Clinical Lab Scientist

Job Title

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Duties

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 bacteriology, molecular biology, immunohematology, chemistry, hematology, coagulation, urinalysis, serology. 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.

Major duties include, but are not limited to:

• Performs a broad range of laboratory procedures including all testing and tasks of the medical laboratory technologist occupation.
• Evaluates and solves problems related to collection and processing of biological specimens for analysis taking into account physiologic processes and requirements.
• Receive biological specimens and scan them into Specimen Tracking Log.
• Record daily temperature of equipment and notify supervisor, team leader or designee when the temperature is not in range.
• Investigate unacceptable Proficiency Testing results and document finding and corrective actions.
• Maintains and documents the optimal functioning of laboratory equipment. Uses, calibrates, identifies malfunctions, repairs, and performs preventive maintenance of laboratory equipment. Diagnoses deviations in test performance due to instrument malfunction. Notifies Supervisor or team on repair progress.
• Alert the team leader, supervisor, or designee verbally and in writing when deviations in test performance are observed.
• Performs and documents maintenance, quality control activities and corrective actions related to test performance using Levy-Jennings statistical principles and theories of performance improvement.
• Modifies or adapts new methods or techniques to improve or expand services.
• Adheres to practices and regulations governing biosafety and biosecurity in the workplace. Perform weekly checks for eye wash and safety showers. Participate in the monthly safety inspection of the department.
• Maintains professional currency through formal education and professional training. Maintains testing proficiency as defined on sectional competency checklist. Complete annual facility educational requirements.
• Identifies discrepancies, solves problems, and 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 in terms of equipment, method comparison, and establishment of reference intervals using statistical methods and theoretical knowledge. Interprets findings and makes recommendations.
• Performs validation/method verification studies for new system.
• 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.
• Organizes work and sets priorities to meet deadlines. This section lists the major duties and responsibilities of the position. Some areas to cover may involve the nature and variety of the tasks, methods, functions, projects, or programs carried out.
• Monitor supplies levels. Perform inventory and order supplies as needed in assigned area. Unpack and allocate incoming shipments of supplies.
• Provide ancillary testing support as needed.
• Other duties assigned.

Work Schedule: Assigned upon selection. Tours may be 10:00pm - 6:30am, 2:00pm- 10:30pm, with rotating weekends and holidays.

Recruitment Incentive (Sign-on Bonus): Not Authorized

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

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.

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

Telework: Not Available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 000000

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized