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Cytology Prep Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HireEazy

Senior Cytotechnologist (Per Diem)

Boston, MA · On-site

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.

Silver Cross Hospital

Cytologist II Registry

New Lenox, IL · On-site

$46.26/hr

Knowledge in processing and maintenance of Thin Prep 2000 * Perform HPV orders, adding results and ... Cytology statistics including comparison of tech with lab * Follow up on abnormal cases * Perform ...

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How much do cytology prep tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 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.
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What states have the most Cytology Prep Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Cytology Prep Tech jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cytology Prep Tech jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cytology Prep Tech jobs are:
Cytology Prep Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cytology Prep Tech job openings in the United States as of June 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 Specimen Prep Technologist\/Technician - Per Diem

Stony Brook University Medical

Stony Brook, NY

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

New Competitive Base Salaries and Competitive Shift Pay for Off Shifts
Position Summary 

At Stony Brook Medicine, a TH Clinical Laboratory Technologist is a valuable member of our team, who provides clinical services to our patient population, and  will also  Interact in a professional manner with nursing staff, physicians, support staff, peers and other members of the hospital community.  Will maintain a general knowledge of safe practices and conducts oneself in a manner consistent with those practices to insure the safety of all Laboratory personnel.  Qualified candidates will demonstrate superior patient care and possess outstanding communication skills while adhering to our high standard of excellence.

Duties of a TH Clinical Laboratory Technologist may include but are not limited to the following: 

Receipt and Acceptance of Cytology specimens:

       Check patient ID (All tracking forms, requisitions, and specimen containers must have at least two matching patient identifiers).

       Register patient, accession case, and properly affix labels on specimen containers, processing tubes, and slides using department LIS (CoPath) and specimen tracking system (Ventana Vantage).

       Hold or forward specimen for Molecular Testings (HPV and ThyroSeq) per physician's  requests.

 

Preparation of Cytology Specimen:

       Prepare GYN specimens utilizing ThinPrep Processor.

       Prepare Non-GYN specimens utilizing established protocols (Cytospin, ThinPrep Processor, and cell blocks).

Stain and Coverslip Prepared Microscope Slides:

       Stain GYN and Non-GYN microscope slides on automated stainer utilizing departmental staining protocols.

       Coverslip stained slides on automated coverslipper utilizing departmental protocols.

Specimen Storage and Disposal: 

       Store all fresh fluid and specimens in refrigerator at 2-8 degree Celsius at all times except for during processing.

       Keep all processed and residual Non-GYN specimens in refrigerator at 2-8 degree Celsius and ThinPrep vial at room temperature for at least 2 weeks/10 working days.

       Keep all GYN ThinPrep vial after processing for at least 6 weeks.

       Discard biological and chemical waste following established protocols and procedures.

 

Equipment Maintenance:

       Perform mandatory quality control (QC) maintenance  checks on equipment.

       Filter reagents on automated stainer daily, clean stainer and refill with fresh reagents biweekly.

 

Safety:

       Maintain safe work practices established by regulatory agencies, Hospital, Environment Health and Safety, and Departmental procedures and policies.

       Utilize proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

       Must understand and comply with all JCAHO/CAP/NYSDOH/EH&S compliance regulations and standards.

Compliance with Standards and Protocols:

       Must understand and comply with all JCAHO/CAP/NYSDOH/EH&S compliance regulations and standards.

       Must follow all laboratory procedures and protocols and interpretation of such policies as necessary to ensure proper patient care and safe work practices, includes using appropriate engineering and administrative controls and/or wearing appropriate personal protective equipment.  Hospital, Environmental Health and Safety as well as HIPAA policies need to be strictly followed.

Troubleshooting:

       Troubleshoot machines based on instructions on vendor manual or call vendor's service line for assistance.

       Document all corrective actions.

Inventory Control:

       Maintain inventory control of reagents and supplies.

       Order office supplies.

       Keep the laboratory adequately stocked at all times.

Staff Training and Development:

       Training and competency assessment of new staff or staff responsible for coverage.

       Provide overview of cytology preparation laboratory workflow, preparation methods, and techniques to residents, fellows, students, etc.

Required Qualifications:  

      Associate's Degree in Biological Science or Laboratory Technology. In lieu of a degree, prior relevant laboratory experience.

      Knowledge of basic laboratory procedures and safety protocols.

      Basic manual dexterity and basic computer skills.

      Highly organized, good multitasking skills, team player, and good communication skills.

      NYSDOH Clinical Laboratory Technician (CLT) or Histotechnician (HT) License.

       Basic motility, ability to stand or sit for extended periods, ability to lift or carry light to moderate weights, safe use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

 Preferred Qualifications: 

     Bachelor's Degree in Clinical Laboratory Science, Biology, or related field. Completion of a Clinical Laboratory Technology, Histotechnology, or Laboratory Technician training program.

      2 years of experience in a clinical laboratory, ideally in cytology preparation or specimen processing.

      Familiarity with cytology specimen preparation techniques, including smearing, ThinPrep slide and cell block preparation, staining, and cytospin. Ability to operate and troubleshoot laboratory equipment. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS). Knowledge of and adherence    to laboratory   safety standards, infection control, and regulatory compliance (CAP, CLIA, JCAHO, HIPAA).

       Excellent interpersonal and effective communication skills, strong documentation and record-keeping skills.

      NYSDOH Clinical Laboratory Technologist (CLS) or Histotechnologist (HTL) License.

 
Please Note: Verification of degree (e.g., diploma or official transcript) is required for this role. Upload of documentation must be included with your application for consideration.
 
 

Special Notes:   Resume/CV should be included with the online application.

Posting Overview:  This position will remain posted until filled or for a maximum of 90 days. An initial review of all applicants will occur two weeks from the posting date. Candidates are advised on the application that for full consideration, applications must be received before the initial review date (which is within two weeks of the posting date). 

If within the initial review no candidate was selected to fill the position posted, additional applications will be considered for the posted position; however, the posting will close once a finalist is identified, and at minimal, two weeks after the initial posting date. Please note, that if no candidate were identified and hired within 90 days from initial posting, the posting would close for review, and possibly reposted at a later date.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

  • Stony Brook Medicine is a smoke free environment. Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere on campus, including parking lots and outdoor areas on the premises.
  • All Hospital positions maybe subject to changes in pass days and shifts as necessary. 
  • This position may require the wearing of respiratory protection, which may prohibit the wearing of facial hair. 
  • This function/position maybe designated as "essential." This means that when the Hospital is faced with an institutional emergency, employees in such positions may be required to remain at their work location or to report to work to protect, recover, and continue operations at Stony Brook Medicine, Stony Brook University Hospital and related facilities. 

Prior to start date, the selected candidate must meet the following requirements: 

  • Successfully complete pre-employment physical examination and obtain medical clearance from Stony Brook Medicine's Employee Health Services
  • Complete electronic reference check with a minimum of three (3) professional references.
  • Successfully complete a 4 panel drug screen
  • Meet Regulatory Requirements for pre employment screenings.
  • Provide a copy of any required New York State license(s)/certificate(s). 

Failure to comply with any of the above requirements could result in a delayed start date and/or revocation of the employment offer. 

*The hiring department will be responsible for any fee incurred for examination.

 _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Stony Brook University is committed to excellence in diversity and the creation of an inclusive learning, and working environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status and all other protected classes under federal or state laws. 

If you need a disability-related accommodation, please call the University Office of Equity and Access at (631)632-6280. 

In accordance with the Title II Crime Awareness and Security Act a copy of our crime statistics can be viewed here. 

Visit our WHY WORK HERE page to learn about the total rewards we offer.

Stony Brook University Hospital, consistent with our shared core values and our intent to achieve excellence, remains dedicated to supporting healthier and more resilient communities, both locally and globally.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as $68.98 / hr

The above salary range represents SBUH's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.  The specific salary offer will be based on the candidate's validated years of comparable experience.  Any efforts to inflate or misrepresent experience are grounds for disqualification from the application process or termination of employment if hired.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number in your paycheck. SBUH provides generous leave, health plans, and state pension that add to your bottom line. 

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