Lab Assistant

Description

Golden State Dermatology is a physician-led and owned dermatology group rapidly expanding across California, with over 45 locations. We are a leading medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology group specializing in skin, hair, and nail conditions, Mohs micrographic surgery for the treatment of skin cancer, surgical and non-surgical cosmetic skincare, anti-aging, body contouring, and plastic surgery.

As a Mohs Histotechnician / Medical Assistant, you will play an important role in supporting both the laboratory and clinical aspects of Mohs micrographic surgery. This hybrid position works closely with our Mohs surgeons and clinical team to prepare and process tissue specimens, maintain accurate laboratory documentation and quality standards, and provide hands-on Medical Assistant support throughout the patient’s visit.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, comfortable working in a fast-paced surgical environment, and able to transition seamlessly between histology laboratory responsibilities and direct patient care.

Key Responsibilities

Mohs Histology & Laboratory Responsibilities

Assemble supplies, instruments, and materials needed for Mohs surgical procedures.
Assist with marking tissue specimens with colored dyes to ensure accurate orientation of excised tissue.
Assist with correlating tissue mapping and coded frozen sections, allowing the Mohs Micrographic Surgeon to accurately locate residual tumor.
Cut frozen sections and control tissue with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency.
Stain frozen sections and mount tissue onto slides for microscopic evaluation by the surgeon.
Perform and monitor quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) procedures to maintain high-quality laboratory protocols and processes.
Maintain required daily laboratory logs, staining documentation, and other records to ensure consistency and accuracy.
Maintain, stock, and organize the Mohs laboratory and supply areas.
Monitor inventory levels and notify the appropriate supervisor when supplies are running low.
Maintain daily equipment documentation, troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, and perform scheduled preventative maintenance as appropriate.
Take corrective action and escalate equipment or quality concerns when necessary.
Properly store, label, document, and dispose of chemicals, reagents, tissue, and other laboratory materials in accordance with applicable laboratory, state, and federal requirements.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
Assist with obtaining prior biopsy results and pathology slides before scheduled Mohs procedures.
Maintain an organized system for tracking requested, received, returned, or mailed pathology slides.
Cross-train and assist within the Dermatopathology Laboratory as directed by laboratory management.
Perform additional laboratory or department-specific responsibilities as assigned.

Medical Assistant & Surgical Support Responsibilities

Prepare exam and procedure rooms prior to patient appointments, ensuring necessary instruments, supplies, and equipment are available.
Room patients and obtain/document relevant medical history, medications, allergies, and other required clinical information.
Obtain and document vital signs as appropriate.
Prepare patients for Mohs surgery and other dermatologic procedures.
Explain procedural workflows and provide appropriate pre- and post-procedure instructions within the Medical Assistant's scope.
Assist the Mohs Micrographic Surgeon with tissue removal, wound closure, and other surgical procedures.
Pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon while maintaining proper sterile technique.
Set up and maintain sterile fields during surgical procedures.
Assist with local procedure preparation and surgical supplies as directed by the provider and within applicable scope of practice.
Apply dressings and assist with wound care instructions following procedures.
Clean, disinfect, and prepare examination and procedure rooms between patients.
Clean, sterilize, and properly store surgical instruments according to established infection-control procedures.
Document patient information and clinical activities accurately in the electronic medical record.
Assist with prescription requests, pharmacy communication, patient messages, and provider-directed follow-up as appropriate.
Assist with patient scheduling and coordination related to Mohs procedures.
Provide professional and compassionate patient care throughout the surgical visit.
Respond appropriately to patient questions and escalate clinical concerns to the provider when necessary.
Support efficient patient flow by communicating closely with providers, front-office staff, and other members of the clinical team.

What We're Looking For

Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, particularly when handling tissue specimens and patient information.
Ability to work efficiently while maintaining high standards of quality and patient safety.
Strong understanding of sterile technique, infection prevention, and clinical safety practices.
Ability to interpret technical information and troubleshoot problems effectively.
Ability to follow established protocols and recognize when assistance or escalation is necessary.
Ability to multitask and prioritize responsibilities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven surgical and laboratory environment.
Strong organizational and documentation skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively with physicians, clinical staff, laboratory personnel, and administrative teams.
Commitment to providing excellent patient care and customer service.
Familiarity with laboratory equipment, including cryostats/microtomes and staining equipment, is preferred.