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Cytotechnologist Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Edited by Indeed Employer Content Team
Last updated November 6, 2025
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5 min read

A Cytotechnologist, or cytologist, performs various tasks related to medical testing in clinical laboratories. Their duties include preparing slides of human cells, examining slides with a microscope and reporting diagnoses.

Cytotechnologist duties and responsibilities

Cytotechnologists are clinical laboratory technologists who handle, examine and report on samples of human cells obtained from different parts of the body such as the lungs and reproductive tract. Their work is vital to ensuring that an institution, clinic or office can accurately diagnose infectious diseases, cancerous and precancerous lesions, and various conditions that cause inflammation. As a result, working efficiently to clear a high volume of samples with accuracy is their key job responsibility. Day-to-day duties include: 

  • Assisting with the collection of needle aspiration samples
  • Preparing slides by staining samples
  • Using microscopes to examine cellular samples
  • Evaluating samples while following laboratory protocols
  • Calibrating, troubleshooting, checking and maintaining microscopes and other laboratory equipment
  • Entering diagnostic information into computer systems

Hire your next Cytotechnologist today.

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Cytotechnologist Job Description Examples

Example 1

Perform the screening of non-gynecological cytological specimens, including fine needle aspirations, in order to achieve an accurate diagnosis. Experience with ROSE procedures and cytopreparation techniques is also desirable.

Qualifications:

ASCP certified cytotechnologist

Additional Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Science. 3 Years of cytotechnologist experience preferred.

Minimum Required Experience: 1 Year

Hospital based experience preferred



Located in central/eastern Maine, an hour away from beautiful Acadia National Park and surrounding "Downeast" Maine, the Bangor community provides a great quality of life with safe, quiet neighborhoods, affordable land and housing, good local schools and superb four season recreational opportunities.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Relocation assistance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift



Application Question(s):
  • Have you been vaccinated for Covid?

Education:
  • Bachelor's Location: In person

Example 2

General Summary:
Under general supervision, prepares and stains specimens from any body site and
microscopically examines their cellular structures to detect cancer and other
abnormalities. Responsible for issuing diagnostic reports on normal (negative)
gynecological specimens. Assists clinician at the aspiration biopsy site by preparing
smears, proper collection and processing of the specimen.

Principal Duties AND Responsibilities:
1. As per departmental guidelines, processes the specimens and stains the smears.
Microscopically examines prepared, stained smears to detect structural abnormalities.
Classifies smears based on cellular knowledge as normal (negative), abnormal and
diagnostic of cancer. Correlate surgical reports from HFH anatomic pathology with
cytologic findings. Total number of slides screened not to exceed the limit set by CLIA
88.

2. Rotate on technical processing, cubicle position, and NGYN screening according to
schedule set by leader/supervisor.

3. For gynecological specimens (Pap smears), determine which cases should be further
evaluated by the cytopathologist, formulate and issue diagnostic reports on normal
(negative) cases, and perform follow-up triage on all cases routed to the pathologist
before finalization of reports.

4. Assist with instructional training of MLT, cytotechnology students, residents, fellows,
and the orientation of new staff.

5. Maintains competency in the use of information systems used for daily work.



Education/Experience Required:

  • A Bachelors Degree with successful completion in Caahep accredited program in
cytotechnology or fulfill CLIA88 requirements for cytotechnologist as stated in Federal
Register 493.1483, if prior to 1992.
  • Ability to sit for long periods of time at a microscope.
Vision
  • Near Acuity: Ability to see clearly at 20 inches or less.
Depth Perception: Ability to judge distance and space relationships.
Accommodation: Ability to adjust vision to bring objects into focus.
  • Color Vision: Ability to distinguish and identify different colors necessary to perform job
functions.

Licensures AND Certifications Required:

  • ASCP eligibility or certification in cytotechnology.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Evening shift
  • Monday to Friday



Application Question(s):
  • Do you hold a Bachelors Degree with successful completion in Caahep accredited program in
cytotechnology or fulfill CLIA88 requirements for cytotechnologist as stated in Federal
Register 493.1483, if prior to 1992?
  • Do you have ASCP certification in Cytotechnology or are you registry Location: In person

Example 3

Work Schedule:Monday-Friday: 8:00am-4:30pm (4 openings)


JOB Summary:
The person in this position is a Cytotechnologist who is responsible for examining cells on glass slides to detect evidence of diseased conditions and pre-malignant and malignant cells.
Essential Functions:

  • Examines gynecological and/or non-gynecological slides daily according to department protocols.
  • Records findings in computer system.
  • Records required data on daily screening and departmental logs.
  • Identify and correct problems that may adversely affect test performance or result reporting of patient samples.
  • Communicates pertinent section information/issues to supervisor, manager or other appropriate individual.
  • Performs instrument maintenance and method troubleshooting.
  • Assists in documentation and maintaining effective department QA/QC programs and monitors.
  • Must perform within the productivity expectations as set forth by current departmental guidelines.
  • Exercise all laboratory safety precautions and adhere to lab procedures as stated in procedure manuals.
  • Perform all job responsibilities in alignment with the industry's best security practices and regulatory guidelines to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of protected health information and other sensitive company data.
  • Must be familiar with and abide by the Corporate Compliance Program and all Corporate policies, including the Privacy and Security policies.

Education & Licensure:

  • Minimum of two years of college and graduation from an approved School of Cytotechnology
  • National certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) as a Cytotechnologist.
  • Must hold a valid Tennessee Cytotechnologist License.
  • Maintains appropriate continuing education for certification and licensure.

Requirements:

  • Minimum of one (1) year experience as a Cytotechnologist screening gynecological and non-gynecological slides preferred.

Job Type: Full-time



Application Question(s):
  • Do you have a minimum of two years of college and graduation from an approved School of Cytotechnology?
  • Do you have a national certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) as a Cytotechnologist?
  • Do you hold a valid Tennessee Cytotechnologist License?
  • Do you have a minimum of one (1) year experience as a Cytotechnologist screening gynecological and non-gynecological Location: In person

Example 4

Cytotechnologist | Schaumburg, IL

Monday to Friday (Rotating Weekends)

$20,000 sign on Bonus,



Job Responsibilities:

  • Microscopically examine and diagnose gynecologic and non-gynecologic slides for infectious, pre-malignant, and malignant disease processes.
  • Perform all duties as required by CLIA. These duties include, but are not limited to, the daily documenting of interpretations to include the total number of slides screened and the total number of hours spent screening.
  • Maintain specimen integrity and patient identification of all samples examined.
  • Enter and report results into the laboratory information system.
  • Maintain confidentiality of patient test results in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
  • Comply with all local, federal, CLIA and CAP regulations
  • Participate successfully in a CMS approved proficiency-testing program annually, as applicable.

Job Requirements:

  • Bachelor s degree in clinical lab, physical, or biological science
  • Meet CLIA requirements (CFR. 493. 1483)
  • Meet ASCP requirements for Cytotechnologist (if not certified prior to employment, must pass ASCP registry within one year of start date).
  • Meet state licensure requirements, if applicable.
  • Liquid-based cytology training/certification (Thin Prep and/or Surepath), preferred.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day Location: In person

Example 5

Cytotechnologist, South Bend

We are currently in search of a cytotechnologist to work in our multi-specialty pathology practice. Responsibilities include:

  • Examining non-gyn cytology samples with an appropriate slide review rate
FNA collections and ROSE assessments using telepathology on EBUS, Navigational and Monarch bronchoscopies and FNA procedures.
  • Adequately assesses the appropriate use of diagnostic categories using current Bethesda terminology.
  • Performs quality control and/or quality assurance functions using
CLIA 88 established guidelines.
  • Routes slides and paperwork using appropriate department methods.
Provides support to the specimen preparation area and clerical functions within the department, if necessary.
  • Maintains competency assessment with established department and CLIA 88 guidelines.

Hours for this position have a flexible start of 7:30 a.m. working eight-hour shifts. No weekends or holidays are required.

Requirements include:

  • Qualified as a cytotechnologist under CFR 493.1483 with certification as a Cytotechnologist by an appropriate accrediting agency i.e., ASCP or equivalent. (Prefer Bachelor s Degree)
  • Demonstrates the capability of accurate evaluation of cytology samples.
  • Requires eye-hand coordination and visual acuity necessary to perform the duties assigned to the department.
  • Requires the ability to make color distinctions.
  • Valid driver s license as the position requires travel to our client hospital sites.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 8 hour Location: One location

Example 6

Special Vitana Bonus - $500

Weekly pay includes taxable wage and per diems (non taxable stipend) if eligible

Vitana Inc (JCAHO accredited) is hiring a Cytotechnologist or Cyto Tech for a facility at White Plains, NY

3 years experience as Cytotechnologist required.

Experience in screening gynecological, non-gynecological specimens and fine needle aspirations. Should be Familiar with Bethesda system for Cytology reporting.
  • ThinPrep Certification preferred.

Certificates:ASCP (CT ) License, BLS certified by AHA, Co-vid card, Crisis Protocol approved. (Bachelor's Degree preferred.)

Job Type: Contract

Pay: From $3,072.00 per week

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Referral program
  • Relocation assistance
  • Vision insurance
Medical specialties:
  • Pathology
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
Supplemental pay types:
  • Signing bonus



Education:
  • Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:
  • Cytotechnology: 3 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:
  • ASCP (CT) (Preferred)
  • BLS certified by AHA (Preferred)
  • CPI Certification Location: In person

Example 7

Cytotechnologist - Rocky Hill, CT - Monday-Friday

***$15K Sign On Bonus*

JOB Responsibilities:

1. Microscopically examine and diagnose gynecologic and non-gynecologic slides for infectious, pre-malignant, and malignant disease processes.
2. Perform all duties as required by CLIA. These duties include, but are not limited to, the daily documenting of interpretations to include the total number of slides screened and the total number of hours spent screening.
3. All other duties as assigned.

Other Duties:
1. Maintain specimen integrity and patient identification of all samples examined.
2. Enter and/or report results into the laboratory information system, as applicable.
3. Maintain confidentiality of patient test results in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
4. Adhere to and document required quality control activities.
5. Comply with all corporate, safety, quality control and quality assurance standards.
6. Comply with all local, federal, CLIA and CAP regulations
7. Participate successfully in required training and competency assessment.
8. Participate successfully in a CMS approved proficiency-testing program annually, as applicable.
9. Acquire and document required number of continuing education hours annually.
10. Perform other duties as assigned, (e. g., specimen processing, data entry) to include performing and documenting quality control rescreening, if qualified under CFR 493. 1469

JOB Requirements:

1. Meet CLIA requirements (CFR. 493. 1483).
2. Meet state licensure requirements, if applicable.
3. Meet ASCP requirements for Cytotechnologist (if not certified prior to employment, must pass ASCP registry within one year of start date).
4. Liquid-based cytology training/certification (Thin Prep and/or Surepath), preferred.

Education:
Bachelor's degree in clinical lab, physical, or biological science. CT (ASCP) eligible or registered.

Work Experience:
1 year minimum; 3+ year's clinical lab experience preferred.

Special Requirements:
-Must be conscientious and thorough.
-Ability to concentrate at the microscope.
-Able to work alone and handle stressful circumstances.

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekend availability

Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Rocky Hill, CT: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Education:
  • Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:
  • Clinical laboratory: 3 years (Required)

License/Certification:
  • CNA (Preferred)
  • Medical Technologist Location: One location

Example 8

Cytotechnologist Summary: Stains, mounts, and studies cells of human body to detect evidence of cancer, hormonal abnormalities, and other pathological conditions by performing the following duties. Consults with pathologists.

CytotechnologistEssential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned:
  • Receives PAP Smears and other body fluids such as urine, pleural, or ascitic fluid and may assist in the collection of fine needle aspiration biopsies from patients.
  • Centrifuges fluid specimens and prepares the respective glass slides for cytological examination.
  • Stains prepared glass slides with the appropriate stains.
  • Utilizing microscopic technique, screens glass slides according to established procedure for detecting abnormal or cancerous cells.
  • Records classification on appropriate report and present slides with suspicious or unusual cell structure to pathologist for definitive diagnosis and decision as to whether biospy or further cytologic study is necessary.
  • Maintains abnormal specimen log and correlates test results with follow up biospies.
  • Assists the section in meeting the standards set forth by JCAHO, CLIA, CAP and other governing bodies.
  • Maintains proficiency testing as set forth by governing bodies.
  • Catalogs and files slides as directed by governing bodies.
  • Assures that workload recording is accurate and complete.
  • Maintains inventory and orders supplies for the section.
  • Prepares chemical reagents and items used in performing tests.

CytotechnologistSafety
  • Follows all applicable OSHA guidelines.
  • Follows all hospital and departmental safety policies.
  • Performs duties in a timely manner, utilizing effective organization/time management.

CytotechnologistQualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

CytotechnologistEducation/Experience:

Bachelor's degree (BSc) from four-year college or university specializing in cytotechnology.

CytotechnologistCertificates and Licenses:

Cytotechnologist CT(ASCP) or registery eligible (must take and pass registry within six months of hire date).

Our company provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
Medical Specialty:
  • Ob/Gyn
  • Pathology
Schedule:
  • 8 hour Location: One location

Example 9

Convergent Laboratories is actively seeking a Cytotechnologist to join their team in Allen, TX today!

About:

The Cytotechnologist receives, identifies and accesses all gynecological smears and non-gynecological specimens submitted for cytological evaluation. The technologist will work under the direct supervision of the General Supervisor processing cytologic specimens and render cytological evaluations of specimens in accordance with departmental testing procedures and policies. This role is responsible for preparing diagnostic reports.

Responsibilities:
  • Perform microscopic evaluation of cytological specimens per laboratory procedures and workload policies.
  • Prepare a final diagnosis on negative/normal gynecologic specimens.
  • Prepare provisional diagnosis on all other cases and refers these for review.
  • Enter the diagnosis into the LIS system.
  • Maintain absolute integrity in the accurate performance and reporting of results and observes professional discretion with patient information.
  • Complete work consistently within acceptable time limits.
  • Follow all established policies of department Quality Assurance protocol.
  • Maintain accurate individual workload and other appropriate records as required by the laboratory and various regulatory agencies.
  • Perform and document routine maintenance on microscopes and other laboratory equipment to ensure optimal instrument operation.
  • Document the slide interpretation results of each gynecologic and non- gynecologic cytological case examined or reviewed
  • Document the total number of slides examined in the laboratory for each 24-hour period as well as the number of slides examined in any other laboratory.
  • Document the number of hours spent examining slides in each 24-hour period.
  • Adheres to personnel policies including, but not limited to: schedules and attendance, performance evaluations, up to date safety training and continuing education required for competency as well as certification maintenance.
  • Participates in regulatory agency inspection readiness and onsite inspections.
  • Prepares solutions and reagents in accordance with standard procedures.
  • Adheres to internal controls established for department.
  • Adheres to all safety protocols in each laboratory area. Observe strict safety precautions when handling biological specimens and chemicals.
  • Performs related duties as required and at the discretion of the manager or director.
  • Participates in the quality assurance and continuous process improvement program including quality monitors, incident reports, corrective actions, and documentation.
  • Communicates effectively and timely as needed to co-workers, management, medical directors, and other divisions.
  • Specific job requirement or physical location of some positions allocated to the classification, may render this position security sensitive, and thereby require personnel to adhere to HIPAA guidelines and patient safety measures as defined by regulatory standards.
  • Demonstrates the ability to understand relationship-orientated aspects of social effectiveness and to operate successfully in a variety of social exchanges
  • Understands and exhibits exemplary knowledge of their industry / role
  • Prioritizes results and focuses resources and effort to achieve them
  • Focuses on the ability to accurately assess a situation and arrive at a positive solution
  • Performs assigned tasks according to prescribed procedures
  • Ensures departmental production and quality standards are maintained
  • Delivers quality work during allotted timeframes
  • Demonstrates appropriate knowledge and proficiency in Laboratory settings

Requirements:
  • Bachelors Degree in a Biological, Chemical or Clinical Laboratory Science.
  • Graduate from an accredited School of Cytotechnology AND Certified in Cytotechnology by an HHS approved agency (ASCP)
  • Meet CLIA requirements (CFR. 493. 1483)
  • Must be analyzed for color perception.

Job Types: Part-time, PRN

Pay: $28.00 - $38.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • Flexible schedule
Medical Specialty:
  • Pathology
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • On call
Supplemental Pay:
  • Signing bonus

Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Allen, TX 75002: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

License/Certification:
  • CT (ASCP) License Location: One location

Example 10

About ANGLE:

ANGLE is a world-leading liquid biopsy company with offices in Guildford (UK), Toronto (Canada) and Greater Philadelphia area (USA). ANGLE's patented liquid biopsy platform and associated assays have the potential to be used throughout the cancer care pathway to provide clinicians with individualized, up-to-date, and clinically actionable insight into every patient's cancer. This could enable patients to receive timely, personalized treatment and improve clinical outcomes.

Liquid biopsies involve sampling and analysis of peripheral blood to identify signs of cancer. Liquid biopsy is minimally invasive and can be undertaken safely in community clinics to provide patients with a rapid diagnosis and timely treatment with targeted therapies. Liquid biopsy may also help to safely monitor cancer patients in remission to provide early warning of recurrence.

In 2021 ANGLE opened GCLP compliant clinical laboratories in Guildford (UK) and in the Greater Philadelphia area (USA) to provide pharma services for cancer drug trials and, once the labs are accredited, laboratory developed tests (LDTs) for patient management. We are also pursuing an FDA product clearance for the Parsortix system and have submitted a full De Novo submission, which is currently in substantive review with the FDA.

Join our Team:

This is an exciting time at ANGLE and we are a looking for a Clinical Scientist I Cytotechnologist to join our Clinical Laboratory team in Plymouth Meeting.

The Clinical Scientist 1 Cytotechnologist plays a crucial part in the discovery and detection of disease, cancer, and pre-cancerous changes in cells. The incumbent employs their cytology expertise to compare normal and abnormal cell anatomy and evaluate the significance of the differences to identify disease in various stages.

At ANGLE, we foster a dynamic, entrepreneurial approach to translating leading edge translational research into clinical diagnostics. We offer the potential for significant corporate growth and career development. We promote a culture of collaboration and shared excellence while encouraging an open and honest exchange of ideas.

We are always in search of potential employees who share our vision and want to make a difference today. In your submission, please describe your background and what you can bring to our team along with attaching your resume.

Principal Accountabilities:
  • Process and analyze samples for circulating tumor cells or other rare events
  • Provide cytology expertise, working with R&D and other departments in the development and implementation of new assays
  • Assist in the development of laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Maintain regulatory compliance with CLIA and all other applicable regulations
  • Maintain safety guidelines for clinical laboratory environments
  • Perform such other duties and responsibilities that are consistent with the role of a Clinical Scientist 1 Cytotechnologist or as may be assigned from time to time

Qualifications, Experience, Knowledge and Attributes:
  • B.S. in Cytotechnology or Biology combined with 2 years' clinical laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of experience and formal education
  • Board certification as CT(ASCP)CM
  • Working knowledge of appropriate regulatory requirements (e.g. GCLP, ISO, CLIA, OSHA, Hazcom)
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
  • Strong scientific/technical aptitude
  • Exceptional organizational and time management skills
  • Strong team player with excellent communication skills essential
  • Good visual inspection skills combined with tolerance for repetitive work
  • Ability to learn highly specialized tasks including fluorescent microscopy and related software
  • Maintains an infallible degree of discretion, integrity, and confidentiality
  • Absolute integrity and respect for patient confidentiality when dealing with clinical samples
  • Strong team player with excellent interpersonal skills
  • Committed to continuous improvement of processes and/or products
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to multitask and prioritize to meet deadlines
  • Ability to work both independently with minimal supervision as well as in a team environment
  • An eye for detail and commitment to high quality data
  • Continuous learner with a keen appetite for cross-disciplinary work
  • A flexible, can-do approach to the requirements of the job
  • Entrepreneurial thinking and work ethic

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • License reimbursement
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:
  • Phlebotomy: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:
  • CNA (Preferred)
  • Certified Medical Assistant (Preferred)
  • Medical Technologist Location: One location
Our mission

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What does a Cytotechnologist do?

A Cytotechnologist typically works for institutions and businesses that deliver care to patients, such as hospitals, remote diagnostic testing centers, physicians’ offices and outpatient care centers. Their main job is to process cellular samples obtained through pap smears, needle aspirations, biopsies and other tests so that a physician can provide a diagnosis or rule out the existence of a condition. Experienced Cytotechnologists may serve as supervisors of other laboratory technicians and help train new employees.

Cytotechnologist skills and qualifications

A successful Cytotechnologist candidate should possess certain skills and qualifications that are essential for performing the daily duties you assign to them, including:

  • Demonstrated organizational skills to ensure the accuracy of records
  • Strong observational skills to identify abnormalities in cells that indicate a potential medical condition
  • Extensive knowledge of cytotechnology and a willingness to stay updated on scientific advances
  • Familiarity with microscopes to quickly and accurately study samples
  • Oral and written communication skills to share information with other laboratory technicians and pathologists
  • Computer skills to utilize pathology information systems used to record test results and make diagnoses
  • Dexterity to safely handle needles and operate laboratory equipment
  • Ability to remain stationary for long periods and help move patients during specimen collection

Cytotechnologist experience requirements

Typically, new Cytotechnologists work under the supervision of more experienced coworkers. During this initial period, the laboratory technician’s work is usually double-checked for accuracy. As their experience grows, their work may only require spot-checking for quality control. One to two years of supervised work experience is usually necessary for a Cytotechnologist to begin processing samples independently. Senior Cytotechnologists who serve as supervisors and trainers typically need three or more years of experience working in the role.

Cytotechnologist education and training requirements

Successful candidates for Cytotechnologist positions will typically hold a bachelor’s degree in medical technology, biology or a related field. Those who attended a cytotechnology program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) may be preferred because they have received specialized training based on clinical pathology best practices. As of November 2021, Cytotechnologists in California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, New York, North Dakota, Tennessee and West Virginia must obtain a license before working in a laboratory. Licensing requirements vary from state to state but usually include completion of a degree program. You may prefer to hire a Cytotechnologist who has CT-ASCP certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

Cytotechnologist salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Cytotechnologist is $65,685 per year. Salaries vary based on geographic location, education, certification status and previous work experience.

Cytotechnologist salary expectations

2025-10-011200.002473.793900.00WEEKLY
  • Common salary: 2473.79 WEEKLY
  • Typical salaries range from 1200.00 - 3900.00 WEEKLY
  • Find more information on Indeed Salaries

*Indeed data – 2025-10-01

Job description samples for similar positions

If the Cytotechnologist job description doesn’t fully reflect the duties and responsibilities of your open position, check out the descriptions of these related jobs: 

Cytotechnologist job description FAQs

How does someone become a certified Cytotechnologist?

To gain CT-ASP certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology, cytologists must complete a CAAHEP-accredited program. Normally, the program is the final year of a four-year course of study for a bachelor’s degree in clinical laboratory science or medical technology. Those who meet the educational requirements can register for the written certification exam consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions.

What should you look for in the resume of a Cytotechnologist?

The education section of a resume is particularly important. Successful candidates should have a bachelor’s degree. It is advisable to have a list of CAAHEP-accredited educational programs available to refer to so that you can easily spot candidates who have attended this type of program. Depending on the amount of supervision the prospective Cytotechnologist will have on the job, you may wish to consider candidates who have previous work experience or are familiar with the pathology information system software used by your office or institution. In states where licensing is required, look for confirmation of a valid license.

Do Cytotechnologists have different responsibilities in different industries?

If you’re filling a job for a health care provider, such as a hospital or physician’s office, the main responsibility of the Cytotechnologist you hire will be to accurately analyze samples to assist with the diagnostic process. If the open position is in a research laboratory, such as one operated by a university or pharmaceutical company, the main job duty is to gather data for clinical studies and trials rather than diagnostic purposes. As a result, a Cytotechnologist may need to perform additional analytical and clerical work while processing samples.

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