Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Quick Facts

• Performs clinical laboratory testing across routine and specialized areas
• Ensures specimen suitability, quality control, instrument performance, and accurate result entry/verification
• Monday–Friday 7:30am–4:00pm with rotating weekends and holidays

Description

You will evaluate specimens for usability, prepare them for analysis, prioritize test requests, and perform testing while maintaining instruments and conducting required maintenance and performance checks. You will analyze instrument function checks, calibration data, and quality control data; investigate analytical problems; and review results for clerical or unlikely/unexpected values. You will generate laboratory results into the laboratory computer system and provide clear communication and customer-focused service to healthcare teams.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate specimen suitability and prepare specimens while maintaining physiologic state
• Assign test priorities and execute tests expeditiously for critical situations
• Perform steps of analysis for routine and specialized tests, including instrument maintenance and performance checks
• Identify and document instrument malfunctions and unacceptable test system performance
• Conduct quality control/assurance procedures and maintain required records
• Review completed work for clerical errors and unusual/unlikely results; verify as needed
• Investigate problems/incompatibilities and determine appropriate solutions with guidance
• Enter, edit, and verify laboratory results in the computer system
• Communicate effectively with the healthcare team, including guidance and direction
• Answer inquiries regarding test results and methodology
• Adhere to biosafety and biosecurity practices
• Organize work and prioritize to meet deadlines
• Train new employees and students

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship
• Proficient in written and spoken English
• Subject to background/security investigation
• Complete VA onboarding and pre-employment requirements (including acceptable ID for Form I-9)
• Seasonal influenza vaccination requirement
• Complete application “Required Documents”
• Complete a 1 or 2-year trial period for fitness and advancement of the public interest
• Education: bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution
• Certification: meet MLS/MT certification options via ASCP BOC/AMT (or categorical/specialist certification when applicable)
• Non-certified candidates must qualify via VA-approved routes and work under supervision until certified

Benefits

• Competitive salary with regular salary increases
• Paid Time Off: 37–50 days annual leave per year (annual leave, sick leave, and paid Federal holidays)
• Parental leave up to 12 weeks paid after 12 months
• Child care subsidy after 60 days for eligible full-time employees
• Retirement: federal pension and federal 401K (up to 5% VA contributions)
• Insurance: federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care options
• Federal comprehensive benefits; eligibility varies by position type