Clinical Laboratory Scientist: Career Opportunities at the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring Clinical Laboratory Scientists for the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System in Pensacola, Florida. This role is vital to our mission of providing world-class healthcare to those who have served our country. If you are a certified laboratory professional looking for a stable career with excellent benefits and the potential for student loan reimbursement, this may be the perfect opportunity for you.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Generalist), you will be responsible for:
- Managing clinical laboratory testing and ensuring quality assurance.
- Collecting, labeling, and analyzing biological specimens.
- Maintaining laboratory instrumentation and troubleshooting malfunctions.
- Interpreting technical data and flagging discrepancies.
- Contributing to laboratory standard operating procedures.
Requirements
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field.
- Active certification (ASCP or AMT).
- Proficiency in English.
- Ability to pass a drug test and physical exam.
Salary and Grade Comparison
| Grade Level | Experience/Education Required |
|---|---|
| GS-07 | Entry-level, meets basic requirements |
| GS-09 | 1 year experience or Master's degree |
| GS-11 | 1 year experience (GS-09 level) or Ph.D. |
Benefits
Employees at the VA enjoy industry-leading benefits, including:
- EDRP: Up to $200,000 in student loan debt reduction.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401(k) matching.
- Paid Leave: Up to 50 days of total paid time off annually.
- Work-Life Balance: Access to health, dental, and childcare subsidies.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, ensure your resume highlights specific duties for each role. Do not skip the mandatory online questionnaire, as incomplete applications cannot be processed. Remember to upload all necessary transcripts and certification proof at the time of application.
Serving the Veterans of the Gulf Coast is a rewarding career path. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply through the official USAJOBS portal before the September 2026 deadline.
Why This Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Matters
Join the Gulf Coast VA team and advance your career as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist in beautiful Pensacola, where your expertise directly impacts the lives of those who served.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Clinical Laboratory Scientist to support the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System. This position is ideal for professionals committed to delivering high-quality diagnostic insights within a collaborative, patient-focused environment. This is an open continuous announcement, with roles available from GS-07 to GS-11 based on qualifications.
Requirements for Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply per VA policy).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution.
- Valid certification (MLS, MT, or CLS) from ASCP-BOC, ASCP-BOR, or AMT.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination.
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation.
- Selective Service registration for males born after Dec 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- For GS-09: One year of creditable experience at the GS-07 level or a Master's degree in a relevant field.
- For GS-11: One year of creditable experience at the GS-09 level or a Ph.D. in a relevant field.
- Demonstrated ability to perform independent clinical analysis.
- Strong informatics skills and experience with laboratory instrumentation troubleshooting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) with 5% employer matching.
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off per year including annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months.
- ✓Childcare subsidies for eligible employees.
💡 How to Apply Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job
- Create or sign in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume using the standard Clinical Resume Document as a template.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation including transcripts, certifications, and applicable SF-50s.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes dates of employment (month/year) and average hours worked per week.
- Double-check that your certification documents are clearly legible.
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template to ensure your application meets formatting standards.
- Monitor your email for status updates after the announcement closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position requiring physical presence in the laboratory.
What is the Education Debt Reduction Program?
The EDRP is a student loan reimbursement program for eligible VA employees, offering up to $200,000 in assistance.
Can I qualify without a certification?
Generalist certification from recognized bodies like ASCP or AMT is a mandatory requirement for this position.
What is the trial period?
New hires serve a 1 to 2-year trial period to evaluate fitness for the role.
Is relocation assistance offered?
No, this position does not offer relocation assistance.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. We pride ourselves on offering comprehensive, whole-health care to our Veterans. Working at our Pensacola location offers not only a professional environment but also a prime location on the Gulf Coast, known for its beaches and high quality of life.