Clinical Laboratory Scientist - Microbiology

Job Title

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Duties

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist performs essential laboratory testing that supports diagnosis and treatment for Veterans. Duties progress from routine and moderately complex testing at GS-07 to independent, complex testing and troubleshooting at GS-09. At GS-11, the scientist performs high-complexity testing, evaluates new methods, ensures regulatory compliance, and serves as a technical expert within specialized areas such as microbiology or molecular diagnostics. Across all levels, the role ensures accurate results, safe laboratory practices, and efficient workflow within the Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service.

GS-07 Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Perform a variety of routine and moderately complex clinical laboratory tests under general supervision.

Prepare specimens, reagents, controls, and calibrators according to laboratory procedures.

Operate and maintain laboratory instruments, performing basic troubleshooting as needed.

Verify test accuracy by running quality control samples and documenting results.

Enter and validate test data in the laboratory information system (LIS).

Follow safety, infection control, and regulatory guidelines within the laboratory environment.

Communicate test variances or abnormal findings to senior staff.

Support laboratory workflow through specimen handling, processing, and distribution.

GS-09 Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Perform complex clinical laboratory testing independently across multiple disciplines (e.g., chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology).

Evaluate test results for accuracy, interpret findings, and report critical values promptly.

Calibrate, validate, and troubleshoot advanced laboratory analyzers and instruments.

Review and monitor quality control data, identifying trends and initiating corrective actions.

Assist in developing, updating, and implementing laboratory procedures and performance standards.

Participate in proficiency testing, competency assessments, and accreditation compliance activities.

Train and guide junior staff, students, or new employees in laboratory methods.

Ensure regulatory compliance with VA, CAP, CLIA, and other governing bodies.

GS-11 Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Microbiology)

Perform advanced microbiology testing, including culture setup, organism identification, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and molecular diagnostic procedures.

Interpret complex microbiological results, verify accuracy, and report critical findings promptly to clinical providers.

Troubleshoot testing issues, analyze quality control trends, and initiate corrective actions when needed.

Operate, calibrate, and maintain specialized microbiology instruments, ensuring compliance with CLIA, CAP, and VA regulations.

Perform advanced molecular assays (e.g., PCR-based testing) following established protocols.

Evaluate new testing methods, assist with validation studies, and contribute to updates of standard operating procedures.

Serve as a technical resource for staff, providing guidance, training, and competency assessments for microbiology procedures.

Maintain accurate documentation, participate in proficiency testing, and ensure readiness for inspections and accreditation reviews.

Follow biosafety, infection control, and biohazard handling procedures to maintain a safe laboratory environment.

Work Schedule : Monday - Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm, 8am-4:30pm w rotating weekends

Telework : Not Available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement # : 41800F,40289F, & 40291F

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