Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Job Title

CLS Laboratory Specialist

Job Description

A CLS develops, performs, evaluates, interprets, correlates, and validates the accuracy of laboratory procedures and results in line with current laboratory regulatory requirements. The work performed may be in a variety of laboratory specialties such as chemistry, microbiology, immunology, hematology, and immunohematology. Major duties include, but are not limited to the following:

• Evaluates the suitability of the specimen for analysis, requesting new specimen if determined to be unusable. Prepares specimens for analysis, ensuring that the physiologic state of the specimen properties is maintained.
• Assigns priority to test requests and executes them expeditiously for use in critical care situations.
• Performs a broad range of standard, routine and specialized laboratory procedures using manual and/or automated techniques. Recognizes and reacts to indicators of malfunction; analyzes and corrects problems using scientific principles.
• Identifies and documents the optimal functioning of laboratory equipment.
• Diagnoses deviations in test performance by analyzing and interpreting instrument function checks, calibration data and quality control data.
• Performs and documents quality control and assurance activities and corrective actions on equipment, reagents, and products; adheres to established quality control guidelines.
• Evaluates the validity of data in relation to the test system and accepted assay procedures. Correlates quantitative data with patient data to verify results.
• Performs additional tests to clarify or confirm abnormal patient results. Reviews and recognizes abnormal results and critical results that require immediate attention.
• Responsible for the generation of laboratory results from the work area into the laboratory computer system and for the editing and verification of the results recorded into the computer system.
• Identifies discrepancies, solves problems, and presents solutions.
• Answers inquiries regarding test results, methodology, test specificity, test sensitivity, and specific factors, which influence test results. Interprets results and suggests follow-up test selection or procedures.
• Evaluates and implements new techniques and procedures in the laboratory. Interprets findings and makes recommendations.
• Incorporates principles of educational methodology in the instruction and training of new employees and students and in the laboratory's in-service/continuing education program.
• Communicates effectively and courteously while working as a healthcare team member. Provides excellent service as defined by the customer (healthcare providers, patients, and others). Gives direction and guidance using underlying principles of laboratory testing.
• Adheres to practices and regulations governing biosafety and biosecurity in the workplace.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday; 8am-4:30pm

Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases When setting pay, a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of higher or unique qualifications or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade).

Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year) Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior [work experience] or military service experience.

Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child.

Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66.

Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA

Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement)

Telework: Not Available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 000000

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized