Mohs Technician / Histotechnician – Dermatology

CC DERMATOLOGY MSO LLC•Salem, OR

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Mohs Technician is a member of the Mohs surgery team at Clear Choice Dermatology and is responsible for histological specimen processing from tissue receipt through embedding, sectioning, staining, and preparation of slides for microscopic review by the Mohs Surgeon. The role also provides direct support during surgery, maintains laboratory equipment and compliance documentation, and follows laboratory quality and safety standards. The work requires precision, sound technical judgment, and efficiency during time-sensitive Mohs surgery days. The position is in the Dermatology / Clinical Lab department and is classified as full-time and exempt. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, varying with the surgical schedule. It reports to the Mohs Surgeon / Medical Director. Work is performed in a clinical laboratory setting. The role involves regular exposure to chemicals, fumes, heated surfaces from the embedding station, and microtome blades. During cryostat operation, arms and hands may be exposed to temperatures below 25°C. Personal protective equipment is required in the lab and provided by the practice.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory procedures and safe operation of laboratory equipment, including cryostats, microtomes, and staining instruments.
Ability to identify the epidermis with and without a microscope.
Working knowledge of laboratory information systems and documentation practices.
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in specimen handling, processing, and documentation.
Ability to perform basic arithmetic calculations.
Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to follow oral and written instructions precisely.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high-quality standards.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
Ability to build and maintain effective professional relationships with patients, staff, and physicians.
Commitment to continuous learning, quality improvement, and contributing to a high-functioning surgical team.
Ability to stand and work on one's feet for 70–90% of the workday.
Ability to work at a computer while standing or sitting for 30–80% of the workday.
Ability to bend, stoop, and stretch frequently during the shift.
Eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity to operate laboratory instruments, a keyboard, and office equipment precisely.
Normal range of hearing and eyesight required to record, prepare, and communicate laboratory reports and findings.
Ability to lift supply boxes up to 50 lbs and push or pull supply carts as needed.
Ability to work with required PPE in a clinical laboratory setting with exposure to chemicals, fumes, heated surfaces, microtome blades, and cold temperatures during cryostat operation.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree from an accredited college or university.
ASCP Histotechnologist (HTL) or Histotechnician (HT) certification.
One year of Mohs technician experience.
Prior laboratory, histology, and/or pathology experience.

Responsibilities

Receive, inspect, and process surgical tissue specimens according to established protocols and required timeframes.
Prepare specimens for processing, including weighing, cassette labeling, and block log documentation.
Embed frozen surgical specimens while ensuring proper tissue orientation and section quality.
Cut tissue sections using a cryostat and mount them onto slides for staining.
Perform routine staining, including H&E and other staining as directed, and operate and maintain slide staining equipment.
Apply coverslips and prepare completed slides for timely physician review.
Dispose of tissue and laboratory waste according to biohazardous waste protocols and OSHA standards.
Set up the cryostat, stainer, instruments, and supplies before each Mohs surgery day.
Assist the Mohs Surgeon during procedures as directed and anticipate surgical needs to minimize downtime between stages.
Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked laboratory throughout the surgical day.
Respond to questions from front office staff, medical assistants, providers, and outside clinics about specimen status and laboratory procedures.
Maintain complete and accurate specimen documentation throughout processing.
Print and verify grossing sheets and slide labels before use.
File surgical reports, photographs, and slides according to practice protocols and retention requirements.
Document equipment maintenance, reagent use, and temperature logs as required.
Clean and maintain laboratory equipment, instruments, and machines on schedule and document maintenance activities.
Troubleshoot equipment issues and promptly escalate unresolved problems to the Mohs Surgeon or Medical Director.
Monitor and replenish reagents, laboratory supplies, and PPE.
Label, store, and handle chemicals and hazardous materials in compliance with OSHA standards.
Maintain HIPAA compliance and patient confidentiality.
Follow OSHA standards and the blood-borne pathogen, hazardous chemical communication, and biohazardous waste tracking and disposal plans.
Ensure biohazard signage, eyewash stations, and laboratory areas meet physical plan compliance requirements.
Maintain current The Guard training and participate in OSHA compliance and laboratory safety in-service meetings.
Train other staff on Mohs-specific laboratory processes and procedures as directed.
Maintain regular and reliable attendance and perform additional duties as assigned by the Mohs Surgeon or Medical Director.