Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) carries out the day-to-day operations in the laboratory. The 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 (but not limited to) chemistry, microbiology, immunology, hematology, and immunohematology. Testing procedures are performed on a variety of biological specimens and/or environmental samples using manual or automated methods. In addition to routine testing, the CLS conducts quality control and routine maintenance of instrumentation and troubleshooting. 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.

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist:

• Uses extensive knowledge of clinical laboratory science principles, practices, concepts, and theories to independently plan, perform, and evaluate a wide range of complex laboratory tests.
• Exercises professional judgment to troubleshoot unexpected test results, resolve technical issues, and adapt methods when necessary.
• Utilizes a thorough understanding of quality control (QC), quality assurance (QA), and performance improvement principles to manage laboratory reagents, supplies, and invent
• Ensures all processes meet regulatory and accreditation standards through careful documentation, QC review, and timely corrective action.
• Adheres to all policies for proper collection, handling, accessioning, and labeling of specimens, ensuring patient safety, accurate identification, and infection control measures.
• Evaluates specimen suitability for testing, requests new specimens if necessary, and preserves the integrity of samples throughout the testing process.
• Instructs Medical Center and Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) personnel in laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and sample handling techniques.

Work Schedule: 10:30 PM - 06:30 AM, Rotating Weekends

Recruitment/Relocation Incentives (Sign-on Bonus): Not authorized

Permanent Change of Station (Relocation Assistance): Not Authorized

EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact the EDRP Coordinator at View email address on click.appcast.io for questions/assistance. Learn more

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). This is at the discretion of the manager to request, and must be approved by the Medical Center Director before it can be offered.

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 #: GS-7:53456-F, GS-9: 53457-F, GS-11: 53458-F

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized