Cytotechnologists

What the job really is

Stain, mount, and study cells to detect evidence of cancer, hormonal abnormalities, and other pathological conditions following established standards and practices.

At a glance

• Sector: Healthcare Practitioners
• O*NET-SOC code: 29-2011
• O*NET job zone: 5 — extensive preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Examine cell samples to detect abnormalities in the color, shape, or size of cellular components and patterns.
• Document specimens by verifying patients' and specimens' information.
• Submit slides with abnormal cell structures to pathologists for further examination.
• Prepare and analyze samples, such as Papanicolaou (PAP) smear body fluids and fine needle aspirations (FNAs), to detect abnormal conditions.
• Examine specimens, using microscopes, to evaluate specimen quality.
• Maintain effective laboratory operations by adhering to standards of specimen collection, preparation, or laboratory safety.
• Provide patient clinical data or microscopic findings to assist pathologists in the preparation of pathology reports.
• Assist pathologists or other physicians to collect cell samples by fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy or other method.
• Prepare cell samples by applying special staining techniques, such as chromosomal staining, to differentiate cells or cell components.
• Adjust, maintain, or repair laboratory equipment, such as microscopes.
• Assign tasks or coordinate task assignments to ensure adequate performance of laboratory activities.
• Attend continuing education programs that address laboratory issues.

Tools and technology

Ansible software, MEDITECH software, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Word, Analytical balances, Antek HealthWare LabDAQ, Aspyra CyberLAB, Autoclaves, Automatic coverslippers, Automatic slide stainers, Automatic tissue processors

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
• Cytogenetic Technologists
• Histotechnologists
• Histology Technicians
• Physicians, Pathologists
• Neurodiagnostic Technologists
• Radiologists
• Phlebotomists

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 5 (extensive preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

Browse the verified job sources directory, or explore more occupations.

Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Cytotechnologists — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.