Clarification from the agency

NOTE: The 2-page Resume requirement does not apply to this position. For more information, refer to Required Documents below. This job is open to current permanent Veteran Health Administration (VHA) employees (SF50s required) and all US Citizens.

The duties and responsibilities of the Clinical Laboratory Scientist include but are not limited to the following:

• Uses Pathology knowledge and understanding of laboratory operations and its relationship to the hospital organization to provide data, advisory, inspection, training and problem-solving services on specific projects, programs, and functions.
• Adapts, implements, and integrates the use of software to specific laboratory applications and processes, including the use of office automation software.
• Implements various laboratory associated packages and sustains operation of the laboratory system using knowledge of laboratory computer system analysis, program/testing techniques, computer language and program design. Orders computer supplies, paper and labels to assure uninterrupted test reporting.
• Develops and recommends new policies and procedures regarding the installation and use of the Laboratory Information System (LIS) in conjunction with the overall Hospital Information System (HIS). Properly documents all installations, services,
• Advises all organization levels on the function and capability of the LIS.
• Provides consultation and training on laboratory computer functions to laboratory staff, residents, attending physicians and other hospital staff as required. Training will include computer functions, Pathology specific computer functions, test ordering options, security requirements, etc. Provides user assistance and training for the use of computers and maintains personal computers, workstations, and thin client devices connected to the VAMC LAN, VA Intranet, and VA WAN.
• Responsible for maintenance of the computer system and security keys submitting work orders for maintenance of terminals and computers for laboratory access to VISTA, CPRS, and VISTArelated output devices. Oversees and maintains instrument interfaces with VISTA to assure that laboratory tests are reported with minimal delay. Uses workflow, process and system knowledge to develop and troubleshoot computer issues.
• Works with Clinical Application Coordinators on laboratory test-related issues and problems. Works with Ol&T and DSS to acquire and organize data needed by employees of the Pathology or hospital administration.
• Serves as the Pathology Automated Data Processing Application Coordinator (ADPAC)
• Analyzes emerging trends, software and technology and adopts appropriate methods for local programs to meet agency goals. - Writes procedures and prepares documentation related to the LIS for compliance with regulatory agencies (e.g. College of American Pathologists (CAP), Joint Commission (JC), American Association of Blood Banks (AABB), etc.) and audits processes for compliance. Maintains current knowledge of local, federal, regulatory, and medical device reporting requirements. Develops and implements quality assurance computer protocols that meet all relevant regulatory requirements.
• Communicates with VISN and National software developers to build or modify test files; tests and validates software packages as required. This includes coding and mapping for lab tests, reporting, billing and workload recording.
• Uses an interdisciplinary team approach to implement BCE and conducts periodic in-services as indicated for BCE training as it relates to laboratory functions.
• Works off-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays as priorities demonstrate a need.
• Works independently to plan, organize, set priorities, works as a team member and effectively complete assignments.
• Performs laboratory tests in the pathology laboratory on an "as needed" basis to be determined by the Laboratory Manager. - Attends regularly scheduled hospital and departmental meetings, as required.
• Approves timecards as assigned in the Delegation of Authority.

Other duties as assigned


Work Schedule:Monday - Friday, 7:30am - 4:00pm
Telework: Not Authorized
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 000000
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive.Contact visn15edrp@va.gov, the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

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.
• 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 dentification 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

Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.

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.
• Certification. 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, Laboratory Director, or National Quality and Compliance Officer).

May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).

Grade Determinations: GS-12
Experience. 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-11) is required for all GS-12 assignments.

AND

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

(a) Knowledge of concepts, principles, and methodology of clinical laboratory technology in relation to laboratory information systems.
(b) Knowledge of laboratory operations and their relationship to the organization.
(c) Knowledge of laboratory computer systems sufficient to implement various laboratory associated packages and sustain operation of the laboratory system.
(d) Knowledge of compliance and regulatory requirements for laboratory functions.
(e) Ability to adapt, implement and integrate the use of software to specific laboratory applications and processes, including the use of office automation software.
(f) Ability to independently plan, organize, set priorities, work as a team member, and effectively complete assignments.

Preferred Experience: Laboratory experience with Electronic Health Record Modernization (EHRM).

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-12.

How you will be evaluated

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:

• Resume

Special Note for Applications: To complete your application, please use the following link https://vacareers.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/Resume.docx to download the standard Clinical Resume Document. This one-page document does not need to be modified and must be uploaded into the two-page restricted 'Resume' document upload field.

Your full resume/CV may be uploaded without page limitation into the 'Other' document upload field.

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
• Other (1)
• PCS Orders
• Performance Appraisal
• Professional Certification
• 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.

Veterans' preference does not apply for internal or other current permanent Federal agency employees.

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