Clinical Lab Scientist (Microbiology)

This position is located in the Microbiology department, within Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service of the Albany VA Medical Center in Albany, NY. This is considered the full performance level for nonsupervisory positions. A CLS at this level develops, performs, evaluates, interprets, correlates, and validates the accuracy of laboratory procedures and results.

The duties and responsibilities of the Clinical Lab Scientist -Microbiology include but are not limited to the following: - Performs a broad range of laboratory testing in the microbiology department, including 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. - Diagnoses deviations in test performance due to instrument malfunction. - 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 and biosecurity in the workplace. - Identifies discrepancies, solves problems, and presents 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. - Assesses 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. Interprets findings and makes recommendations. - Incorporates principles of educational methodology in the instruction and training of new employees and students and in the laboratory's in-service/ continuing education program. - 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. - After training is completed, it may be requisite to train new employees and students as they are on-boarded. - Monitoring proficiency testing functions within the microbiology department. - Ensures that laboratory tests and procedures are consistent with accrediting agencies standards and requirements. - Assesses ongoing day-to-day compliance with established protocols and guidelines, maintaining awareness and compliance of all applicable regulatory standards. - Any other duties needed to help fulfill patient care.

Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional Work Schedule: Monday through Friday 8:00am-4:30pm with rotating weekends and holidays Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases. When setting pay, a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of higher or unique qualifications or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade). 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) Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior [work experience] or military service experience.

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) Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 75103F

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. English Language Proficiency: Candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.S.C. § 7403 (f).

Education. A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university. Certification. Candidates must meet one of the following certification options below. Generalist certification as an MLS given by ASCP BOC or AMT. Generalist certification as an MT given by ASCP BOR or AMT. Categorical certification or Specialist certification by ASCP 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 Determinations: Clinical Laboratory Scientist, GS-11 Experience. 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level. OR 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. And Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of professional clinical laboratory science principles, practices, concepts, and theories that support sound, independent work.

Knowledge of laboratory quality control and quality assurance procedures and principles of performance improvement. Skill in informatics, laboratory data flow, and laboratory processes. Ability to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair instrumentation. Ability to use independent technical judgment to analyze and interpret laboratory results. Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex written instructions. Ability to communicate, consult, and interact with other members of the health care team, external relations, customer service, and patient education.

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). Preferred Experience: 1 year CLS microbiology experience. 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: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.