Cytogenetic Technologists

SOC code 29-2011 · O*NET-SOC 29-2011.01 · Considerable preparation needed · Healthcare

Cytogenetic Technologists pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$62,930

a year

Hourly

$30.26

per hour

10th$38,910Median$62,93090th$100,990

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$67,350

$32.38 per hour

Middle 50%

$47,650 – $81,450

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$38,910 – $100,990

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

332,940

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

These pay and employment figures are for the broader BLS group “Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians”, not this job alone.

10th percentile: $38,910; $18.71/hr
25th percentile: $47,650; $22.91/hr
Median percentile: $62,930; $30.26/hr
75th percentile: $81,450; $39.16/hr
90th percentile: $100,990; $48.55/hr

What does a cytogenetic technologist do?

Analyze chromosomes or chromosome segments found in biological specimens, such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, solid tumors, and blood to aid in the study, diagnosis, classification, or treatment of inherited or acquired genetic diseases. Conduct analyses through classical cytogenetic, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) or array comparative genome hybridization (aCGH) techniques.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.
Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital disabilities, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.
Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.
Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.
Recognize and report abnormalities in the color, size, shape, composition, or pattern of cells.
Input details of specimen processing, analysis, and technical issues into logs or laboratory information systems (LIS).

How to become a cytogenetic technologist

Preparation level: zone 4 — Considerable preparation needed

Education: Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Experience: A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
Training: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

See all zone 4 occupations →

The federal survey did not capture education levels for this specific occupation, so the preparation-level card above is the best guide to the entry route.

Common questions

How much does a cytogenetic technologist earn?

The national median is $62,930 a year. The full range runs from $38,910 at the 10th percentile to $100,990 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a cytogenetic technologist without a degree?

Not usually — this occupation sits in preparation zone 4, where the typical entry route is most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not. The education breakdown above shows what people in the role actually reported.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Reading Comprehension4.0/5
Critical Thinking3.9/5
Active Listening3.8/5
Speaking3.8/5
Writing3.6/5
Science3.5/5
Active Learning3.3/5
Monitoring3.3/5

Knowledge areas

Biology4.0/5
Chemistry3.0/5
English Language2.8/5
Education and Training2.7/5
Computers and Electronics2.6/5

Transferable strengths: Judgment and Decision Making, Complex Problem Solving.