Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Summary

This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program. Candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements and submit an EDRP application within four months of appointment.

• Schedule and prioritize laboratory testing to meet provider demands and urgent testing requests.
• Evaluate specimen suitability and request new specimens as necessary.
• Prepare reagents and primary reference materials.
• Perform non-routine and specialized test procedures using manual and/or instrumental techniques according to established protocols.
• Calibrate, standardize, adjust, and maintain single and multi-channel laboratory analyzers.
• Perform quality control procedures and maintain records of quality control reports.
• Evaluate and recommend new tests for the laboratory testing menu.
• Collaborate with the Chief of Laboratory and pathologist to determine non-standard test requirements.
• Determine test result validity and necessary variations/dilutions.
• Instruct providers and nursing staff on specimen requirements for specific laboratory tests.
• Serve as a senior member of the laboratory testing team, assessing test results in relation to patient medical conditions.
• Practice laboratory safety to reduce contamination and infection.
• Maintain records and files of tests performed, including patient logbooks and test result editing.
• Properly identify patient specimens with two patient identifier requirements to prevent mistaken identity.
• Manage inventory and stocking of laboratory supplies and reagents.
• Operate sophisticated computer-controlled multi-channel analyzers.
• Troubleshoot laboratory analyzers and interact with vendor technical staff.
• Utilize computers for accession, testing, and result verification in the Laboratory Information System.
• Consult clinicians or review patient history in the electronic medical record and support observations.
• Use critical judgment in evaluating test discrepancies and taking appropriate action.
• Interact with Reference Laboratories for off-site testing and sample transport.
• Correlate abnormal lab data with pathologic states and determine need for additional tests.
• Maintain a clean work area and conduct training for new employees and students.

Monday – Friday 08:30 – 17:00

Competitive salary with regular increases, 37–50 days of annual paid time off, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months, traditional federal pension, 401(k) with up to 5% VA contribution, comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, term life, and long‑term care coverage.

• U.S. citizen.
• Background/security investigation and drug screening.
• Proficient in written and spoken English.
• Participation in influenza vaccination program.

To qualify, applicants must meet all basic requirements within 30 days of the closing date.

Citizenship – U.S. citizen or eligible non‑citizen under 38 U.S.C. § 7407(a).

Education – Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

Certification – Generalist MLS or MT certification by ASCP BOC or AMT, or categorical or specialist certification by ASCP or AMT. Non‑certified applicants may be hired under temporary appointment with progress toward certification.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist – GS‑07 to GS‑11.