The Point of Care CLS has knowledge of professional Clinical laboratory science principles, practice , concepts and theories that supports various areas in the clinical laboratory. This position has additional duties to focus on pre-analytic , analytic, and post analytic processes of point of care testing. Assists the Ancillary Testing Coordinator with staff orientation, training, competency, record reviews and analyzer function/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. English Language Proficiency: Dental assistants must be proficient in spoken and written English. 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: Candidates must have either (1) or (2) below: (1) Generalist certification as an MLS given by ASCP BOC or AMT. (2) Generalist certification as an MT given by ASCP BOR or AMT. 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 Determination: GS-11 Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Full Performance) This is considered FPL for a CLS. A CLS at this level independently carries out the day-to-day operations in the laboratory. The CLS develops, performs, evaluates, interprets, correlates, and validates the accuracy of laboratory procedures and results in line with current laboratory regulatory requirements. The work performed may be in a variety of laboratory specialties such as chemistry, microbiology, immunology, hematology, and immunohematology. Testing procedures are performed on a variety of biological specimens and/or environmental samples using manual or automated methods. In addition to routine testing, the CLS conducts quality control and routine maintenance of instrumentation and troubleshooting. 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. 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. Demonstrated 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. References: FORMER VA HANDBOOK REFERENCE 5005/46, PART II, APPENDIX G24 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-011. Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
VA Careers - Microbiology/Molecular Clinical Laboratory Scientist: https://youtube.com/embed/eSDGhIwZKdw Total-Rewards-of-an-Allied-Health-VA-Career-Brochure.pdf Clinical Laboratory Scientist: vacareers.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/Total-Rewards-of-a-Medical-Technologist-Career-Flyer.pdf Preferred Experience: Prior experience with 1 yr Point of Care Testing Major duties include, but are not limited to the following: Performs a broad range of laboratory procedures. Ability to read, interpret and apply advanced and complex laboratory procedures, recognizes deviation from expected results, analyzes and corrects problems using scientific principles. 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. Performs and documents quality control and assurance activities and corrective actions related to test performance using statistical principles and theories of performance improvement. Adheres to practices and regulations governing biosafety in the workplace. Identifies discrepancies, solves problems, presents solutions, and answers inquiries regarding test results, methodology, test specificity, test sensitivity, and specificfactors that may influence test results. The CLS evaluates and implements new techniques and procedures in the laboratory in terms of equipment, method comparison, and establishment of reference intervals using statistical methods and theoretical knowledge. Assists in the instruction and training and competency of employees. Communicates effectively and courteously while working as a healthcare team member. Provides excellent service to the customer (healthcare providers, patients, and others). Organizes work and sets priorities to meet deadlines. Assists in the collection and interpretation of data for quality assurance monitors and indicators for QC practices and reviews all data on a regular basis. Assists in the coordination and administration of proficiency testing procedures according to lab policy. Assists the supervisor and technical specialist with staff orientation, training, competency, record reviews and reagent and analyzer function/troubleshooting. Assist the supervisor and technical specialist in the preparation for audits and inspections and is familiar with regulatory requirements for the chemistry and special chemistry sections of the laboratory. Performs complex maintenance procedures and is consulted as the in-house expert for troubleshooting problems. The lead CLS also provides technical advice to staff and other health care members and oversees work assignments and workflow. Work Schedule: Perm Full-time M-F 7:30-4:00 EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact susan.bringel@va.gov , the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year) Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child. Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66. Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement) Telework: NOT Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 07414F