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Cytopathology Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Change Cytology FNA stains and reagents per section protocol. * Routine Daily Maintenance of instrumentation used in Cytology. * Assist in Cytology FNA procedures as needed. * Performs frozen ...

The Cytology Lab Assistant, who under the direction of the Cytology Supervisor or Manager, is responsible for specimen receiving and accessioning, gyn and non-gyn processing, receiving and making ...

Specialty Cytologist

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$34.64 - $48.21/hr

Perform minor repairs. * Assist Manager with the department staff annual performance evaluations by ... Present cytology conferences; assist with clinical administrative functions. * Perform quality ...

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Cytopathology Assistant information

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$14

$55

$89

How much do cytopathology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cytopathology assistant in the United States is $55.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.51 and $67.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cytopathology assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cytopathology Assistant, you need a background in biological sciences or laboratory technology, attention to detail, and familiarity with cytology specimen preparation. Experience with laboratory information systems (LIS), microscopes, and staining equipment, along with certification (such as ASCP), is often required. Strong organizational skills, communication, and the ability to work efficiently under time constraints are valuable soft skills. These qualifications ensure accurate specimen handling, support diagnostic accuracy, and maintain smooth laboratory operations.

What is a cytopathology assistant?

Cytopathology Assistants are laboratory professionals who support pathologists and cytotechnologists in the preparation, processing, and analysis of cellular samples for diagnostic purposes. They are responsible for specimen collection, labeling, slide preparation, staining, and maintaining laboratory equipment and records. Their work is essential in diagnosing diseases such as cancer by ensuring specimens are handled accurately and efficiently. Cytopathology Assistants also help maintain quality control within the laboratory to meet regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Cytopathology Assistant vs Cytotechnologist?

AspectCytopathology AssistantCytotechnologist
CredentialsTypically requires a certificate or associate degree in cytotechnology or related fieldRequires a cytotechnology certification and often a bachelor's degree
Work EnvironmentAssists pathologists in preparing and processing cytology specimens in labsAnalyzes cell samples under microscopes to detect abnormalities
Employer & IndustryHospitals, clinics, pathology labsHospitals, diagnostic laboratories, research facilities

While both roles support cytology labs, Cytopathology Assistants mainly prepare specimens and assist pathologists, whereas Cytotechnologists analyze cell samples for abnormalities. They often work together but have distinct responsibilities and certification requirements.

What are the typical responsibilities of a cytopathology assistant during a standard workweek?

A Cytopathology Assistant typically spends the week preparing and processing cytology specimens, such as Pap smears and fine needle aspirations, ensuring all samples are properly labeled and documented. They assist pathologists and cytotechnologists by managing sample accessioning, performing staining procedures, and maintaining laboratory equipment. Collaboration with laboratory staff is essential to maintain workflow efficiency and accuracy. Additionally, they may be responsible for administrative tasks, such as data entry and inventory management, which help support smooth laboratory operations.
More about Cytopathology Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Cytopathology Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Cytopathology Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cytopathology jobs? The most popular types of Cytopathology jobs are:
What states have the most Cytopathology Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Cytopathology Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cytopathology Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,082 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Cytologist - UPMC Harrisburg (Sign-On Bonus Included!)

UPMC - Pittsburgh Medical Center

Harrisburg, PA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

The Cytologist role offers a generous sign-on bonus paid out up front! ย New grads and those with less than one-year experience are eligible to receive a $12,000 bonus. ย Experienced Cytologists are eligible to receive a $15,000 bonus!

Purpose:
Make the final interpretation on the majority of negative Pap tests and render a diagnosis for consideration by the Pathologist on all other cell samples.
Responsibilities:
ย 

  • Assist with special projects and conferences.
  • Perform all responsibilities according to the philosophy of the UPMC Health System such that the needs of our customers are fulfilled.
  • Oversee and assist with problem solving of staining and cytopreparatory procedures; perform cytopreparation, staining and clerical functions as necessary.
  • Operate and maintain equipment within the scope of training utilizing defined schedules and written instructions to perform quality control checks, preventive maintenance, and calibration. Perform minor repairs.
  • Assume responsibility for first-line supervision of the section/department on a temporary basis as delegated.
  • Maintain in-depth knowledge of cytologic criteria and keep abreast of current developments in the field of cytology.
  • Assist with the collection of fine needle aspirations and other specimens as necessary following established procedures.
  • Perform evaluation of cell samples according to established protocols with accuracy in a timely and efficient manner.
  • Render diagnosis for consideration by Pathologist on all other cell samples and mark diagnostic areas on slide.
  • Interact with all laboratory customers courteously and professionally; respond to telephone inquiries in a timely manner.
  • Enter diagnoses on all patient cases in the Pathology Information System and sign out negative Pap tests.
  • Train and orient new employees, students and residents.
  • Correlate pertinent clinical history and obtain it when necessary as well as correlate current case with previous cytologic and/or surgical specimens.
  • Perform final sign out of diagnoses on the majority of Pap tests.
  • Adhere to established laboratory and hospital policies in areas of procedures, methods, quality control, quality assurance, safety, compliance and personnel policies.
  • Identify problems with instrumentation, methodology, specimens, supplies, or results and take appropriate action.
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university required.ย 
  • Successful completion of a CAHEA accredited Cytology program required; OR equivalent education and experience.ย 
  • 1-2 years experience as a Cytologist preferred.ย 
  • If practicing in New York State, Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university in cytotechnology or related science required.ย 
  • Pathology Information System experience preferred.
    Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
    Cytologist (CT (ASCP)) certification or registry eligible is required. If registry eligible, successful completion of the ASCP registry exam is required within 18 months from date of hire. New York State Cytotechnologist License or limited permit required. If practicing under a NYS limited permit, must obtain licensure prior to expiration of permit. Limited permits are only valid for 24 months from date of issuance and are non-renewable.
  • American Society for Clinical Pathology
  • Act 34


UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran