Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Blood Bank)

Full Job Description

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) develops, performs, evaluates, interprets, correlates, and validates the accuracy of laboratory procedures and results in line with current laboratory regulatory requirements.

The work is performed 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.

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.

Have a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college/university including 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of biological science (with one course in microbiology), 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of chemistry (with one course in organic or biochemistry).

Have certification as an MLS, MT or microbiology from ASCP BOC or AMT At least 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.

You 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).

Grandfathering Provision.

All MTs employed in VHA in this occupation on the effective date of this qualification standard are considered to have met all qualification requirements for the title, series and grade held, including positive education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the occupation.

For employees who do not meet all the basic requirements in this standard, but who met the qualifications applicable to the position at the time they were appointed to the position, the following provisions apply: (1) MTs that do not meet the basic requirements for education and certification may be reassigned, promoted up to and including the full performance (journey) level, or changed to lower grade within the occupation, but may not be promoted beyond the journey level or placed in supervisory or managerial positions.

(2) MTs who are appointed on a temporary basis prior to the effective date of the qualification standard may not have their temporary appointment extended or be reappointed on a temporary or permanent basis until they fully meet the basic requirements of the standard.

(3) MTs initially grandfathered into this occupation who subsequently obtain certification that meets all the basic requirements of this qualification standard must maintain the required credentials as a condition of employment in the occupation.

(4) If MTs who were retained in this occupation under this provision leave the occupation, the MT loses protected status and must meet the full VA qualification standard requirements in effect at the time of reentry to the occupation.

Preferred Experience but not required: Two years of Blood bank experience (reference lab or trauma center) 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-11. Physical Requirements: In accordance with VA Directive and Handbook 5019. Major Duties:

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist correlates abnormal laboratory 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.

Duties may include but are not limited to: Performs board range of laboratory procedures, recognizes deviation of results; analyzes and corrects problems.

Evaluates and solves problems related to collection and processing of biological specimens for analysis. Maintains and documents optimal functioning of laboratory equipment.

Performs and documents quality control, quality assurance activities and corrective actions . Adheres to practices and regulations governing biosafety and biosecurity in the workplace.

Identify discrepancies, solve problems and suggests solutions.

Evaluates and implements new techniques and procedures in the laboratory; equipment, method comparison and establishment of reference intervals.

Assists with instruction and training of new employees and students; conducting inservice training and continuing education program.

May be responsible for specific targeted laboratory projects including safety officer, analyzer specialist, primary operation on new test systems, quality control, supply control and coordinator for competency assessment or proficiency/survey program.

Organization of work and ability to set priorities to meet deadlines. Work Schedule: Full-Time 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM, including weekends & holidays as priorities demonstrate a need.

Telework: Not Authorized Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 07413F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized