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Cytology Prep Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cytology Prep Technician

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$20.75 - $27.75/hr

We have an exciting opportunity to join our team as a Cytology Prep Technician. In this role, the ... technologist. * An Associates Degree from a relevant course of study as defined by NYS clinical ...

Cytology Prep Technician

New York, NY · On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

We have an exciting opportunity to join our team as a Cytology Prep Technician. In this role, the ... technologist. * An Associates Degree from a relevant course of study as defined by NYS clinical ...

The Histotechnician I position is an entry level position for individuals with previous histology or other laboratory experience (i.e., laboratory assistant, cytology prep tech, etc.). The individual ...

The Histotechnician I position is an entry level position for individuals with previous histology or other laboratory experience (i.e., laboratory assistant, cytology prep tech, etc.). The individual ...

There are 2 cytotechs and 1 cyto prep tech * There are 2 PAs on site to Gross and cut frozen ... Performing 5-10 GYN cytology cases * Performing 15-20 non-GYN cytology including FNA cases (Smears ...

... cytology prep tech, etc.). The individual will receive on the job training to perform specific technical histology functions under the general supervision of a qualified histotechnicianII ...

The Histotechnician I position is an entry level position for individuals with previous histology or other laboratory experience (i.e., laboratory assistant, cytology prep tech, etc.). The individual ...

The Histotechnician I position is an entry level position for individuals with previous histology or other laboratory experience (i.e., laboratory assistant, cytology prep tech, etc.). The individual ...

Act as a resource for Cytotechnologist and prep technologists. Have advanced knowledge and training ... Support cytology supervisors as necessary, gather statistics, evaluate laboratory preparedness etc.

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Cytology Prep Tech information

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How much do cytology prep tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for cytology prep tech in the United States is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cytology Prep Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cytology Prep Tech, you need a background in biological sciences, attention to detail, and typically an associate degree or specialized training in laboratory technology. Familiarity with laboratory information systems, staining equipment, and specimen processing protocols is commonly required, and some positions may prefer ASCP certification. Strong organizational skills, manual dexterity, and the ability to work efficiently under deadlines are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate specimen preparation, which is critical for reliable cytological analysis and patient diagnoses.

What is the difference between Cytology Prep Tech vs Histology Technician?

AspectCytology Prep TechHistology Technician
CertificationsTypically requires a Cytology Technician certification or equivalentUsually requires a Histology Technician certification or equivalent
Work EnvironmentPrepares cytology slides from samples like Pap smearsPrepares tissue samples for microscopic examination
Industry UsageCommonly employed in laboratories focusing on cytology testingFound in pathology labs handling tissue histology

While both roles involve preparing samples for microscopic analysis, Cytology Prep Techs focus on cytology specimens like Pap smears, whereas Histology Technicians handle tissue samples for histopathology. Certifications and work environments overlap but serve different diagnostic purposes.

What are some common challenges faced by Cytology Prep Techs, and how can they be managed effectively?

Cytology Prep Techs often encounter challenges such as maintaining accuracy and attention to detail when preparing and staining specimens, especially when handling high sample volumes or urgent requests. Managing potential contamination and ensuring proper labeling are also critical to avoid diagnostic errors. Effective organization, adherence to strict laboratory protocols, and clear communication with pathologists and other lab personnel can help mitigate these challenges. Regular training and staying updated with best practices further support a successful workflow.

What does a Cytology Prep Tech do?

A Cytology Prep Tech, or Cytology Preparation Technician, is responsible for preparing biological specimens—such as body fluids and tissue samples—for microscopic examination by a cytotechnologist or pathologist. Their duties typically include labeling and handling samples, using specialized equipment to process slides, staining specimens, and ensuring quality control. This role is crucial for accurate diagnosis, as the quality of specimen preparation directly affects the reliability of test results. Cytology Prep Techs often work in hospital laboratories, private labs, or clinics, following strict safety and procedural protocols.
More about Cytology Prep Tech jobs
What states have the most Cytology Prep Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Cytology Prep Tech jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cytology Prep Tech job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,952 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Cytology Prep Technician

Cytology Prep Technician

NYU Langone Health

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$20.75 - $27.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


NYU Langone Health rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 247 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 889 rated healthcare providers


Job description

NYU Langone Health is a fully integrated health system that consistently achieves the best patient outcomes through a rigorous focus on quality that has resulted in some of the lowest mortality rates in the nation. Vizient Inc. has ranked NYU Langone the No. 1 comprehensive academic medical center in the country for three years in a row, and U.S. News & World Report recently placed nine of its clinical specialties among the top five in the nation. NYU Langone offers a comprehensive range of medical services with one high standard of care across 6 inpatient locations, its Perlmutter Cancer Center, and over 320 outpatient locations in the New York area and Florida. With $14.2 billion in revenue this year, the system also includes two tuition-free medical schools, in Manhattan and on Long Island, and a vast research enterprise with over $1 billion in active awards from the National Institutes of Health.
For more information, go to NYU Langone Health, and interact with us on LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Indeed, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

Position Summary:
We have an exciting opportunity to join our team as a Cytology Prep Technician.
In this role, the successful candidate performs cytological laboratory procedures pursuant to established and approved protocols which require limited exercise of independent judgment. Duties are performed under the supervision of a licensed cytotechnologist, laboratory supervisor, and director of a cytopathology laboratory.

Job Responsibilities:

    1. Reconciles cytology specimens to ensure proper testing is performed.  Accurately opens, labels, numbers, verifies patient identity and enters information from the test requisition into Powerpath for each specimen received.
    2. Grosses and prepares smears, cytospins and cell blocks.
    3. Accurately enters gross description in Tamtron patient report.
    4. Processes cytology specimens including the fine needle aspirations, non-gynecological smears, and gynecological monolayers using ThinPrep Pap test technique.
    5. Properly operates the ThinPrep image Processor and.
    6. Performs all staining protocols: Papanicolaou stain, differential stain, modified rapid Pap stain.
    7. Prepares specimens for all type of special stains. Slide coverslipping and labeling
    8. Provides assistance with the maintenance of all stains, reagents, and instruments of the laboratory. Maintains all daily, weekly, and monthly logs
    9. Utilizing, and troubleshooting all equipment; ThinPrep instrumentation; Leica instrumentation, and all other laboratory centrifuges and instruments.
    10. Proper use of LIS; Powerpath;  Thermo Slidemate AS
    11. Participation in QC/QA and Participation in supply inventory management
    12. Maintains open communication with the department supervisor, MD directors and co-workers, particularly as it relates to important testing information.
    13. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • NYSDOH Licensed as a Certified Clinical Laboratory histotechnician, histotechnologist, clinical laboratory technician, or clinical laboratory technologist.
  • An Associates Degree from a relevant course of study as defined by NYS clinical laboratory licensing requirements.
  • A high school degree will only be accepted if the individual has the designated experience defined by NYSDOH and has obtained their NYS license through the grand-parenting pathway defined by NYSDOH.
  • Experience required is 6 months 12 months in a pathology laboratory.
  • Exposure to and knowledge of computer systems.
  • ASCP certification as an HT or HTL.
  • Good communication skills.. 

Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree. One-year experience in a cytopathology laboratory.

Qualified candidates must be able to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization.
NYU Langone Health provides its staff with far more than just a place to work. Rather, we are an institution you can be proud of, an institution where you'll feel good about devoting your time and your talents.

At NYU Langone Health, we are committed to supporting our workforce and their loved ones with a comprehensive benefits and wellness package. Our offerings provide a robust support system for any stage of life, whether it's developing your career, starting a family, or saving for retirement. The support employees receive goes beyond a standard benefit offering, where employees have access to financial security benefits, a generous time-off program and employee resources groups for peer support. Additionally, all employees have access to our holistic employee wellness program, which focuses on seven key areas of well-being: physical, mental, nutritional, sleep, social, financial, and preventive care. The benefits and wellness package is designed to allow you to focus on what truly matters. Join us and experience the extensive resources and services designed to enhance your overall quality of life for you and your family.
NYU Langone Health is an equal opportunity employer and committed to inclusion in all aspects of recruiting and employment. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration. We require applications to be completed online.

View Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal.

NYU Langone Health provides a salary range to comply with the New York state Law on Salary Transparency in Job Advertisements. The salary range for the role is $99,053.60 - $125,117 Annually. Actual salaries depend on a variety of factors, including experience, specialty, education, and hospital need. The salary range or contractual rate listed does not include bonuses/incentive, differential pay or other forms of compensation or benefits.

To view the Pay Transparency Notice, please click here


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