Histotechnician- Mohs & Surgical Pathology

North Idaho Dermatology is looking for an individual with a passion for lab sciences and a love of skincare to join our Mohs and Pathology lab team in Coeur d'Alene! Experienced Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT), Histotechnicians (HT), and Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) are encouraged to apply!  We are willing to train individuals who meet the minimum education requirements.  Positions hours may range from part-time to full-time depending on business needs. 

Position Summary 

We are seeking a versatile and detail-oriented Histotechnician to support both the Mohs surgery laboratory and the Surgical Pathology laboratory. This role is responsible for preparing high-quality histologic and frozen tissue sections, performing routine and specialized staining procedures including immunohistochemistry (IHC), and ensuring accurate, timely workflow to support patient diagnosis and treatment. The ideal candidate is adaptable, quality-focused, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with close collaboration among dermatologic surgeons, pathologists, and laboratory staff. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Mohs Laboratory Responsibilities 

• Prepare and process frozen tissue specimens for Mohs micrographic surgery. 
• Embed, section, stain, and mount frozen tissue sections with precision and efficiency. 
• Maintain orientation and mapping accuracy of Mohs specimens. 
• Perform quality control of frozen sections to ensure optimal diagnostic interpretation. 
• Communicate effectively with Mohs surgeons and clinical staff regarding specimen status and workflow priorities. 
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and compliance within the Mohs laboratory. 

Surgical Pathology Responsibilities 

• Receive, accession, grossly examine, process, embed, section, and stain tissue specimens. 
• Prepare paraffin-embedded tissue blocks and high-quality microtome sections. 
• Perform routine H&E staining and special stains according to laboratory protocols. 
• Ensure proper specimen identification and chain of custody throughout processing. 
• Assist pathologists with slide preparation and ancillary testing needs. 

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Responsibilities 

• Perform immunohistochemical staining procedures using automated and/or manual methods. 
• Select and prepare appropriate controls and reagents for IHC testing. 
• Troubleshoot staining quality and instrument issues as needed. 
• Maintain documentation for quality assurance, reagent tracking, and instrument maintenance. 
• Collaborate with pathologists to ensure timely and accurate test results. 

General Laboratory Responsibilities 

• Follow all CLIA, OSHA, HIPAA, and laboratory safety standards. 
• Perform instrument maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting. 
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and proficiency testing. 
• Maintain accurate records and documentation 

Qualifications 

• Required: Associate’s degree or higher in Laboratory Science, Chemical Science, or Biological Science; bachelor’s degree in chemistry or biology preferred 
• Candidates may also qualify under high-complexity testing personnel standards with completion of at least 60 semester credit hours, including 24 science credits comprised of: 

-6 semester hours in Chemistry 

-6 semester hours in Biology 

-12 additional semester hours in Chemistry, Biology, or Medical Laboratory Science (in any combination) 

• Willing to train - histology experience preferred 
• Experience in Mohs frozen sectioning is strongly preferred. 
• Knowledge of laboratory safety standards, quality control, and regulatory compliance. 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively. 

Schedule / Work Environment 

• Part-time to Full-time availability
• Day shift with early morning coverage for Mohs cases. 
• Work performed in a clinical laboratory environment with exposure to chemicals and biological specimens. 

 SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

No direct reports

 Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are the representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to stand for extended periods. 
• Manual dexterity required for microtomy and specimen handling. 
• Ability to lift and move laboratory supplies and equipment up to 50 pounds. 
• Visual acuity sufficient for microscopic and detailed laboratory work. 

Work Environment

• General lab setting. 
• Well-lit and well ventilated. 
• Constant contact with individuals from any backgrounds; minimum exposure to communicable diseases. 
•  Exposure to noise, chemical hazards, toxic substances, blood borne pathogens and sharp instruments consistent with a laboratory environment. 

North Idaho Dermatology is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in our services, programs, activities, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact HR at (208) 665-7546 ext.117.