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Cytology Prep Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lab Tech Aide I

Rancho Mirage, CA · On-site

$20.71 - $31.46/hr

Fine needle aspirate scheduling, prepare Cytology preparations and staining.16. Assists ... prep and test setup for automation, flow and immunology departments.21. Performs other duties ...

Fine needle aspirate scheduling, prepare Cytology preparations and staining.16. Assists ... prep and test setup for automation, flow and immunology departments.21. Performs other duties ...

Fine needle aspirate scheduling, prepare Cytology preparations and staining.16. Assists ... prep and test setup for automation, flow and immunology departments.21. Performs other duties ...

Fine needle aspirate scheduling, prepare Cytology preparations and staining.16. Assists ... prep and test setup for automation, flow and immunology departments.21. Performs other duties ...

Fine needle aspirate scheduling, prepare Cytology preparations and staining.16. Assists ... prep and test setup for automation, flow and immunology departments.21. Performs other duties ...

Showing results 41-60

Cytology Prep Tech information

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$8

$20

$34

How much do cytology prep tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 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.
Lab Prep Asst Per Diem - Histology / Voorhees & VOLOL Camden

Lab Prep Asst Per Diem - Histology / Voorhees & VOLOL Camden

VIRTUA HEALTH

Lourdes, IA

$18.69 - $26.01/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Virtua Health rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 173 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

161st of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

At Virtua Health, we exist for one reason - to better serve you. That means being here for you in all the moments that matter, striving each day to connect you to the care you need. Whether that's wellness and prevention, experienced specialists, life-changing care, or something in-between - we are your partner in health devoted to building a healthier community.
If you live or work in South Jersey, exceptional care is all around. Our medical and surgical experts are among the best in the country. We assembled more than 14,000 colleagues, including over 2,850 skilled and compassionate doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners equipped with the latest technologies, treatments, and techniques to provide exceptional care close to home. A Magnet-recognized health system ranked by U.S. News and World Report, we've received multiple awards for quality, safety, and outstanding work environment.
In addition to five hospitals, seven emergency departments, seven urgent care centers, and more than 280 otherlocations, we're committed to the well-being of the community. That means bringing life-changing resources and health services directly into our communities through ourEat Well food access program, telehealth, home health, rehabilitation, mobile screenings, paramedic programs, and convenient online scheduling. We're also affiliated with Penn Medicine for cancer and neurosciences, and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for pediatrics.

Location:

Voorhees - 100 Bowman Drive

Remote Type:

On-Site

Employment Type:

Employee

Employment Classification:

Per Diem

Time Type:

Part time

Work Shift:

1st Shift (United States of America)

Total Weekly Hours:

0

Additional Locations:

Lourdes Health System - 1600 Haddon Ave

Job Information:

Lab Prep Assistant Per Diem - Histology

Must be willing and capable of reporting to alternative hospital sites.

Voorhees and Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes, Camden.

Hours are 8:00am to 4:30pm.


Summary:
Provide clerical and preparatory support in the Histology/Cytology departments.
Will perform a variety of clerical and semi/non-technical duties using appropriate judgment to prioritize tasks.
Demonstrates effective and appropriate communication and interaction skills.

Position Responsibilities:
Receive and correctly match specimens with requisition from multiple locations.
Perform computer functions including registration and accessioning accurately while ensuring patient confidentiality.
Specimen handling including but not limited to correct numbering of containers and slides, preparation of cassettes and recognition of orders.
Where applicable, can process a variety of cytology specimens. This will include staining.
Maintain departmental logs and statistics.
Assist with frozen sections and bone marrow specimens including staining.
Process send out specimens and other duties as assigned.
Position Qualifications Required / Experience Required:
Computer skills.
Required Education:
High school diploma or equivalency.

Hourly Rate: $18.69 - $26.01 The actual salary/rate will vary based on applicant's experience as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.Virtua offers a comprehensive package of benefits for full-time and part-time colleagues, including, but not limited to: medical/prescription, dental and vision insurance; health and dependent care flexible spending accounts; 403(b) (401(k) subject to collective bargaining agreement); paid time off, paid sick leave as provided under state and local paid sick leave laws, short-term disability and optional long-term disability, colleague and dependent life insurance and supplemental life and AD&D insurance; tuition assistance, and an employee assistance program that includes free counseling sessions. Eligibility for benefits is governed by the applicable plan documents and policies.

For more benefits information click here.


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About Virtua Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Virtua Health, we exist for one reason - to better serve you. That means being here for you in all the moments that matter, striving each day to connect you to the care you need. Whether that's wellness and prevention, experienced specialists, life-changing care, or something in-between - we are your partner in health devoted to building a healthier community. If you live or work in South Jersey, exceptional care is all around. Our medical and surgical experts are among the best in the country. We assembled more than 14,000 colleagues, including over 2,850 skilled and compassionate doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners equipped with the latest technologies, treatments, and techniques to provide exceptional care close to home. A Magnet-recognized health system ranked by U.S. News and World Report, we've received multiple awards for quality, safety, and outstanding work environment. In addition to five hospitals, seven emergency departments, seven urgent care centers, and more than 280 other locations, we're committed to the well-being of the community. That means bringing life-changing resources and health services directly into our communities through our Eat Well food access program, telehealth, home health, rehabilitation, mobile screenings, paramedic programs, and convenient online scheduling. We're also affiliated with Penn Medicine for cancer and neurosciences, and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for pediatrics.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Marlton, NJ, US

Year founded

1998