Cytotechnologist - Northwest

Cytotechnologist

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is seeking a skilled Cytotechnologist to support the Cytopathology department through high-quality laboratory diagnostics and patient care services. The Cytotechnologist plays a vital role in evaluating cytologic specimens, ensuring diagnostic accuracy, and supporting clinical decision-making within a fast-paced, highly specialized laboratory environment. The Cytopathology department is focused on delivering precise specimen evaluation, advanced laboratory techniques, and collaborative support for patient diagnosis and treatment planning.

The Cytotechnologist at UT MD Anderson contributes directly to the mission of eliminating cancer through excellence in patient care, research, education, and prevention. As a Cytotechnologist, this position requires advanced technical expertise, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards in laboratory practices. The Cytotechnologist is integral to ensuring timely and accurate cytologic assessments while supporting interdisciplinary collaboration across UT MD Anderson.

The ideal candidate for the Cytotechnologist role demonstrates strong technical expertise in cytology specimen evaluation, experience with laboratory procedures and quality control, and the ability to work collaboratively in a clinical environment; education, experience, and certifications should align with professional cytotechnology standards.

Minimum $37.26 Midpoint $46.63 Maximum $56.01 hourly Work Location: Onsite

Why Us? Working as a Cytotechnologist at UT MD Anderson offers the opportunity to contribute directly to life-changing cancer care while developing advanced diagnostic expertise in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. This role supports professional growth, continuous learning, and strong work-life balance while playing a key role in improving patient outcomes through accurate and timely cytological analysis.

Responsibilities

• Laboratory Testing & Specimen Processing
• Accession and process all cytology specimens following established procedures
• Ensure accurate specimen identification at all stages of handling
• Assist in procurement and triage of fine needle aspiration (FNA) samples
• Participate in main campus cytology rotations and on-call coverage for after-hours STAT procedures
• Perform advanced procedures including cell block preparations, cell transfer, and density gradient preparations
• Evaluate GMS and iron staining for identification of cellular tissues and pathogens in BAL specimens
• Prepare reagents according to precise protocols and maintain stain hood readiness
• Assist with routine equipment maintenance

• Diagnostic Evaluation & Reporting
• Evaluate gynecologic (main campus only), non-gynecologic, and FNA specimens microscopically
• Render accurate cytologic diagnoses in a timely manner
• Complete annual proficiency testing for gynecologic screening
• Document diagnoses accurately in the pathology database per guidelines
• Apply knowledge of pre-analytical processes for troubleshooting and problem resolution

• Quality Control & Assurance
• Participate in interlaboratory slide reviews for non-gynecologic cytopathology
• Support process improvement initiatives within the laboratory
• Evaluate specimen integrity and communicate unacceptable specimens to appropriate personnel
• Perform and document all required QC/QA measures accurately and thoroughly
• Maintain detailed records for pre-analytical and post-analytical indicators

• Education & Development
• Assist in teaching cytology students through group microscopy sessions and presentations
• Contribute to special projects and departmental initiatives as assigned

EDUCATION

• Required: Bachelor's Degree Related science field (Biology, Chemistry, Physiology) or graduation from a school of Exfoliative Cytology approved by the CAHEA (Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation).
• NOTE: Cytotechnologists registered before August 1988 did not need a Bachelor's degree.

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Required: None

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Required: CT - Cytotechnologist American Society of Clinical Pathologist (ASCP) Board of Certification. Upon Hire

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team recognition. This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment. It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state, or local laws unless such distinction is required by law.