Mohs Technician / Histotechnician – Dermatology

Description

Department: Dermatology / Clinical Lab

Classification: Full-Time

Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (varies with surgical schedule)

Reports To: Mohs Surgeon / Medical Director

FLSA Status: Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY

The Mohs Technician is an indispensable member of the Mohs surgery team at Clear Choice Dermatology, playing a pivotal role in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of skin cancer. This position is responsible for the full cycle of histological specimen processing — from tissue receipt through embedding, sectioning, staining, and slide preparation for microscopic review by the Mohs Surgeon. The Mohs Technician also provides direct surgical support, maintains laboratory equipment and compliance documentation, and upholds the rigorous quality and safety standards that define our surgical program. Success in this role requires exceptional precision, sound technical judgment, and the ability to perform efficiently under the time-sensitive demands of an active Mohs surgery day. The Mohs Technician is trusted with work that directly affects patient outcomes — and that responsibility is taken seriously at Clear Choice Dermatology.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Histology & Specimen Processing

• Receive, inspect, and process all tissue specimens from the surgical suite in accordance with established protocols and required timeframes
• Prepare specimens for processing including weighing, cassette labeling, and block log documentation
• Embed frozen surgical specimens with precision, following established protocols to ensure tissue orientation and section quality
• Cut tissue sections using the cryostat and mount onto slides for staining
• Perform routine staining procedures (H&E and others as directed) and operate and maintain slide staining equipment
• Apply coverslips to stained slides and prepare completed slides for physician review in a timely manner
• Dispose of all tissue and laboratory waste in accordance with biohazardous waste protocols and OSHA standards

Surgical Support

• Prepare the lab for each Mohs surgery day by setting up the cryostat, stainer, and all required instruments and supplies prior to the first case
• Assist the Mohs Surgeon directly during surgical procedures as directed, ensuring a smooth and efficient surgical workflow
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked lab environment throughout the surgical day
• Serve as a knowledgeable resource for front office staff, medical assistants, providers, and outside clinics regarding specimen status and lab procedures
• Anticipate surgical needs and proactively prepare materials to minimize downtime between stages

Documentation & Records

• Maintain accurate and complete specimen documentation throughout the entire processing workflow without exception
• Print and verify grossing sheets and slide labels for accuracy before use
• File surgical reports, photographs, and slides in accordance with practice protocols and retention requirements
• Document equipment maintenance activities, reagent use, and temperature logs as required by compliance and quality standards

Equipment & Lab Maintenance

• Clean and maintain all laboratory equipment, instruments, and machines on a routine schedule; document maintenance activities per protocol
• Troubleshoot equipment issues promptly; escalate unresolved problems to the Mohs Surgeon or Medical Director without delay
• Monitor and replenish reagents, lab supplies, and PPE (gloves, masks, gowns, eye shields) to ensure the lab is always fully stocked
• Ensure proper labeling, storage, and handling of all chemicals and hazardous materials in full compliance with OSHA standards

Compliance & Safety

• Maintain strict HIPAA compliance and uphold patient confidentiality in all circumstances
• Adhere to OSHA standards including the blood-borne pathogen program, hazardous chemical communication plan, and biohazardous waste tracking and disposal plan
• Ensure biohazard signage, eyewash stations, and all lab areas meet physical plan compliance requirements at all times
• Maintain current The Guard training in accordance with applicable compliance requirements
• Participate in staff in-service meetings related to OSHA compliance and laboratory safety
• Train other staff on Mohs-specific lab processes and procedures as directed by the Mohs Surgeon or Medical Director
• Maintain regular, reliable attendance to ensure uninterrupted surgical operations
• Perform additional duties as required or assigned by the Mohs Surgeon or Medical Director

Requirements

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED required
• Associate's Degree from an accredited college or university preferred but not required
• ASCP Histotechnologist (HTL) or Histotechnician (HT) certification preferred but not required
• 1 year of Mohs technician experience preferred but not required
• Prior laboratory, histology, and/or pathology experience preferred but not required

Skills & Competencies

• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory procedures and the safe operation of lab equipment including cryostats, microtomes, and staining instruments
• Ability to identify the epidermis with and without the use of a microscope
• Working knowledge of laboratory information systems and documentation practices
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in all specimen handling, processing, and documentation tasks — errors in this role directly impact patient care
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic calculations to support lab functions
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to follow both oral and written instructions precisely
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining a high standard of quality
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to build and maintain professional, effective working relationships with patients, staff, and physicians
• Commitment to continuous learning, quality improvement, and contributing to a high-functioning surgical team

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

• Requires prolonged standing and working on your feet for 70–90% of the workday
• Requires work at a computer while standing or sitting for 30–80% of the workday
• Requires frequent bending, stooping, and stretching throughout the shift
• Requires eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity sufficient to operate lab instruments, a keyboard, and office equipment with precision
• Normal range of hearing and eyesight required to record, prepare, and communicate lab reports and findings
• Ability to lift supply boxes up to 50 lbs
• Ability to pull and push supply carts as needed

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in a clinical laboratory setting at Clear Choice Dermatology. This position involves regular exposure to chemicals, fumes, heated surfaces from the embedding station, and microtome blades. Arms and hands may be exposed to temperatures below 25°C during cryostat operation. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required at all times in the lab and is provided by the practice.

WORK STANDARDS

All Clear Choice Dermatology team members are expected to demonstrate the following core competencies:

• Practice Ideals — Uphold the professional standards and organizational values of Clear Choice Dermatology; treat every individual — patients, colleagues, and vendors — with respect and integrity
• Communication — Listen actively, seek clarification when needed, and communicate clearly and professionally with team members, patients, outside providers, and vendors
• Critical Thinking — Approach challenges with resourcefulness; identify opportunities to improve lab workflows; support practice decisions and contribute to quality improvement initiatives
• Planning & Organization — Prioritize and plan work efficiently; adapt to shifting surgical schedules and changing assignments; maintain a structured and organized lab environment at all times
• Quality & Accuracy — Demonstrate an unwavering commitment to precision and excellence; apply feedback constructively; complete all tasks thoroughly and on time
• Dependability — Demonstrate consistent punctuality, reliability, and intellectual honesty; follow through on all assignments; respond appropriately to direction from the Mohs Surgeon and Medical Director
• Teamwork — Balance individual responsibilities with team needs; welcome constructive feedback; actively contribute to a positive, collaborative surgical team environment
• Use of Technology — Demonstrate proficiency with all required lab and office technologies; adapt to new systems as introduced; maintain all equipment in good working order

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Competitive hourly wage based on experience
• Certification reimbursement (HT/HTL)
• Opportunities for advancement within dermatology surgical services