Lead Veteran Healthcare: Chief of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (Physician) Position
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to those who have served in our nation’s military. A critical component of this mission is the delivery of precise, timely, and compassionate laboratory diagnostics. We are currently looking for a dedicated and experienced physician to serve as the Chief of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service (P&LMS) at the VA facility in Hampton, Virginia.
Job Responsibilities
As the Chief of P&LMS, you will report directly to the Chief of Staff and hold accountability for the following:
- Clinical Leadership: Performing clinical duties for at least 25% of your duty hours while overseeing a full range of lab services including Hematology, Microbiology, and Blood Banking.
- Administrative Oversight: Managing day-to-day operations, including policy formulation, resource planning, and equipment procurement.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring all services meet standards set by the Joint Commission, OSHA, FDA, and VA Central Office.
- Mentorship: Educating and mentoring medical residents and trainees to foster the next generation of pathologists.
Requirements
To be considered for this prestigious position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Doctorate in Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine.
- Current, unrestricted medical license.
- Board certification (or eligibility) in Pathology.
- U.S. Citizenship (with limited exceptions).
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Salary & Benefits Overview
The position offers a competitive salary structure commensurate with experience, alongside one of the best benefits packages in the federal sector.
| Feature | Benefit Detail |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $350,000 - $400,000 per year |
| Paid Time Off | 50-55 days (Annual, Sick, & Federal Holidays) |
| Retirement | Federal Pension + 401K (up to 5% matching) |
| Insurance | Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Long-Term Care |
| Malpractice | Free liability protection with tail coverage |
Serving as the Chief of Pathology at the VA is more than a job; it is a calling to serve those who have given so much. If you are a board-certified physician looking for a leadership role that balances clinical expertise with strategic administration, we encourage you to apply and join our team in Hampton, Virginia.
Why This Chief Of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service (Physician) Job Matters
Lead the future of laboratory medicine for those who served—advance your career as a Chief of Pathology at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Chief Of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service (Physician) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a visionary Chief of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service (P&LMS) in Hampton, Virginia. In this leadership role, you will oversee clinical, administrative, and programmatic operations, ensuring the highest standards of care for our nation's Veterans while managing a diverse department of laboratory services.
Requirements for Chief Of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service (Physician)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply for non-citizens when qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine degree from an accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted medical license in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Completion of an accredited residency program.
- Board Certification or eligibility by the American Board of Pathology.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and background investigation.
- Must be able to successfully complete a drug screening and participate in random drug testing.
- Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Chief Of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service (Physician)
- Demonstrated experience in administrative leadership within a pathology or laboratory environment.
- Strong background in regulatory compliance (Joint Commission, CAP, OSHA, FDA).
- Proven ability to mentor medical residents and staff.
- Experience in resource planning and labor management partnerships.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary and annual performance bonuses.
- ✓50-55 days of paid time off (annual, sick, and Federal holidays).
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401k with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Free malpractice liability protection with tail coverage.
- ✓CME reimbursement of up to $1,000 per year.
💡 How to Apply Chief Of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service (Physician) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Chief Of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service (Physician) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download the mandatory Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers website.
- Upload the Clinical Resume to the 'Resume' section of your application.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package including your detailed CV/resume.
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview invitations.
💡 General Tips
- Submit your application early; the agency reviews applications in cycles starting June 15, 2026.
- Ensure your medical license and board certification details are clearly documented.
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided to avoid delays in processing.
- Tailor your resume to highlight your leadership achievements in a clinical setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an on-site position based in Hampton, Virginia, requiring physical presence to manage laboratory operations.
What is the commitment regarding residency training?
Candidates must have completed an ACGME or AOA-accredited core specialty residency. Exceptions may be considered for specific gap-year scenarios or established clinical expertise.
Does the VA offer recruitment incentives?
Yes, a recruitment or relocation incentive may be authorized for highly qualified candidates at the discretion of the agency.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Providing care to millions of Veterans, the VA is dedicated to innovation, research, and clinical excellence. By joining the VHA, you become part of a professional community that values integrity, commitment, and excellence in every aspect of patient care.