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Cytology Lab Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Responsibilities include supporting lab functions, contributing to strategic planning, fostering a ... Ability to embed and section biopsy, bone marrow, cytology, and routine surgical cases. * Assist ...

Responsibilities include supporting lab functions, contributing to strategic planning, fostering a ... Ability to embed and section biopsy, bone marrow, cytology, and routine surgical cases. * Assist ...

Responsibilities include supporting lab functions, contributing to strategic planning, fostering a ... Ability to embed and section biopsy, bone marrow, cytology, and routine surgical cases. * Assist ...

Responsibilities include supporting lab functions, contributing to strategic planning, fostering a ... Ability to embed and section biopsy, bone marrow, cytology, and routine surgical cases. * Assist ...

Cytology Lab Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do cytology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cytology lab assistant in Riverside, CA is $21.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.09 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.

How much do lab assistants get paid?

Cytology lab assistants typically earn between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Salaries are often complemented by benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

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 Riverside, CA? For Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Cytology Lab Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Cytology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Cytology Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Cytology Lab Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,935 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Histotechnologist

$50.09/hr

Per diem

Posted 25 days ago


City Of Hope rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 869 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Histotechnologist  – Histopathology Laboratory (Per Diem)

Join the transformative team at City of Hope, where we're changing lives and making a real difference in the fight against cancer, diabetes, and other life-threatening illnesses. City of Hope’s growing national system includes its Los Angeles campus, a network of clinical care locations across Southern California, a new cancer center in Orange County, California, and treatment facilities in Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix. our dedicated and compassionate employees are driven by a common mission: To deliver the cures of tomorrow to the people who need them today.  

We are seeking a Histotechnologist to join our Anatomic Pathology team! Working with our Lead Histotechnologist and reporting directly to our Manager for AP, this role requires expertise in histology laboratory operations. Responsibilities include supporting lab functions, contributing to strategic planning, fostering a collaborative team environment, and delivering exceptional customer service to further our mission of improving patient outcomes. CLICK HERE to learn more about the Lennar Foundation Cancer Center! 

Note: This position requires flexibility to accommodate varying patient needs. Shifts may include days, evenings, weekends, and holidays. On-call responsibilities and mandatory overtime may also be necessary.

As a successful candidate, you will: 

  • Prepare of tissues and stained slides of a high quality.
  • Ability to embed and section biopsy, bone marrow, cytology, and routine surgical cases.
  • Assist with the troubleshooting of technical, processing, and staining issues.
  • Meet the daily workflow functions of a workload throughput histology laboratory.
  • Maintain the appropriate specimen processing of patient samples, testing of samples for diagnostic purposes.
  • Assist in the maintenance of the laboratory for State, CMS and CAP inspections, to include the review of standard operational procedures (SOP) and participating in all laboratory inspections. performed according to the SOP’s and other regulatory bodies
  • Experience with Epic Beaker (preferred)
  • Knowledge of GI and Breast tissue (preferred)

Your qualifications should include:  

  • Associates degree and completion of a certified clinical program in medical laboratory sciences in histopathology or equivalent educationyears of experience
  • 0 - 1 years of experience in a histology laboratory
  • ASCP HT or HTL
  • Hourly Pay Rate: $50.0892 / hr

City of Hope employees pay is based on the following criteria: work experience, qualifications, and work location. City of Hope is an equal opportunity employer. 


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About City of Hope

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

City of Hope is an independent biomedical research and treatment organization for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. Founded in 1913, City of Hope is a leader in bone marrow transplantation and immunotherapy such as CAR T cell therapy. City of Hopes translational research and personalized treatment protocols advance care throughout the world. Human synthetic insulin, monoclonal antibodies and numerous breakthrough cancer drugs are based on technology developed at the institution. AccessHope, a subsidiary launched in 2019 serves employers and their health care partners by providing access to City of Hopes specialized cancer expertise. City of Hope is ranked among the nations Best Hospitals in cancer by U.S. News & World Report and received Magnet Recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Its main campus is located near Los Angeles, with additional locations throughout Southern California and in Arizona.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Duarte, CA, US

Year founded

1913