Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist: Career at VA Boston Healthcare System
Are you a skilled Clinical Laboratory Scientist looking to elevate your career while serving those who have served our nation? The VA Boston Healthcare System is currently recruiting for a Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist to join our team in Brockton, Massachusetts. This leadership role offers a unique opportunity to combine your technical expertise in medical technology with management responsibilities, ensuring our laboratory services meet the highest standards of excellence.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist, you will act as a bridge between frontline testing and laboratory management. Key duties include:
- Technical Leadership: Develop protocols, validate new testing methodologies, and oversee quality control systems.
- Staff Management: Coach team members, distribute work assignments, and identify training and professional development needs.
- Operational Oversight: Ensure the laboratory remains compliant with all regulatory and accreditation standards.
- Consultation: Serve as a technical expert, providing guidance to physicians, nurses, and other clinical staff regarding diagnostic results.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's Degree or Higher |
| Certification | MLS (ASCP/AMT) or MT (ASCP/AMT) |
| Experience | 1 Year at GS-11 equivalent |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen required |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet strict federal standards. These include U.S. citizenship, proficiency in English, and valid professional certification as a generalist. Applicants must also pass a pre-employment drug screening and be prepared to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $111,781 to $145,319 per year, reflecting the specialized nature of the role within the federal government.
Benefits
Beyond a competitive salary, the VA offers:
- EDRP: Student loan reimbursement up to $200,000.
- Leave: Generous annual and sick leave accruals.
- Stability: A comprehensive federal benefits package including health insurance and retirement plans.
Application Tips
Ensure your application package is complete. Use the provided template for your clinical resume, and be sure to attach all necessary transcripts and certifications. Double-check your submission before the August 13, 2026, deadline.
Serving our Veterans as a Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist is more than a job—it is a mission. If you possess the technical acumen and leadership spirit to thrive in a fast-paced clinical environment, we encourage you to apply and join our team in Massachusetts.
Why This Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Matters
Take the next step in your career with the VA Boston Healthcare System, where your leadership in clinical laboratory science directly impacts the lives of our nation's Veterans.
Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Overview
The VA Boston Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist to oversee laboratory operations in Brockton, Massachusetts. This role is pivotal in maintaining high standards of testing accuracy, managing staff workflows, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. As a key member of the Pathology and Lab Services team, you will provide technical guidance, troubleshoot complex instrumentation, and facilitate team development to ensure the highest quality of care for Veterans.
Requirements for Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific recruitment exceptions apply per VA policy)
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution
- Current Generalist certification as an MLS or MT from ASCP/AMT, or relevant categorical/specialist certification
- Minimum of one year of experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level
- Subject to a background and security investigation
- Ability to pass a pre-employment urinalysis for drug screening
- Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination requirements
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- Proven experience in laboratory instrumentation troubleshooting and repair
- Strong leadership capabilities with experience in staff coaching and work distribution
- Expertise in regulatory compliance, quality control, and laboratory safety protocols
- Demonstrated ability to develop and validate new testing methodologies
- Excellent communication skills for cross-departmental collaboration
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive salary based on special salary rate
- âś“Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) with potential awards up to $200,000
- âś“Generous paid time off and flexible scheduling opportunities
- âś“Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options
- âś“Federal retirement savings plan with employer matching
- âś“Annual leave accrual based on total federal service
đź’ˇ How to Apply Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download the mandatory Clinical Resume Document from the provided link.
- Prepare your comprehensive resume, transcript, and proof of certification.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package, including all required documentation, by the closing date of August 13, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview requests.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific and clear in your resume; do not assume the hiring team knows your previous duties.
- Ensure your professional certification is clearly highlighted.
- Upload the required one-page standard Clinical Resume Document into the restricted resume field.
- Check your application status frequently via the USAJOBS dashboard.
- Ensure all supporting documents, such as SF-50s for current federal employees, are included to avoid disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP, which may provide student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on individual eligibility and program review.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is an onsite position located in Brockton, Massachusetts, and is not eligible for telework or virtual status.
What is the work schedule for this role?
The position is full-time, operating Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest, most technologically advanced integrated healthcare system in the United States. We are committed to President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Our "I CARE" values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—guide everything we do.