Start as a Mohs tech with no experience
You don't need lab experience or a degree to start in a Mohs lab. You need a high school diploma, reliability and careful hands. Mohs Pros trains the rest, and pays you while you learn.
Why it's possible to start with no experience
Mohs surgery removes skin cancer one thin layer at a time. Between layers, a technician turns the tissue into frozen slides so the surgeon can check the edges under a microscope. Under federal lab rules (CLIA), preparing those slides is specimen processing, which trained staff can do under the lab director's supervision.
You're a good fit if you
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Like precise, hands-on work and can stay focused
- Are reliable: surgeons and patients wait for your slides
- Have reliable transport (drive time and mileage are paid)
- Want a healthcare career without years of school before you earn
Your path
- Paid trainee: learn embedding, cutting, staining and lab upkeep.
- Mohs tech: work in client labs once the lab director signs off on your competency.
- College credits: add science courses (often online or part-time) with our support.
- HT(ASCP): earn the recognized histotechnician credential and take on more of the lab's work.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I work in a lab with only a high school diploma?
- Yes, for specimen preparation. Federal lab rules treat embedding, cutting and staining slides as processing rather than testing, so trained staff with a high school diploma can do it under supervision. Grossing and diagnosis need more education.
- Is this an internship?
- No. Mohs Pros trainees are hourly employees, paid for all training and work time.
- How long until I work on my own?
- It depends on how quickly you reach the competency standard the lab director signs off. You keep working with experienced techs nearby while you build speed.
- What skills help most?
- Steady hands, patience with precise, repetitive work, reliability, and staying calm while a surgeon waits for slides.
Ready to start?
Apply as an experienced tech, or start with paid training. No experience needed.