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Cytology Prep Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Talent4Health

Local Contract Cytotechnologist

Harvey, IL · On-site

$2.8K/wk

Cytotechnologist (Cyto Tech) Start Date: 06/22/2026(flexiable) Contract Length: 13 Weeks Schedule ... Experience with Gynecological and Non-Gynecological Cytology Required Skills * ThinPrep and ...

Eisenhower

Lab Tech Aide I

Rancho Mirage, CA

$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 ...

Eisenhower

Lab Tech Aide I

Rancho Mirage, CA

$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 ...

Eisenhower

Lab Tech Aide I

Rancho Mirage, CA

$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 ...

Eisenhower

Lab Tech Aide I

Rancho Mirage, CA

$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 ...

Eisenhower

Lab Tech Aide I

Rancho Mirage, CA

$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 ...

Eisenhower

Lab Tech Aide I

Rancho Mirage, CA

$24/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 ...

Eisenhower

Lab Tech Aide I

Rancho Mirage, CA

$24/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 ...

Mercury Animal

VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Hampton, VA · On-site

Be able to perform laboratory procedures (including hematology, cytology, CBC, chemistry, U/A ... Associate Degree in Veterinary Technology Veterinary Technician Certification or Licensure ...

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Cytology Prep Tech information

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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:
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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.
Cyto Preparatory Tech - Anatomic Pathology Core Lab - Days

Cyto Preparatory Tech - Anatomic Pathology Core Lab - Days

VCU Health System

Richmond, VA

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Process gynecologic, non-gynecologic, and fine needle aspiration biopsy samples for microscopic evaluation using various laboratory techniques.

  • Call a patient's physician to obtain additional information and solve problems with patient or specimen identification.

  • Determine specimen adequacy and process specimens for ancillary studies such as cell blocks and immunohistochemical stains.

VCU Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 169 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

328th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

The Cytology Preparatory Tech processes gynecologic, non-gynecologic and fine needles aspiration biopsy samples from patients of all ages for microscopic evaluation and interpretation to include centrifugation, cytocentrifugation, saponization, liquid based monolayer techniques, staining and cover slipping.Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for Hire: N/A Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for continued employment: Surepath Prep Certification preferred Experience REQUIRED: Minimum of two (2) years of laboratory experience in centrifugation, dilutions, cytocentrifugation, staining, cover slipping, solution making, pipetting and filtering Experience PREFERRED: N/A Education/training REQUIRED: High School or equivalent Education/training PREFERRED: Bachelor's Degree in a Life Science or related field Independent action(s) required: Call a patient's physician to obtain additional information and solve a problem with patient and/or specimen identification. Must determine specimen adequacy in order to prepare the prescribed number of slides for microscopic evaluation and process the specimen for ancillary studies such as cell blocks, immunohistochemical stains, etc. Must decide if specimen contains excess blood or mucus so the proper procedure can be followed to rid the specimen of these elements to optimize cellular visualization. Supervisory responsibilities (if applicable): N/A Additional position requirements: N/A Age Specific groups served: All Physical Requirements (includes use of assistance devices as appropriate): Physical Lifting 20-50 lbs. Activities: Prolonged standing, Repetitive motion Mental/Sensory: Strong recall, Reasoning, Problem solving, Hearing, Speak clearly, Write legibly, Reading, Logical thinking Emotional: Steady pace, Able to handle multiple prioritiesDays

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