Become a Clinical Laboratory Scientist with the New Jersey VA
The New Jersey VA Health Care System is actively recruiting skilled professionals to join our dedicated team in East Orange. If you are a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) looking for a meaningful career, this role offers the opportunity to provide life-changing diagnostic services to the men and women who served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As an Intermittent Clinical Laboratory Scientist, you will function as a generalist, rotating through various departments including:
- Blood Bank & Hematology
- Chemistry & Special Chemistry
- Microbiology & Molecular Diagnostics
- Coagulation & Urinalysis
Key duties include performing complex diagnostic tests, maintaining laboratory instrumentation, troubleshooting system errors, and ensuring that all results meet stringent quality assurance standards. You will also participate in the education of students and new staff, ensuring the continued success of our laboratory programs.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
Comparison Table: Qualifications
| Requirement Type | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's Degree in Medical Technology or related science |
| Experience | 1+ years (or qualifying graduate education) |
| Certification | ASCP or AMT Generalist Certification (MLS/MT) |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive salary range for the GS-11 grade level:
- Minimum: $101,849 per year
- Maximum: $132,411 per year
Benefits
Working for the VA provides access to a comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement savings (TSP), and generous paid leave.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the VA-provided clinical resume template.
- Be Specific: Detail every aspect of your experience; if it is not documented, it cannot be credited.
- Stay Organized: Ensure your transcript and certification proofs are easily accessible in your digital file folder.
Serving our Veterans requires precision, dedication, and heart. If you are ready to take the next step in your career, the New Jersey VA Health Care System invites you to apply today.
Why This Intermittent Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Matters
Join the New Jersey VA Health Care System and make a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's heroes as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist.
Intermittent Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking dedicated Clinical Laboratory Scientists for the New Jersey VA Health Care System at the East Orange campus. This intermittent position serves as a vital member of the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Service, where you will perform complex diagnostic testing across multiple laboratory sections, including Blood Bank, Hematology, Microbiology, and Chemistry. You will play a crucial role in patient diagnosis and treatment by ensuring the highest standards of quality control and accuracy.
Requirements for Intermittent Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific exceptions apply).
- Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution.
- Current certification as a Generalist Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) or Medical Technologist (MT) via ASCP or AMT.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical evaluation and drug screening.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Intermittent Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- 2-5 years of direct clinical laboratory experience.
- Demonstrated expertise in laboratory workflow, specimen handling, and troubleshooting.
- Strong background in regulatory compliance, quality management, and quality assurance.
- Proven ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary with potential for increases
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Generous federal retirement savings plans (TSP)
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave accrual
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training within the VA system
💡 How to Apply Intermittent Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Intermittent Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the mandatory VA Clinical Resume document.
- Prepare your documentation, including certification proof and transcripts.
- Submit your complete application package via the online portal by the closing date.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Upload the specific VA Clinical Resume template to ensure your application meets formatting standards.
- Be detailed and specific when describing your past work experience; do not rely on the hiring team to make assumptions.
- Ensure all educational documents, including transcripts and foreign equivalency certificates, are clearly attached.
- Review your application thoroughly before submission to ensure all required fields are complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an intermittent position?
An intermittent position means you work on an 'as needed' basis, offering flexibility in scheduling and tours, which will be discussed during the interview process.
Can I apply without a current certification?
Applicants who do not hold valid certification may be considered under specific circumstances if they are eligible for the MLS certification exam, though they will be subject to specific supervision and promotion restrictions.
Is there flexibility in the work schedule?
Yes, as an intermittent position, you will work on an as-needed basis with scheduling determined through interviews.
Is a security clearance required?
All applicants are subject to a background and security investigation as part of the hiring process.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working at the VA means more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence, integrity, and compassion.