Occupation
Cytotechnologists
Stain, mount, and study cells to detect evidence of cancer, hormonal abnormalities, and other pathological conditions following established standards and practices.
$62,930 medianBelow-avg outlookGraduate degree
O*NET 31.0 · 29-2011.02
A typical week, in the words of people in the job
- 01Examine cell samples to detect abnormalities in the color, shape, or size of cellular components and patterns.
- 02Document specimens by verifying patients' and specimens' information.
- 03Submit slides with abnormal cell structures to pathologists for further examination.
- 04Prepare and analyze samples, such as Papanicolaou (PAP) smear body fluids and fine needle aspirations (FNAs), to detect abnormal conditions.
- 05Examine specimens, using microscopes, to evaluate specimen quality.
- 06Maintain effective laboratory operations by adhering to standards of specimen collection, preparation, or laboratory safety.
- 07Provide patient clinical data or microscopic findings to assist pathologists in the preparation of pathology reports.
- 08Assist pathologists or other physicians to collect cell samples by fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy or other method.
- 09Prepare cell samples by applying special staining techniques, such as chromosomal staining, to differentiate cells or cell components.
- 10Adjust, maintain, or repair laboratory equipment, such as microscopes.
- 11Assign tasks or coordinate task assignments to ensure adequate performance of laboratory activities.
- 12Attend continuing education programs that address laboratory issues.
Task statements ranked by how many workers report them · O*NET 31.0
What the posting will be called
CytologistCytology Applications SpecialistCytology CoordinatorCytotechnologistCytology Technical Specialist
Titles reported by employers for this occupation. Search job boards with these, not the O*NET name.
Knowledge the job leans on
BiologyMedicine and DentistryEnglish LanguageAdministrativeChemistryCustomer and Personal ServiceComputers and ElectronicsMathematics
Skills that carry over from service
Complex Problem SolvingJudgment and Decision MakingSocial PerceptivenessTime ManagementService OrientationCoordinationInstructingOperations Monitoring