Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Summary

This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program. You must meet specific individual eligibility requirements in accordance with VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment. Program Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) and eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after complete review of the EDRP application.

Duties

Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional 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. Duties are continued in the Education Section. 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 vhaedrpprogramsupport@va.gov 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

Requirements

You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Qualifications and evaluation

IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position. It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment. Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.

Education

Qualification Continued: Grade Determinations: Clinical Laboratory Scientist, GS-07. Experience. None beyond the basic requirements. Clinical Laboratory Scientist, GS-09. Experience or Education. Candidates at this level must meet one of the criteria below: Experience. 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade. Reference: GS-7 Assignment: Employees at this level serves in a CLS entry-level position. It is expected that they receive guidance from more experienced staff members and require daily direct supervision. OR Education. Master's degree or 2 academic years of progressively higher-level graduate education in medical technology or a directly related science. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: (a) Knowledge of policies and procedures of clinical laboratory testing. (b) Knowledge of laboratory quality control and quality assurance principles. (c) Knowledge of laboratory equipment and routine maintenance. (d) Ability to work as a team member and effectively complete assignments. (e) Ability to read and interpret written instructions. (f) Ability to accurately perform pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases of testing. Clinical Laboratory Scientist, GS-11. Experience or Education. Candidates at this level must meet one of the criteria below: Experience. 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level. OR Education. Must have 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education or a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in medical technology or a directly related science. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: (a) Knowledge of professional clinical laboratory science principles, practices, concepts, and theories that support sound, independent work. (b) Knowledge of laboratory quality control and quality assurance procedures and principles of performance improvement. (c) Skill in informatics, laboratory data flow, and laboratory processes. (d) Ability to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair instrumentation. (e) Ability to use independent technical judgment to analyze and interpret laboratory results. (f) Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex written instructions. (g) Ability to communicate, consult, and interact with other members of the health care team, external relations, customer service, and patient education Preferred Experience: Experience with current Laboratory Information Systems Experience working off shift in clinical laboratory Competency in Phlebotomy Competent in drawing blood and blood cultures Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-07 to GS-11. Physical Requirements: Physical aspects associated with the work required of this assignment are typical for the occupation and would generally not require a pre-placement examination. EDUCATION: IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education. Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/. NAACLS: NAACLS - National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science - Find a Program ABHES: Directory of Institutions | ABHES CAAHEP (formerly CAHEA): CAAHEP | Find An Accredited Program NOTE: If your school has changed names, or is no longer in existence, you must provide this information in your application. NOTE: If your school was accredited by a body recognized by the US Dept. of Education at the time of graduation but is no longer listed on the US Dept. of Education website, you must provide documentation of accreditation with your application packet. Duties Continued: Reads, interprets, and applies complex written instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and regulatory guidelines to maintain operational consistency. Assesses specimens for suitability, ensuring that physiological conditions are maintained. Prepares specimens for analysis by following advanced methodologies, confirming that pre-analytical variables do not compromise test results. Selects, performs, evaluates, and monitors testing procedures using both manual and automated techniques in accordance with established protocols. Identifies indicators of instrument or procedural malfunctions, implements corrections, and uses independent technical judgment to accurately interpret results. Conducts routine and specialized QC checks on equipment, reagents, and test systems. Maintains comprehensive QC records, documents any deviations, and participates in corrective actions to ensure result validity and reliability. Operates a variety of complex laboratory instruments and analyzers (e.g., cell counters, chemistry analyzers, urinalysis analyzers, microscopes). Calibrates, standardizes, adjusts, and maintains equipment, verifying correct operation through established QC procedures. Identifies common technical problems and makes appropriate repairs. Duties are continued in the Benefits section:

Benefits

Duties Continued: Acts as a consultant, effectively communicating test methodologies, limitations, and interpretations to healthcare providers, patients, and external stakeho Responds professionally to inquiries, ensuring that results are clearly understood and appropriately utilized. Maintains a clean, orderly, and safe work environment. Performs tasks requiring prolonged standing, bending, instrument manipulation, and phlebotomy as needed. Uses required PPE and follows all safety and infection control protocols, handling biological and chemical hazards responsibly. 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. Maintains proficiency/competency sufficient to perform the full range of laboratory testing on any/all laboratory shifts including (but not limited to) duty on weekends, holidays, nights, on-call rotation and/or other shifts. In rare occasion, may travel to other laboratories as needed to perform duties and/or to provide primary laboratory coverage to meet mission requirements (i.e., manning shortage and/or emergency situations). Any clinical laboratory and/or medical center task that is critical to the mission of the department and VHA as delegated by the Supervisory CLS, Laboratory Manager and/or Laboratory Director.

How to apply

All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 10/21/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13089238. To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire. Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package. NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.

Required documents

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes: Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV) The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc. Cover Letter DD-214/ Statement of Service Disability Letter (Schedule A) Disability Letter (VA) License Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV) MLS, MT, or Categorical Technologist Level Certification from ASCP or AMT MLT Certification (if not certified as a Technologist and using Education, Experience, and/or Tech level certification to qualify) PCS Orders Performance Appraisal Professional Certification Separation Notice (RIF) SF-15 SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action Transcript

Additional information

Receiving Service Credit for Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed. During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions. This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies. This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status. VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority. If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement. Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act. Duties Continued: Resolves difficult malfunctions in coordination with manufacturer's technical support services. Evaluates the validity of data in relation to accepted assay procedures and correlates quantitative findings with patient history and medications. Performs additional or confirmatory tests as needed, recognizing critical values, and immediately reporting them to the treating physician. Generates, edits, and verifies laboratory results in the LIS, using advanced informatics skills to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and proper data flow. Maintains awareness of data management principles, ensuring that patient results are released promptly and securely. Works off-hour shifts, weekends, holidays, and on-call rotations as needed. Assists in other laboratory areas to maintain service continuity during staffing shortages. Assists in orienting and training new employees, guiding them in laboratory procedures, QC practices, safety protocols, and instrument operation. Assists in developing, maintaining, and modifying laboratory-related computer applications. Collaborates with technical representatives to troubleshoot software issues and improve data management processes. Maintains adequate supplies and reagents for efficient laboratory operations. Monitors inventory usage and storage conditions, ensuring readiness and preventing workflow interruptions. Participates in process improvement initiatives, meets mandatory continuing education requirements, and applies data-driven decision-making strategies. Embraces team-driven change, providing input to enhance laboratory efficiency and service quality. Duties are continued in the Benefits Section.