Launch Your Career as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist with the Indian Health Service
Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to make a lasting impact? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking Clinical Laboratory Scientists to fill critical roles across the United States. This position offers a unique blend of high-level diagnostic work and the chance to support underserved American Indian and Alaska Native populations.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, you will perform a wide range of essential laboratory duties, including:
- Conducting routine and complex testing in chemistry, microbiology, hematology, and immunology.
- Managing specimen collection, evaluation, and preservation.
- Maintaining, calibrating, and troubleshooting sophisticated laboratory equipment.
- Ensuring rigorous quality control and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Providing technical guidance to junior staff and contributing to laboratory quality assurance.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific educational and professional benchmarks. You must possess a degree in clinical laboratory science or a related field from an accredited university. Additionally, candidates are subject to background checks and must adhere to the IHS immunization policies.
| Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GS-07 | Bachelor's Degree | 1 year specialized experience or equivalent |
| GS-09 | Bachelor's/Master's | 1 year specialized experience at GS-07 level |
| GS-11 | Graduate/Ph.D. | 1 year specialized experience at GS-09 level |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range starting at $72,849 and extending up to $140,165 annually, depending on experience, grade level, and location.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, IHS employees benefit from a robust compensation package, which includes federal health and retirement benefits, potential for student loan repayment, and generous leave accrual rates.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of selection, use the USAJOBS Resume Builder. Ensure your experience descriptions include specific duties, dates of employment, and hours worked per week. Always complete the required USA Hire Assessments promptly after submitting your initial application.
If you are ready to utilize your skills to serve those who need it most, the Indian Health Service welcomes your application. Apply today to help us improve the health and well-being of our nation's first people.
Why This Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Matters
Advance your medical career with the Indian Health Service and provide life-saving diagnostics to American Indian and Alaska Native communities across the nation.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Overview
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking dedicated Clinical Laboratory Scientists to join our interdisciplinary healthcare teams. In this role, you will perform critical laboratory diagnostics, support patient care initiatives, and contribute to the health outcomes of over 2 million individuals. This is a unique opportunity to serve diverse communities while enjoying competitive federal benefits and professional growth.
Requirements for Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must pass a federal background investigation.
- Must comply with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must register with the Selective Service.
- Must be able to successfully pass E-Verify employment verification.
- Possession of a Bachelor’s or graduate degree in clinical laboratory science or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- Professional certification in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) or Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS).
- Experience in complex laboratory environments including blood banking, molecular diagnostics, or microbiology.
- Superior Academic Achievement (GPA of 2.95+ or membership in a national scholastic honor society).
- Ability to work independently in remote or community-focused clinical settings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Opportunities for student loan repayment through IHS, NHSC, and HRSA programs.
- ✓Accrual of annual and sick leave based on federal service.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
- ✓Access to comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
💡 How to Apply Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job
- Review the full job announcement and gather all required documentation, including transcripts.
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile and resume.
- Submit your application through the online portal, ensuring all questionnaires are completed.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments within the designated testing window.
- Monitor your USAJOBS account for status updates and follow-up notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required information is captured.
- Be specific about your hours worked per week and exact job duties in your resume.
- Submit unofficial transcripts early to expedite the review process.
- Do not wait until the final day to apply to account for potential technical issues.
- Ensure your responses to the online assessment are honest and based on your own experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position requires on-site work in designated clinical facilities.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. Citizen?
U.S. Citizenship is a mandatory requirement for this federal position.
Are there multiple locations for this job?
Yes, this position is open in various locations across Arizona, California, New Mexico, Oregon, and Washington.
What is the residency requirement?
There is no specific residency requirement, but you must be a U.S. Citizen.
Can I apply to multiple locations?
Yes, you may select up to three locations for consideration.
Job from Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service, an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services, provides comprehensive health services to approximately 2.6 million American Indians and Alaska Natives. Our employees work in dynamic, interdisciplinary teams, focusing on community-oriented care and innovative medical solutions. Joining the IHS means becoming part of a mission-driven organization where your work directly improves the health outcomes of our patients.