Cytotechnologist

Cytotechnologist

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Full-Time | 6:00am - 2:30pm

Why You’ll Love Working Here

As a Cytotechnologist at UNC Health Appalachian, you’ll play a crucial role in detecting cancer and other pathological conditions through expert evaluation of cytologic specimens. Your work supports life-saving diagnoses and contributes directly to exceptional patient care. You’ll collaborate with pathologists, uphold strict quality and safety standards, and help maintain diagnostic accuracy in a mission-driven healthcare environment located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

• Compensation: Starting pay begins at $19.85 per hour, with competitive rates based on experience, education, and certification.
• Schedule: Full-time, day shift; may include occasional irregular hours.
• Benefits: Comprehensive medical/dental/vision coverage, retirement with employer match, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, wellness incentives, and employee discounts.

What You’ll Do as a Cytotechnologist

• Screen and interpret cytologic slides to detect malignant, premalignant, and infectious conditions.

• Ensure correct preparation, staining, and documentation of cytology specimens.

• Collaborate with pathologists and lab personnel to maintain diagnostic accuracy and timely reporting.

• Maintain compliance with all federal, state, and institutional regulations related to cytologic procedures.

• Participate in internal quality control and quality assurance programs to support laboratory excellence.

• Uphold safety standards and infection control procedures in all cytology workflows.

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree and successful completion of a CAHEA-accredited Cytotechnology Program.

Experience:

• Minimum of five (5) years of full-time cytology experience in a clinical setting under a licensed physician.

Licenses/Certifications:

• CT (ASCP) or SCT (ASCP) certification required.

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association required at hire.

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong analytical skills and expertise in evaluating cellular morphology.

• Excellent documentation, organization, and decision-making abilities.

• Commitment to patient safety, accuracy, and regulatory compliance.

• Effective communication and teamwork skills with pathologists and lab staff.

Physical & Work Environment

• Frequent sitting, standing, and repetitive fine motor work for detailed slide evaluation.

• Lift, carry, push, or pull up to and over 50 lbs as needed.

• Frequent bending, squatting, and reaching.

• Continuous close eye work and exposure to laboratory reagents.

• Exposure to bloodborne pathogens, chemicals, mechanical equipment, and lab environment risks.

• May work irregular hours including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

What Sets Us Apart

• Career Growth: Access ongoing education, certification support, and advancement pathways within a progressive health system.
• Impactful Work: Contribute to early detection, diagnosis, and improved patient outcomes across the region.
• Community & Lifestyle: Boone offers scenic mountain living, outdoor adventure, and a thriving local community — consistently recognized by Forbes and Southern Living as one of the best small towns in America.
• Inclusive Culture: We value diversity, equity, and inclusion — fostering a workplace where every team member feels respected and empowered.

Ready to make a meaningful impact through diagnostic excellence?
Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian and help support life-saving patient care through expert cytologic evaluation.

About UNC Health Appalachian
It's official - UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" in the fall 2023 Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades! UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian stays committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply “making life better.”

About UNC Health
UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org.

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.

Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background and drug screen. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.