Advance Your Career as a Supervisory Clinical Laboratory Scientist with the VA
Are you an experienced laboratory professional ready to transition into a leadership role? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is offering an exceptional opportunity for a Supervisory Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) to make a significant impact within the James A. Haley VA Medical Center system in Florida. This position is perfect for dedicated leaders who are passionate about diagnostic excellence and clinical operations.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory CLS, you will be the backbone of laboratory quality and efficiency. Key responsibilities include:
- Leadership & Supervision: You will manage, mentor, and evaluate the performance of laboratory staff, fostering a culture of professional growth and accuracy.
- Operational Excellence: Oversee daily lab workflows, ensuring specimen integrity and timely reporting of critical diagnostic data.
- Regulatory Compliance: Maintain rigorous adherence to accreditation standards and safety protocols. You will serve on the Laboratory Safety Committee and lead corrective action plans.
- Fiscal & Administrative Oversight: Manage equipment and supply acquisition, monitor laboratory budgets, and act as a Contracting Officer Representative (COR) when necessary.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-12 position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in a clinical laboratory field.
- Certification: Active generalist certification as an MLS (ASCP BOC/AMT) or MT (ASCP BOR/AMT).
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
Comparison of Potential Career Paths
| Feature | Clinical Lab Scientist | Supervisory CLS (This Role) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Individual testing | Lab-wide operations & management |
| Focus | Bench work | Strategic planning & leadership |
| Regulatory | Compliance follower | Compliance architect |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $114,427 to $148,758 per year, reflecting the seniority and specialized technical leadership required for this role.
Benefits
Joining the VA comes with a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance and dental/vision options.
- A secure retirement through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Ample paid time off, including sick leave and federal holidays.
- Eligibility for Student Loan Repayment programs (if applicable).
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Use the specific VA-provided resume template to ensure your experience is mapped correctly to their system.
- Quantify Results: When describing past leadership, mention specific improvements in efficiency or compliance you achieved.
- Detail Everything: Do not leave gaps; include all volunteer and relevant technical experience.
If you are a clinical laboratory professional ready to step into a high-impact leadership role, this position with the VA Tampa Healthcare System is an ideal fit. Apply by July 20, 2026, to contribute to the care of our nation’s Veterans.
Why This Supervisory Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Matters
Lead a dedicated team of laboratory professionals and advance your clinical career while serving those who served our nation at the James A. Haley VA Medical Center.
Supervisory Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Supervisory Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) to join our Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service. This role serves as a key leader within our Community Based Outpatient Clinics in Florida, overseeing daily laboratory operations, staff performance, and regulatory compliance. You will play a vital part in ensuring our Veterans receive the high-quality, accurate, and timely diagnostic support they deserve, while collaborating with a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
Requirements for Supervisory Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution
- Current generalist certification as an MLS (ASCP BOC/AMT) or MT (ASCP BOR/AMT)
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening
- Ability to obtain and maintain a background security investigation
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- At least one year of direct supervisory experience in a clinical laboratory setting
- Strong knowledge of laboratory quality management programs and principles
- Demonstrated ability to manage fiscal resources and laboratory equipment needs
- Experience with regulatory inspections and accrediting agency requirements
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance plans
- ✓Retirement program including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual
- ✓Federal holidays and paid leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
- ✓Flexible spending accounts
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details on USAJobs.
- Prepare your resume and all required documentation, including proof of certification and SF-50 if applicable.
- Download and complete the required clinical resume document provided by the VA.
- Log in to your USAJobs account or create a new profile.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire and upload all necessary documents.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of July 20, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your supervisory duties and specific lab experience.
- Be precise in your responses to the online questionnaire; avoid making assumptions about the reviewer's knowledge of your role.
- Double-check that all required documents, especially your certification proof, are uploaded in the correct sections.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues near the deadline.
- Check your email frequently for status notifications after the application period closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Supervisory Clinical Laboratory Scientist?
You will manage laboratory operations, oversee subordinate staff, ensure regulatory compliance, maintain quality control programs, and serve as a technical advisor to healthcare providers.
Can I apply if my degree is from a foreign university?
Yes, provided you submit an evaluation from an acceptable agency confirming equivalency to a U.S. clinical laboratory science degree program or documentation of certification eligibility.
Is travel required for this position?
The role requires periodic travel between various community-based clinics and medical center facilities in the region as part of your supervisory and oversight responsibilities.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to honor America's Veterans by providing them with the highest quality, compassionate care. The VA Tampa Healthcare System is a leader in clinical innovation, research, and education, operating multiple clinics across central Florida to ensure that our Veterans receive care in their own communities.