Mohs Surgery Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]
In the medical field, the demand for Mohs Surgery Technicians is rapidly increasing.
As advancements in dermatological procedures progress, the need for proficient individuals who can assist, execute, and ensure the safety of these complex surgeries grows exponentially.
But what’s actually involved in being a Mohs Surgery Technician?
Whether you are:
- An aspiring medical professional trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager seeking to outline the perfect candidate,
- Or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes work of Mohs surgery,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Mohs Surgery Technician job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Mohs Surgery Technician Duties and Responsibilities
Mohs Surgery Technicians assist in surgical procedures, specifically Mohs micrographic surgery, a precise surgical technique used to treat skin cancer.
They work under the supervision of a specialized surgeon, preparing and processing tissue samples for microscopic examination.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Assisting the surgeon before, during, and after the Mohs surgery procedure
- Preparing the patient for surgery by cleansing and draping the surgical site
- Processing and mapping tissue samples taken during surgery
- Operating and maintaining laboratory equipment such as microtomes, cryostats, and staining apparatus
- Embedding, cutting, and staining tissue sections for microscopic examination
- Performing quality control checks on slides and ensuring accurate patient identification
- Providing patients with post-operative care instructions
- Maintaining a sterile and safe surgical environment in accordance with infection control protocols
- Documenting and reporting any unusual patient or procedural events
- Maintaining sufficient inventory of all supplies and equipment for the procedure room
Mohs Surgery Technician Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a dedicated and skilled Mohs Surgery Technician to join our surgical team.
The successful candidate will assist in Mohs micrographic surgeries, a technique used to treat skin cancer, under the supervision of our dermatologist.
Mohs Surgery Technician responsibilities include preparing the surgical room, assisting in surgeries, preparing and staining tissue specimens, and maintaining the surgical inventory.
The ideal candidate has a solid understanding of the Mohs surgical procedure, excellent hand-eye coordination, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities
- Assist the dermatologist during Mohs surgeries
- Prepare and sterilize surgical equipment and instruments
- Prepare and stain tissue specimens for microscopic examination
- Maintain surgical inventory and order supplies as necessary
- Ensure the surgical room is clean and sterile
- Provide pre and post-operative care to patients
- Document and maintain patient records
- Adhere to safety standards and protocols
- Communicate effectively with patients, families, and medical staff
- Stay updated with advancements in Mohs surgery procedures and techniques
Qualifications
- Proven work experience as a Mohs Surgery Technician or similar role
- Knowledge of Mohs surgery procedures and techniques
- Ability to handle surgical instruments and equipment
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
- Excellent verbal communication skills
- Compassionate and caring towards patients
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a related field
- Certification as a Surgical Technologist is a plus
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Mohs Surgery Technician
- Work Environment: Clinical setting. This role involves direct patient contact and exposure to surgical procedures.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Dermatologist or Lead Mohs Surgeon.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Mohs Surgery Technician Do?
A Mohs Surgery Technician typically works in a dermatology clinic or hospital, assisting the dermatologist or surgeon in performing Mohs surgeries.
Mohs surgery is a precise surgical technique used to treat skin cancer.
The technician’s main role is to prepare and process tissue specimens obtained during the surgery for microscopic examination by the surgeon.
This involves embedding, freezing, and cutting the tissue, as well as staining and mounting the tissue on slides.
Their aim is to ensure that all cancerous cells are removed while causing minimal damage to the surrounding healthy tissue.
Mohs Surgery Technicians also maintain the surgical instruments and equipment, ensure the operating room is clean and sterile, and may assist the surgeon during the procedure.
In addition, they play a key role in patient care.
They help patients feel comfortable before, during, and after the surgery, explaining the process and answering any questions they might have.
Attention to detail, technical skills, and a solid understanding of pathology, histology, and anatomy are crucial for this role.
Mohs Surgery Technician Qualifications and Skills
A competent Mohs Surgery Technician should possess the skills and qualifications that meet the demands of the role, including:
- Technical knowledge of the Mohs micrographic surgery process, along with other dermatological procedures.
- Strong attention to detail to carefully handle and prepare tissue specimens for microscopic examination.
- Superb manual dexterity for precise handling of surgical instruments and tissue samples.
- Interpersonal and communication skills to effectively communicate with patients, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals.
- Ability to handle stressful situations calmly and efficiently, given the critical nature of the role.
- Problem-solving skills to identify and rectify issues that may arise during surgical processes.
- Knowledge of infection control procedures and safety protocols in the surgical setting.
- Physical stamina to stand for extended periods during surgeries.
- Willingness to continually update knowledge of the evolving field of dermatology and Mohs surgery.
Mohs Surgery Technician Experience Requirements
Mohs Surgery Technicians typically start their careers with a medical assistant certificate or an associate’s degree in surgical technology.
This initial education provides a solid foundation in medical terminology, patient care, and the basics of surgical assistance.
Work experience in a clinical or hospital environment is usually required, often through an internship or part-time role.
This gives the technician hands-on experience in various patient care scenarios and helps them develop essential skills, such as wound care, sterilization techniques, and surgical assistance.
Technicians usually need 1 to 2 years of experience in a related healthcare field before being considered for a Mohs Surgery Technician role.
This experience can be gained in roles such as a Dermatology Technician, Medical Assistant, or Surgical Technician.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have likely honed their skills and knowledge in the field.
They may be adept at handling more complex cases and could be responsible for training and mentoring less experienced staff.
Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field may be well-suited for a leadership role within the Mohs Surgery team.
They would be expected to have a deep understanding of the Mohs procedure, demonstrate excellent patient care skills, and possess the ability to manage a team effectively.
Advanced certification, such as the Mohs Histotechnician certification, may also be required for these senior roles.
Mohs Surgery Technician Education and Training Requirements
Becoming a Mohs Surgery Technician requires completion of a recognized program in histology, medical laboratory technology, or a related field.
This typically involves an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline, such as biology or chemistry.
Mohs Surgery Technicians will also require specialized training in histotechniques, which can be gained through a histotechnician certification program.
These programs combine both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in laboratory settings.
Most employers require Mohs Surgery Technicians to be certified by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or another recognized certifying body.
To obtain this certification, candidates must pass an exam after completing their educational requirements.
In addition to these educational and certification requirements, Mohs Surgery Technicians should have good manual dexterity, as they will be handling delicate tissue samples and using precision equipment.
Continuing education or additional advanced training in dermatopathology may be beneficial for career advancement in this field.
Mohs Surgery Technician Salary Expectations
A Mohs Surgery Technician earns an average salary of $52,322 (USD) per year.
The actual earnings may fluctuate based on their level of experience, the location of their workplace, and the type of medical facility they are employed with.
Mohs Surgery Technician Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Mohs Surgery Technician need?
Mohs Surgery Technicians need a variety of skills including excellent dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a high-pressure environment.
They should be familiar with surgical instruments and procedures, have strong communication skills, and be able to follow instructions accurately.
Technicians also need a good understanding of infection control and patient safety protocols.
Do Mohs Surgery Technicians need a degree?
A degree is not specifically required to become a Mohs Surgery Technician, but they do need to complete a surgical technician program, usually offered at community colleges or vocational schools.
These programs typically take 1-2 years to complete and result in a diploma, certificate, or associate degree.
After graduation, technicians are eligible to take a certification exam.
What should you look for in a Mohs Surgery Technician resume?
When reviewing a Mohs Surgery Technician resume, look for a completed surgical technician program and ideally, certification.
Experience in a surgical setting, specifically with Mohs surgery, is highly valuable.
Other important factors to consider include knowledge of sterilization techniques, basic patient care skills, and an understanding of surgical equipment and procedures.
What qualities make a good Mohs Surgery Technician?
A good Mohs Surgery Technician is detail-oriented, patient, and able to work well under pressure.
They need to be highly organized and able to follow strict safety protocols.
Good manual dexterity is also important, as they will be handling delicate surgical instruments.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills are also crucial, as they will be working closely with surgeons and other healthcare professionals.
Is it challenging to hire Mohs Surgery Technicians?
The demand for Mohs Surgery Technicians is growing as the procedure becomes more popular, which can make finding qualified candidates challenging.
Offering competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and a positive work environment can help attract top talent in this field.
Conclusion
And there we have it.
Today, we’ve demystified the intricate role of a Mohs Surgery Technician.
And guess what?
It’s not just about assisting in surgery.
It’s about aiding in the fight against skin cancer, one procedure at a time.
With our comprehensive Mohs Surgery Technician job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to take the next step.
But why stop there?
Go further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to resource for creating detailed listings or perfecting your resume to stand out.
Remember:
Every procedure is a step towards saving a life.
Let’s make a difference. Together.
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