Intermittent Clinical Laboratory Scientist

This Open Continuous Announcement is for Intermittent Clinical Laboratory Scientist positions at the East Orange VA, part of the New Jersey VA Health Care System. As generalists, selected candidates will rotate through various laboratory sections, perform complex diagnostic testing, validate results, maintain laboratory instruments, and ensure accuracy and quality in patient care.

****THIS IS AN OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT**** This is an open continuous announcement until September 30, 2026. Qualified applicants will be considered and referred as vacancies become available. Positions will be within the Pathology and Laboratory service at the East Orange Campus. Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional This position serves as an Intermittent Clinical Laboratory Scientist within the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service at the East Orange VA, part of the New Jersey VA Health Care System. The incumbent functions as a generalist and rotates through multiple laboratory sections, including Blood Bank, Hematology, Chemistry, Coagulation, Microbiology/Molecular, Serology, Special Chemistry, Urinalysis, and reference testing. On an as needed basis. Duties include, but are not limited to the following: Performing a broad range of routine and complex laboratory procedures. Analyzes and corrects problems using scientific principles using a comprehensive knowledge of professional medical technology/clinical laboratory science principles, practices, concepts, and theories providing for sound independent work. Performs testing by being able to interpret and apply complex written instructions. Organizing workload, prioritizing urgent and routine tests, and meeting turnaround requirements. Evaluates and solves problems related to collection and processing of biological specimens for analysis, taking into account physiologic processes and requirements. Maintaining and documenting optimal instrument performance; performing calibrations, troubleshooting, repairs, and preventive maintenance. Uses, calibrates, identifies malfunctions, repairs, and performs preventive maintenance of laboratory equipment. Diagnoses deviations in test performance due to instrument malfunction and troubleshoots deviations to maintain optimal operating conditions and accuracy of test results. Uses independent technical judgment to analyze and interpret laboratory results. Performs and documents quality control and quality assurance activities and corrective actions related to test performance using statistical principles and theories of performance improvement. Identifies discrepancies, solves problems, and presents solutions for testing platforms, quality control or patient results that deviate from expected performance. 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. 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. 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. Adhering to biosafety, biosecurity, and infection prevention regulations. Communicating effectively as part of the healthcare team. Performing other related duties as assigned. Work Schedule: Intermittent Positions- Applicants for intermittent schedules will be interviewed to determine their specific availability for days and tours. 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). Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 12242F Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized PCS Appraised Value Offer (AVO): Not Authorized

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 identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Must pass pre-employment physical evaluation. 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.