How to hire a cytology supervisor

How to hire a cytology supervisor, step by step

Here's a step-by-step cytology supervisor hiring guide:

• Step 1: Identify your hiring needs
• Step 2: Create an ideal candidate profile
• Step 3: Make a budget
• Step 4: Write a cytology supervisor job description
• Step 5: Post your job
• Step 6: Interview candidates
• Step 7: Send a job offer and onboard your new cytology supervisor
• Step 8: Go through the hiring process checklist

Post a cytology supervisor job for free, promote it for a fee

Post free

1. Identify your hiring needs

   Before you start hiring a cytology supervisor, identify what type of worker you actually need. Certain positions might call for a full-time employee, while others can be done by a part-time worker or contractor.

   Determine employee vs contractor status

   Is the person you're thinking of hiring a US citizen or green card holder?

   Yes

   No

   A cytology supervisor's background is also an important factor in determining whether they'll be a good fit for the position. For example, cytology supervisors from different industries or fields will have radically different experiences and will bring different viewpoints to the role. You also need to consider the candidate's previous level of experience to make sure they'll be comfortable with the job's level of seniority.

   This list presents cytology supervisor salaries for various positions.

   Type of Cytology Supervisor	Description	Hourly rate
   Cytology Supervisor	Medical laboratory technologists (commonly known as medical laboratory scientists) and medical laboratory technicians collect samples and perform tests to analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances.	$13-53
   Cytotechnologist	A Cytotechnologist evaluates specimens on glass slides using microscopes. They analyze fluid and tissue specimens for microscopic cellular abnormalities, such as bacterial and viral infections.	$12-45
   Laboratory Supervisor	The primary job of laboratory supervisors is to oversee the daily operations of laboratories. They are responsible for facilitating the collection, analysis, and interpretation of laboratory results... Show more	$22-46

2. Create an ideal candidate profile

   Common skills:

   • CLIA
   • Non-Gyn
   • Anatomic Pathology
   • FNA
   • LIS
   • Laboratory Operations
   • Microbiology
   • Procedure Manuals
   • Ebus
   • HPV
   • Proficiency Testing
   • IHC
   • Regulatory Agencies

   Responsibilities:

   • Manage and supervise the operations of the cytology department.
   • Assist in building and maintaining dictionaries within CoPath.
   • Prepare, stain, and screen NON-GYN cases including FNA.
   • Maintain and comply with HIPPA laws and regulations, policies and procedures.
   • Perform validation studies for laboratory information system upgrades.
   • Develop and supervise modified barium swallow program with radiology; develop dysphagia diet with hospital dieticians and train nursing staff.

3. Make a budget

   Including a salary range in your cytology supervisor job description is a great way to entice the best and brightest candidates. A cytology supervisor salary can vary based on several factors:

   • Location. For example, cytology supervisors' average salary in alabama is 51% less than in alaska.
   • Seniority. Entry-level cytology supervisors earn 74% less than senior-level cytology supervisors.
   • Certifications. A cytology supervisor with a few certifications under their belt will likely demand a higher salary.
   • Company. Working for a prestigious company or an exciting start-up can make a huge difference in a cytology supervisor's salary.

   Average cytology supervisor salary

   $57,071yearly

   $27.44 hourly rate

   ---

   Entry-level cytology supervisor salary

   $29,000 yearly salary

   Updated January 23, 2026

4. Writing a cytology supervisor job description

   A good cytology supervisor job description should include a few things:

   • Summary of the role
   • List of responsibilities
   • Required skills and experience

   Including a salary range and the first name of the hiring manager is also appreciated by candidates. Here's an example of a cytology supervisor job description:

   Cytology supervisor job description example

   Job Functions, Duties, Responsibilities and Position Qualifications:
   
   Summary
   
   Responsible for the overall operation of the Cytology Department. Plans, schedules, and oversees the departmental operations to ensure accurate and timely testing results while achieving maximum productivity. The supervisor coordinates the cytology group to perform specialized and complex technical tasks involved in screening slides of ctyological specimens to detect evidence of cancer or other pathological conditions.
   
   Qualifications
   
   Bachelor Degree in clinical laboratory, physical, chemical or biological sciences.Master degree preferred.Successful completion of a 12-month CAHEA accredited Cytotechnology Program.Current certification or registration by ASCP or equivalent agency.Current and valid State of Hawaii cytotechnologist license Minimum four (4) years as a cytotechnologist.Computer literate in applications such as Excel, Word, Outlook and Laboratory Information Systems.Strong problem-solving and decision making skills required.Passes company drug testing program pre-hire and thereafter on a periodic and/or random basis.Excellent organizational skills.
   Excellent English communication (verbal and written) skills, including by telephone.
   Demonstrated and proven ability/experience in accomplishments in all of our five core values:ShineTeamAccurateRespectStandardize
   
   Essential Functions
   
   Under limited supervision, and in accordance with Company policies, procedures and guidelines, this position:
   As Team supervisor, coordinates and participates in specialized and complex technical tasks involved in screening of slides of cytological specimens for evidence of cancer or other pathological conditions to include marking abnormalities, recording diagnosis and filing cases for subsequent review with pathologist.Coordinates and monitors all day to day activities in the cytology laboratory, including general equipment maintenance and general upkeep of the workspace.Coordinates services and technical activities of the cytology staff with partners such as the operating and radiology units for adequacy assessments of fine needle aspiration (FNA) smears or rapid on-site evaluations (R.O.S.E) during patient procedures.Updates the standard operating procedures of the cytology laboratory as required by all local, federal, CLIA and CAP regulations.Practices strict adherence to standard operating procedures, laboratory safety and infection control practices.Maintains certification through successful renewal with the ASCP BOC, if applicable.Obtains a passing score of at least 90% on the annual CAP proficiency test.Participates in the GYN and Non-GYN CAP Surveys to maintain a high proficiency level. Updates knowledge through literature and available resources.Certified to analyze thin-layer (ThinPrep) and ThinPrep Imaged slides.Consults with Pathologists regarding difficult analysis or abnormal findings.Reports normal and abnormal cytology results using the LIS.Ensures accurate patient information, accession numbers and other required information is recorded on all cytology specimens. Resolves discrepancies or omissions in patient/clinical information.Coordinates and/or assists in duties of the cytoprep area including the preparation and staining of gynecologic and non-gynecologic cytology specimens as needed.Monitors staff performance, completes and conducts periodic evaluations, counsels and disciplines staff as necessary in accordance with human resource guidelines.Maintains staff schedules, approves timesheets, approves and monitors PTO/vacations to ensure availability of staff necessary to effectively handle daily activities.Regularly trains team members and keeps them updated on any new policies/procedures and other information.Ensures all new hires into the department are properly trained following all protocols.Keeps abreast of all regulations governing cytology screening, safety and compliance.Adheres to confidentiality, safety, compliance, and legal requirements.Maintains consistent and reliable attendance and complies with company guidelines on attendance.Performs other duties as assigned.
   Physical Capabilities
   
   Light to moderate physical effort (lift/carry up to 25 lbs.) Occasional carrying, pushing, and pulling of objects.Occasional reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, crouching.Must be able to hear, see, and respond adequately.Frequent prolonged standing, walking, sitting, and bending over.Finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination.
   
   Working Environment
   
   Air conditioned laboratory environment in general Frequent exposure to video display terminals.Frequent contact with water (hand washing and cleaning), biohazardous body fluids, and occasional hazardous chemicals.Sufficient noise and interruptions which may cause distraction.May be asked to work extended hours.Work environment common to a hospital setting including working around patients with communicable disease.
   
   Skills/Abilities/Competencies
   
   CUSTOMER-FOCUSED: Aware of customer needs; makes decisions with customer in mind; builds strong customer relationships.COMMUNICATOR: Proactively conveys a clear, convincing, and timely message; possesses strong verbal, written, and presentation skills.PROBLEM SOLVER: Uses data and logic to quickly find solutions to difficult challenges.COLLABORATIVE: Works effectively with others to accomplish goals.TECHNICALLY COMPETENT: Possesses and maintains the functional and technical knowledge and skills to successfully perform job.RESULTS DRIVEN: Achievement-oriented; achieves and exceeds goals; pushes self and others for results.BUSINESS SAVVY: possesses business and organizational know-how; understands how to accomplish tasks through formal channels and informal networks.RESOURCEFUL: Knows how to get what is needed; manages time and workloads for maximum efficiency.TEAM BUILDER: Builds cohesive teams and strategic partnerships,INFLUENTIAL: Makes an impact on people, events, and decisions; affects the thinking or actions of others by means of example or personality.STRATEGIC: Thinks “big picture”; commits to a course of actions to accomplish long-range goals; is forward thinking and adept at seeing future outcomes and results.DELEGATOR: Effectively assigns work and responsibility; supports and provides feedback on performance.COACH: Equips individuals with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities to develop their skills and improve performance.TIME-WISE: Prioritizes; respects others' time; adheres to schedules and agendas.CHANGE AGENT: Initiates and promotes new approaches and transformations to reach a higher level of performance.ACCOUNTABLE: Follows through in all areas; accepts and delivers on responsibilities; requires others to follow through on commitments.
   
   Acknowledgement
   
   The above statements are intended to describe the general nature, type and level of work being performed by the employee(s) functioning in this position. The statements are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required. The Company reserves the right to add, delete or modify assigned duties at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. I have read and received the job description listed above and am responsible for following the job description outlined during my employment with the Company.
   
   Scheduled Weekly Hours:
   40
   
   Work Shift:
   
   Company:
   Clinical Laboratories of Hawaii, LLP
   
   Sonic Healthcare USA is an equal opportunity employer that celebrates diversity and is committed to an inclusive workplace for all employees. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

   Copy this example

   

5. Post your job

   There are various strategies that you can use to find the right cytology supervisor for your business:

   • Consider promoting from within or recruiting from your existing workforce.
   • Ask for referrals from friends, family members, and current employees.
   • Attend job fairs at local colleges to find candidates who meet your education requirements.
   • Use social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter to reach potential job candidates.

   Post your job online:

   • Post your cytology supervisor job on Zippia to find and attract quality cytology supervisor candidates.
   • Use niche websites such as healthcarejobsite, health jobs nationwide, hospitalcareers, medreps.com.
   • Post a job on free websites.

6. Interview candidates

   To successfully recruit cytology supervisors, your first interview needs to engage with candidates to learn about their interest in the role and experience in the field. You can go into more detail about the company, the role, and the responsibilities during follow-up interviews.

   You should also ask about candidates' unique skills and talents to see if they match the ideal candidate profile you developed earlier. Candidates good enough for the next step can complete the technical interview.

   The right interview questions can help you assess a candidate's hard skills, behavioral intelligence, and soft skills.

7. Send a job offer and onboard your new cytology supervisor

   Once you've selected the best cytology supervisor candidate for the job, it's time to write an offer letter. In addition to salary, this letter should include details about the benefits and perks you offer the candidate. Ensuring that your offer is competitive is essential, as qualified candidates may be considering other job opportunities. The candidate may wish to negotiate the terms of the offer, and you should be open to discussion. After you reach an agreement, the final step is formalizing the agreement with a contract.

   It's equally important to follow up with applicants who don't get the job with an email letting them know that the position has been filled.

   To prepare for the new cytology supervisor first day, you should share an onboarding schedule with them that covers their first period on the job. You should also quickly complete any necessary paperwork, such as employee action forms and onboarding documents like I-9, benefits enrollment, and federal and state tax forms. Finally, Human Resources must ensure a new employee file is created for internal record keeping.

8. Go through the hiring process checklist

   • Determine employee type (full-time, part-time, contractor, etc.)
   • Submit a job requisition form to the HR department
   • Define job responsibilities and requirements
   • Establish budget and timeline
   • Determine hiring decision makers for the role
   • Write job description
   • Post job on job boards, company website, etc.
   • Promote the job internally
   • Process applications through applicant tracking system
   • Review resumes and cover letters
   • Shortlist candidates for screening
   • Hold phone/virtual interview screening with first round of candidates
   • Conduct in-person interviews with top candidates from first round
   • Score candidates based on weighted criteria (e.g., experience, education, background, cultural fit, skill set, etc.)
   • Conduct background checks on top candidates
   • Check references of top candidates
   • Consult with HR and hiring decision makers on job offer specifics
   • Extend offer to top candidate(s)
   • Receive formal job offer acceptance and signed employment contract
   • Inform other candidates that the position has been filled
   • Set and communicate onboarding schedule to new hire(s)
   • Complete new hire paperwork (i9, benefits enrollment, tax forms, etc.)

   Sign up to download full list

   Sign up

How much does it cost to hire a cytology supervisor?