Advance Your Career as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist with the VA
Are you a dedicated laboratory professional looking to transition into a career where your work directly impacts patient care? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a skilled Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) to join the team at the Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center in Columbia, South Carolina. This role is critical to the success of our diagnostic services, ensuring that those who served our country receive the highest quality of healthcare.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, you are at the forefront of patient diagnostics. Your daily duties will include:
- Diagnostic Testing: Performing complex routine and specialized laboratory tests.
- Quality Control: Maintaining optimal instrument function and documenting all quality assurance procedures.
- Problem Solving: Troubleshooting instrument malfunctions and analyzing unexpected test results.
- Collaboration: Consulting with healthcare providers to explain test specificity, sensitivity, and clinical implications.
- Mentorship: Training medical students, residents, and new staff members on laboratory best practices.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A Bachelor's degree or higher in Medical Technology or a related science.
- Certification: Active certification as a Generalist MLS/MT through ASCP or AMT.
- Communication: Exceptional proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Integrity: Ability to pass a federal background check and drug screening.
Salary Overview & Comparison
The GS-11 grade level offers a highly competitive salary range. Below is a breakdown of how this compares to general expectations in the clinical sector.
| Feature | Federal VA Position (GS-11) | Private Sector Laboratory |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Salary | $89,185 - $115,947 | Variable |
| Pension | Yes (Traditional) | Rare |
| Health Insurance | Comprehensive Federal | Variable |
| Paid Time Off | 37-50 Days | 15-25 Days |
Benefits
Working for the VA provides more than just a paycheck. You will benefit from a robust federal total rewards package, including:
- Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement: Dual-path retirement through the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual, plus 11 paid holidays.
- Family Support: Paid parental leave and available childcare subsidies.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Download the recommended VA resume template from the official career site.
- Tailor Your Resume: Clearly demonstrate your experience with manual and automated diagnostic methods.
- Follow Procedures: Ensure your transcripts and certification documents are uploaded in the correct fields.
Serving our Veterans through diagnostic excellence is a rewarding career path. If you possess the technical skill and the drive to make a difference, apply to the Columbia VA Health Care System today.
Why This Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Matters
Join the mission to provide world-class laboratory diagnostics for those who served—become a Clinical Laboratory Scientist at the Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Overview
The Columbia VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Clinical Laboratory Scientist to support our Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service. In this vital role, you will perform complex laboratory testing, maintain instrumentation, and ensure high-quality diagnostic accuracy for our Veteran population. This position is based in Columbia, South Carolina, and offers a stable, mission-driven career within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Requirements for Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific hiring exceptions apply).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution.
- Valid generalist certification as an MLS or MT from ASCP or AMT.
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation.
- Completion of a drug screening (urinalysis) prior to appointment.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Successful completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- Minimum of 3 years of clinical laboratory experience.
- Advanced experience in troubleshooting complex laboratory instrumentation.
- Documented skill in medical informatics and laboratory data management.
- Demonstrated ability to train and mentor laboratory students or junior staff.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans.
- ✓Traditional federal pension with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401k (Thrift Savings Plan) with 5% matching.
- ✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave plus 13 days of sick leave.
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays per year.
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible full-time employees.
💡 How to Apply Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers website.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, professional certifications, and transcripts.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on September 30, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific: Use the standard VA resume format to ensure your experience is properly captured.
- Proofread: Errors or missing documentation may result in exclusion from the selection process.
- Check Status: Use your USAJOBS dashboard to monitor your application progress.
- Quantify your work: Highlight specific instrumentation or diagnostic methods you have mastered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite clinical position located at the Columbia VA Medical Center.
What is the work schedule?
The role involves an evening shift (4:00 PM – 12:00 AM) with mandatory rotating weekends and holidays.
Is there a relocation incentive?
No, relocation assistance (Permanent Change of Station) is not authorized for this position.
What is the shift for this role?
The position requires a 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM shift, including weekends and holidays.
How long does this job posting remain open?
This is an open continuous announcement closing on September 30, 2026.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We pride ourselves on providing comprehensive, whole-health care to our Veterans. By joining the Columbia VA Health Care System, you become part of an innovative network serving a 36-county area, dedicated to medical research, education, and clinical excellence.