Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Ancillary Testing Coordinator) w/EDRP

The Veterans Administration Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System, Harlingen, TX is seeking a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Ancillary Testing Coordinator), Pathology and Laboratory Service to perform key duties in clinical laboratory and anatomic pathology. This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP). The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Ancillary Testing Coordinator) will perform clinical laboratory procedures to include a variety of biological specimens and/or environmental samples using manual or automated techniques. The Clinical Laboratory Scientist performs a broad range of laboratory procedures to include pre-analytic, analytic, and post analytic processes with minimal technical supervision. Utilizes known statistics and good quality practice applied to laboratory functions. Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) waived testing, phlebotomy, CLIA non waived testing including but not exclusively to: hematology, immunohematology, clinical chemistry, immunology, toxicology, urinalysis, referral laboratory, microbiology, and specimen processing. Recognizes data with life-threatening (critical) and urgent implications and understands the importance of quickly bringing the data to the attention of the patients' physician and/or nursing staff. Evaluates and solves problems related to collection and processing of biological specimens for analysis considering 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. Recognizes and diagnosis deviation in the pre-analytical, analytical, and post analytical process for test and instrument performance and analyzes and corrects problems using scientific principles. 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. 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. Gives direction and guidance using underlying principles of laboratory testing. Organizes work and sets priorities to meet deadlines. The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Ancillary Testing Coordinator) develops and recommends policies and procedures for procurement and service requirements for ancillary testing (testing outside the physical confines of the main laboratory) as mandated by VHA that include ensuring CLIA licenses are maintained for off-site facilities such as Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOC). The Clinical Laboratory Scientist serves as a recognized technical expert to provide authoritative advice, training, troubleshooting, quality assessment and ancillary testing program consultation. Operates a government vehicle. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday (8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact vhaedrpprogramsupport@va.gov, the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more 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) Telework: This position is not eligible for Telework. Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 55611F