Summary

This vacancy will remain open until filled. The first cut-off date is 12/06/2023. Additional applications will be referred as needed.

The Advanced Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) works in the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service (P&LMS) at the Amarillo VA Health Care System (AVAHCS). The Advanced MLT provides consultative services to management at all levels of the organization as it applies to the Community Provider Order (CPO) program.

The public

U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Clarification from the agency

This announcement is open to U.S. Citizens. If you are a (Current & Permanent) Federal Employee, please apply to our Internal Announcement: CAZM-12221786-24-JRH.

Duties

When a veteran patient receives a consult for services from community providers, that veteran is also provided with documentation for payment of services. If that documentation authorizes laboratory services to be performed at a VA lab, community providers will write manual lab orders to be entered by the CPO Technician. The Advanced MLT will act as the CPO Technician for the AVAHCS by entering community provider laboratory orders.

The Advanced MLT will also be performing a variety of duties in various departments of the clinical laboratory including specimen collection and processing. Testing performed by the incumbent will vary from waived to high-complexity clinical laboratory testing in areas such as clinical chemistry, hematology, coagulation, urinalysis, microbiology, immunohematology (blood banking), and ancillary testing to provide accurate results to physicians that aid in the diagnosis and treatment of their patients.

Duties and tasks include, but are not limited, to the following:
- Perform administrative work dealing with the CPO process analyzing, developing, evaluating, or promoting performance improvements in laboratory processes to maximize efficiency and improve quality in P&LMS business operations by working closely with the Supervisory Medical Technician and Medical Technicians in the laboratory outpatient area.
- Provide training and guidance to the Medical Technicians and other lab and facility staff members in the CPO process as needed. Incorporate principles of educational methodology in the instruction and training of new employees in the laboratory's in-service/continuing education program.
- Support P&LMS leaders in the planning and implementation of department programs, selecting the approach, resolving technical problems, and advising on the coordination in carrying out the procedures necessary to complete the work assignments in accordance with established laboratory practices.
- Assist management officials with laboratory continuous readiness for regulatory agency inspections and accreditations by preparing for inspections.
- Support P&LMS leaders to ensure proper and timely proficiency testing (PT) performance and reporting and works on solutions for improvement.
- Support P&LMS leaders to ensure that all employees performing collections and testing understand and comply with all safety regulations according to the P&LMS and facility safety policies.
- Assist P&LMS leaders with the monitoring of quality components, continuous performance improvement initiatives, and obtaining customer feedback.
- Perform a broad range of laboratory procedures including all testing and tasks of the medical laboratory technician occupation.
- Performs advanced and complex laboratory procedures; recognizes deviation from expected results; analyzes and corrects problems using scientific principles information.
- Evaluate and solve problems related to collection and processing of biological specimens for analysis, considering physiologic processes and requirements.
- Identify discrepancies, solve problems, and present solutions.
- Answer inquiries regarding test results, methodology, test specificity, test sensitivity and specific factors, which influence test results. Interpret results and suggests follow-up test selection or procedures.
- Maintain and document the optimal functioning of the automated analytical instrumentation used in all departments of the laboratory. Use, calibrate, identify malfunctions, repair, and perform preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment.
- Diagnose deviations in test performance due to instrument malfunction.
- Perform and document quality control and quality assurance activities and corrective actions related to test performance using statistical principles and theories of performance improvement.
- Adhere to practices and regulations governing biosafety and biosecurity in the workplace.
- Assist with validation/method verification for new systems and techniques and procedures in the laboratory in terms of equipment, method comparison, and establishment of reference intervals using statistical methods and theoretical knowledge.
- Perform all duties independently, with minimal supervision.
- Communicates effectively and courteously while working as a healthcare team member.
- Organizes work and sets priorities to meet deadlines.

Duties are continued in the Education section of this announcement.

Work Schedule: Monday- Friday, 8 AM - 4:30 PM
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 000000
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

Conditions of Employment

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.
You may be required to serve a probationary period.
Subject to background/security investigation.
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.

Qualifications

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.

English Language Proficiency: Must be proficient in written and spoken English

Education. Candidates must meet the applicable educational requirements for certification.

Certification. Candidates must currently possess one of the appropriate certifications as an MLT granted by the following organizations.

(a) American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP)

i ASCP, Board of Certification.
OR
ii ASCP, Board of Registry. OR

(b) American Medical Technologists.

OR

(c) American Association of Bioanalysts.

GRADE DETERMINATIONS:

Advanced Medical Laboratory Technician, GS-07.

Experience. In addition to the basic requirements, candidates must possess one year of experience equivalent to the GS-06 grade level and demonstrate the KSAs below.

GS-6 Assignment. At the full performance level, MLTs use independent judgment to perform the full range of duties in the laboratory, from sample collection to evaluating and communicating test results. MLTs perform day-to-day operations in the laboratory with minimal technical supervision while ensuring testing accuracy and quality of proper patient care. This includes providing pre-analytic instructions to patients, VA staff and other external entities related to collection and processing of laboratory specimens. MLTs use processing techniques such as centrifugation, aliquoting, storage and packaging (considering stability factors), and they accurately label and sort patient specimens. MLTs operate and maintain all instrumentation in assigned areas to deliver precise, timely and accurate laboratory results when analyzing body fluids such as blood, urine and tissue samples. MLTs at this level analyze laboratory findings and issue necessary reports. The results and findings of laboratory tests and procedures are discussed with supervisors, pathologists and other medical professionals as needed.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the KSAs:

Knowledge of concepts, principles, methodology of medical laboratory technology, regulatory and accrediting agency requirements and medicolegal requirements sufficient to perform complex diagnostic tests.
Skill in applying new scientific/technical developments and theories to laboratory testing.
Ability to work independently on a broad range of complex laboratory processes.
Ability to troubleshoot and repair specific/advanced complex laboratory equipment.
Knowledge of laboratory information technology (IT) systems including troubleshooting systems issues, interface requirements between new instruments and existing IT infrastructure and laboratory IT test development.
Ability to convey knowledge of safety regulations and guidelines such as College of American Pathologists (CAP), Joint Commission and Occupational Safety and Health Administration along with continuing education and employee orientation to ensure staff compliance with safety requirements.
Ability to plan and administer an ongoing continuing education program for the laboratory to meet accreditation standards.
Ability to assist with quality management activities in the laboratory, including monitoring and evaluating quality in accordance with CLIA and CAP, conducting quality improvement activities and communicating quality management results.

Preferred Experience:

Three years of clinical laboratory work experience as a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) in a hospital setting with ASCP, AMT, or AAB certification.
Three years of medical terminology and laboratory testing knowledge.
Three years of experience using computer software applications for data entry and other clerical and administrative duties.
One year of experience with quality and inventory management experience for a clinical laboratory department(s).
One year of experience with inspections from accrediting/regulatory agencies such as TJC, CAP, FDA, et cetera.

References: VA Handbook 5005 Part II Appendix G69, Medical Technician Qualification Standard, dated October 10, 2023.

This position is above the Full-Performance Level (GS-6 for this occupation). The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-7.

Physical Requirements:
Use of hands, eyes, standing, and light lifting/carrying may be required to perform some of the functions of this position, must be able to distinguish colors for testing interpretations and have fine motor skills with hands and finger, etc.

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: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.

NOTE: The required certification meets education requirements for this assignment.

Duties continued:

Community Provider Order Entry and Reporting:

The Advanced MLT will receive laboratory orders directly from Veteran patients and providers outside the VA system. The Advanced MLT then evaluates the community provider laboratory orders and places orders within the VA laboratory information system to facilitate the patient specimen collection at VA facilities. The Advanced MLT reviews test results of those orders and documents that the results are provided to the ordering provider/designee, to include critical values. The incumbent coordinates this care with other VA systems and services to ensure efficient quality laboratory services.

Specimen Collection and Processing:

The Advanced MLT maintains skills and is proficient in phlebotomy and follows CLSI guidelines for blood draws. The Advanced MLT uses two unique patient identifiers and active communication with identifying patients for blood draws and all other specimen collection processes; draws tubes in the correct order in accordance with laboratory policies and procedures; organizes the STAT and timed draws and reviews the collection list for uncollected data for outpatient blood draw and assists the phlebotomists to ensure there is coverage where needed or where tasks need to be completed; acts as information specialist for the section and assists practitioners in locating results, adding tests to existing specimens, explaining collection procedures, handling requirements and any special requirements for esoteric testing; processes specimens using the equipment, instruments and techniques required to prepare them for specific analysis, controls physical conditions and responds to time factors to ensure that physiologic integrity of the specimen is maintained; identifies unusual results or discrepancies/conditions that cause erroneous results (e.g. instrument malfunctions, improper test conditions, specimen appropriateness and viability); investigates and documents processing, labeling, collection and other specimen errors using problem report forms; enters reference lab results in the lab computer package, evaluates the validity of the result in relation to the test system, assay procedure, age, and gender of the patient.

Chemistry:

The Advanced MLT performs a broad spectrum of complex STAT and routine in clinical chemistry, toxicology, drug monitoring, and other procedures utilizing a wide range of technologies including immunoassay. It is key that the MLT can utilize computer systems associated with specimen processing instruments. Other duties include entering and verifying esoteric lab test results from commercial reference testing laboratories.

Hematology and Coagulation:

The Advanced MLT performs procedures associated with the enumeration and identification of human blood constituents and the study of the coagulation system. The Advanced MLT performs blood analyses using complex Hematology and Coagulation analyzers and manual counts. Knowledge of the physiological changes that affect sample stability and test accuracy is particularly important in this area due to the short stability of the samples utilized for analysis. Incumbent prepares stained slide preparations for the performance of microscopic work. The Advanced MLT must exercise critical judgement in the identification of human blood cells, particularly in white cell differential and the morphology of red cells. In Coagulation, tests performed include those used for monitoring anticoagulation therapy.

Urinalysis:

The Advanced MLT performs procedures associated with enumeration and identification of urine elements. The incumbent performs urine analysis using complex analyzers. Knowledge of the physiological changes that affect sample stability and test accuracy are particularly important in this area due to the short stability of the samples utilized for analysis. The incumbent must exercise critical judgement in the identification of human urine components.

Microbiology and PCR Testing:

The Advanced MLT performs procedures associated with identification of bacteria using a broad range of testing methodologies (molecular, panel ID, etc.). Incumbent prepares stained slide preparations for the performance of microscopic work. The incumbent must exercise critical judgement in the identification of bacterial and viral components.

Ancillary Testing/Point of Care Testing:

The Advanced MLT performs analysis using ancillary testing system

Additional information

Receiving Service Credit or 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.
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.

Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.

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.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

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.

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:

MLT Certification from ASCP BOC, ASCP BOR, AMT, or AAB
Resume

The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to 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
Diploma/ GED
Disability Letter (Schedule A)
Disability Letter (VA)
License
OF-306
MLT Certification from ASCP BOC, ASCP BOR, AMT, or AAB
Other (2)
Other (3)
Other (4)
Other (5)
PCS Orders
Performance Appraisal
Professional Certification
Proof of Enrollment
Proof of Marriage Status
Resume
Separation Notice (RIF)
SF-15
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript

Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

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 11/27/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12221787.

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.

To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.

Agency contact information

VISN 17 SSU USAS Group

Email

VISN17SSUUSAS@va.gov

Address

Thomas E Creek VA Medical Center
6010 Amarillo Boulevard, West
Amarillo, TX 79106
US

Learn more about this agency

Next steps

Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.

You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the U SAJobs Help Center.

NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.

Advanced Medical Laboratory Technician Job in Amarillo, TX