Mohs Technician / Histotechnician – Dermatology

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