CENTRAL MISSOURI DERMATOLOGY ASSOCIATES LLP·Columbia, Missouri
The Mohs Technician is responsible for preparing, processing, and staining tissue specimens to assist surgeons in diagnosing malignancies. They must maintain laboratory equipment, ensure accurate specimen documentation, and adhere to safety and regulatory standards.
Columbia - Columbia, MO 65201The Mohs Technician is responsible for the preparation, processing, and staining of tissue specimens, which are critical steps that enable the MOHS surgeon to accurately diagnose and treat malignancies. This is a safety and/or security-sensitive position. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND PERFORMANCE AREAS Prepare tissue specimens by processing, embedding, sectioning, and staining for examination by the MOHS surgeon. Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments. Ensure accurate documentation and labeling of specimens and slides with accurate patient information. Prepare specimens for processing for proper cutting, inking, and mapping. Perform routine staining procedures, including but not limited to operating and maintaining slide staining. Prepare for MOHS surgery by setting up the stainer and supplies. Follow specimen protocols and procedures within the required timeframes for embedding frozen surgical specimens. Dispose of tissue following proper protocol. Maintain laboratory cleanliness and compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Collaborate closely with the MOHS surgeon and clinical staff to ensure timely processing and examination of specimens, including presenting slides promptly. Monitor and order laboratory supplies to ensure efficient operation. Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to tissue processing and staining. Ensure quality control and assurance in all specimen preparations. Perform other duties as assigned. QualificationsKNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Strong knowledge of laboratory safety and regulatory standards. Ability to visually prepare and examine slides. Basic understanding of MOHS micrographic surgery procedures. Ability to identify epidermis with and without the use of a microscope. Ability to maintain an effective working relationship with patients, team members, and partners. Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and demonstrate adaptability in a rapidly changing environment. High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and excellent time management skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills; strong interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment. Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards. ORGANIZATIONAL CORE COMPETENCIES Building Trust - Interacting with others in a way that gives them confidence in one’s intentions and those of the organization. Patient Focus - Ensuring that the patient perspective is a driving force behind business decisions and activities; crafting and implementing service practices that meet patients’ and own organization’s needs. JOB-SPECIFIC CORE COMPETENCIES Collaboration - Working effectively and cooperatively with others; establishing and maintaining good working relationships. Engagement Readiness - Demonstrating a willingness to commit to one’s work and to invest one’s time, talent, and best efforts in accomplishing organizational goals. Continuous Learning - Actively identifying new areas for learning; regularly creating and taking advantage of learning opportunities; using newly gained knowledge and skills on the job and learning through their application. Managing Work (includes Time Management) - Effectively managing one’s time and resources to ensure that work is completed efficiently. EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS Certification as a Histotechnician (HT) or Histotechnologist (HTL) by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Previous experience working in a MOHS surgery laboratory is preferred Proven commitment to patient care and safety. Associate’s Degree from an accredited college or university. Must possess a valid driver’s license and have a good driving record. PHYSICAL CONTEXT AND WORK ENVIRONMENT Physical Requirements Percentage of Work Time Spent on Activity 0-24% 25-49% 50-74% 75-100%
Seeing: Must be able to see clients and visitors, nursing tools, documents, and computer.
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Hearing: Must be able to hear well enough to communicate with staff and general public.
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Sitting: Must be able to sit for long periods of time.
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Standing/Walking: Must be able to move about the work area.
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Climbing/Stooping/Kneeling: Must be able to stoop or kneel to pick up items off the floor.
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Lifting/Pulling/Pushing: Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds, and reach overhead, with or without reasonable assistance.
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Grasping/Feeling: Must be able to type, handle documents, grip objects, tools, and equipment, and use equipment and electronic devices.
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Motor
Coordination: Must be able to accurately gauge lengths of time and distance and have the ability to maintain focus.
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Travel/Drive: Must be able to drive to other locations as needed. X WORKING CONDITIONS Normal working conditions in an office environment are absent extreme factors. Surgeon duties may require wearing personal protective equipment with potential exposure to blood and bodily fluids, sharp objects, harmful drugs or chemicals, disease, and infection. Occasional after-hours or weekends may be required. The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed, but are not to be seen as a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Also, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.
Candidates must hold an Associate's Degree and be certified as a Histotechnician (HT) or Histotechnologist (HTL) by the ASCP. Previous experience in a MOHS surgery laboratory and a valid driver's license are also required or preferred.
Market context
MOHS technician openings in Missouri are typically tied to dermatology and surgical practices that need support for same-day tissue processing and specimen handling. These roles can be competitive because employers often look for an associate’s degree, ASCP HT or HTL certification, prior Mohs surgery lab experience, and sometimes a valid driver’s license. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, then confirm your certification and lab experience match the posting before applying.