Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Clinical Laboratory Scientists (CLS) GS-11 is considered the full performance level for nonsupervisory positions. CLS at this level carries out the day-to-day operations in the laboratory. Performs routine and STAT testing, quality control, routine maintenance of instrumentation and troubleshooting. The CLS develops, performs, evaluates, interprets, correlates, and validates the accuracy of laboratory procedures and results ensuring all laboratory regulatory requirements are met. Testing procedures are performed on a variety of biological specimens and/or environmental samples using manual or automated techniques, following practices and regulations governing biosafety and biosecurity in the workplace. These require a broad exercise of independent judgement and responsibility, including organizing and setting priorities with minimal technical supervision. The work performed is in a variety of laboratory disciplines such as bacteriology, chemistry (including endocrinology and toxicology), molecular biology, coagulation, hematology, flow cytometry, immunology, immunohematology (blood banking), mycology, parasitology, serology, urinalysis, and virology. Such positions include requirements to monitor quality control systems and measures; collaborate in the diagnosis and treatment of patients; and provide education for laboratory and other healthcare professionals, and others in the medical center setting including the public in a professional, courteous, and effective manner.

The CLS may work with other generalists on a regular basis through the above-mentioned areas. He/she also works off-hour shifts, weekends and holidays as priorities demonstrate a need. The CLS correlates abnormal lab data with pathological states, determines the validity of test results, and the need for additional tests. Specific targeted laboratory responsibilities or projects may include laboratory safety officer, analyzer specialist, primary operator on new test systems, quality control specialist, supply control, and/or coordinator for the laboratory competency assessment or proficiency/survey program. This assignment may include limited duties in areas such as lab information management and ancillary testing. These tasks require a broad exercise of independent judgment and responsibility, including organizing and setting priorities with minimal technical supervision. The CLS assesses a situation, considers the options, and formulates an appropriate course of action. This assignment includes monitoring quality control systems and measures, collaborating in the diagnosis and treatment of patients, and providing education for laboratory health care professionals and the public in a professional, courteous, and effective manner.

• Knowledge of professional clinical laboratory science principles, practices, concepts, and theories that support sound, independent work.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality control and quality assurance procedures and principles of performance improvement.
• Skill in informatics, laboratory data flow, and laboratory processes.
• Ability to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair instrumentation.
• Ability to use independent technical judgment to analyze and interpret laboratory results.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex written instructions.
• Ability to communicate, consult, and interact with other members of the health care team, external relations, customer service, and patient education.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Work Schedule: 3pm to 11:30pm EVENING or 10pm to 6:30am NIGHT, rotational shifts including weekends and holidays.

Functional Statement #: 55468F

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized