Preferred Experience:1 year of Microbiology bench experience preferred. The Clinical Laboratory Scientist at this level independently carries out day-to-day operations in the laboratory. The CLS develops, performs, evaluates, interprets, correlates, & validates the accuracy of laboratory procedures & results in line with current laboratory regulatory requirements. Testing procedures are performed on variety of biological specimens and/or environmental samples using manual or automated methods.
Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Education: A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university in medical laboratory science, medical technology, clinical laboratory science or in a related science (e.g., laboratory sciences such as chemistry, biochemistry, biology, microbiology, immunology, etc.) Certification. (1) Candidates must meet one of the certification options below. (a) Generalist certification as an MLS given by ASCP BOC or AMT. (b) Generalist certification as an MT given by ASCP BOR or AMT. (c) Categorical certification or Specialist certification by ASCP or AMT. NOTE: Categorical and specialist certifications are not acceptable for CLS Generalist positions or lab sections unrelated to the categorical or specialist certification held. Categorical or specialist certifications are acceptable for higher-graded positions within the relevant lab section or one of the non-section specific assignments (including, Ancillary Testing Coordinator, Education Coordinator, Laboratory Information Manager, Quality Manager, Laboratory Manager, Regional Technical Specialist, National Quality and Compliance Agent, Regional Program Manager, Regional Director, English Language Proficiency. CLSs must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with VA Handbook 5005. Clinical Laboratory Scientist - GS-11 (1) Experience or Education Candidates at this level must meet one of the criteria below: (a) Experience. 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level. OR (b) 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. (2) 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 Assignment. In addition, 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. Preferred Experience: One year Microbiology bench experience preferred Former VA Handbook Reference: Part II, Appendix G24. For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The Full Performance Level for this vacancy is GS-11. Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
The work performed may be in a variety of laboratory specialties such as chemistry, microbiology, immunology, hematology, and immunohematology. In addition to routine testing, the CLS conducts quality control and routine maintenance of instrumentation and troubleshooting. The duties and responsibilities of the CLS include but are not limited to the following: Performs a broad range of laboratory procedures. In addition, performs advanced and complex laboratory procedures; recognizes deviation from expected results; analyzes and corrects problems using scientific principles. Recognizes and communicates pre-defined critical results affecting patient care. Evaluates and solves problems related to collection and processing of biological specimens for analysis taking into account physiologic processes and requirements. 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. Performs and documents quality control and quality assurance activities and corrective actions related to test performance using statistical principles and theories of performance improvement. Adheres to practices and regulations governing biosafety and biosecurity in the the workplace. Identifies discrepancies, solve problems, and suggests solutions. 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 an implements new techniques and procedures in the laboratory in terms of equipment, method comparison, and establishment of reference intervals. Assists with instruction and training of new employees and students and in the laboratory's in-service/continuing education program. May be responsible for specific targeted laboratory projects including safety officer, analyzer specialist, primary operator on new test systems, quality control specialist, supply control, and 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. 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. Work Schedule: Variable day-shift positions; holidays and weekend rotation Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 593-07413F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized