are you living your life's work?

The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania is seeking a Per Diem Cytology Technical Assistant to join their team:

Summary:

  • The Cytology Technical Assistant promptly and accurately performs preparation, staining, mounting, scanning, and special procedures in the Cytology lab. Responsibilities include reviewing incoming samples and requisitions before testing for proper patient identification and checking the acceptability of the samples for the requested tests. The Cytology Technical Assistant prepares batches of slides/specimens to send back to cytotechnologist/pathologist/ancillary laboratories for review, diagnosis or additional tests.

Responsibilities:

  • Accurately performs routine staining, mounting, and special procedures on Gyn and Non-Gyn cytology specimens.Operates, troubleshoots, and maintains lab instruments and tools used in the lab, Assists in developing or evaluating new technologies or test procedures in the lab.Accurately reviews patient samples/requisitions to properly capture all requested tests and evaluates the suitability of the sample.Promptly batches and sends slides/specimens back to cytotechnologist, pathologists or ancillary laboratories for review or additional tests.Minimizes the need to re-prepare cytology samples and promptly re-preps the samples, when requested.Accurately checks worksheets and lists in the lab information system to ensure all pending and completed work is promptly captured.Operates and maintains Hologic Thin Prep imager.Performs weekly/daily checks and documentation of temperatures, stainer slide counts, and stain lots.

Education or Equivalent Experience:

  • H.S. Diploma/GED (Required)

  • Enrollment in an accredited school of Cytotechnology, Histotechnology, Medical Technology/Technician program, or other previous related laboratory experience (Preferred)

  • Prior experience with Laboratory Information Systems (Preferred)

We believe that the best care for our patients starts with the best care for our employees. Our employee benefits programs help our employees get healthy and stay healthy. We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits program that includes one of the finest prepaid tuition assistance programs in the region. Penn Medicine employees are actively engaged and committed to our mission. Together we will continue to make medical advances that help people live longer, healthier lives.

Live Your Life's Work

We are an Equal Opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, familial status, genetic information, domestic or sexual violence victim status, citizenship status, military status, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable law.

REQNUMBER: 334977


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