Launch Your Career as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist with the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a premier employer for healthcare professionals committed to excellence. The Black Hills VA Health Care System is currently accepting applications for a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) to join our team in the heart of South Dakota. If you are passionate about diagnostic precision and improving patient outcomes, this role offers a fulfilling career path in a scenic, supportive environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a generalist CLS, you will be responsible for a wide range of laboratory activities:
- Specimen Handling: Evaluating, preparing, and analyzing patient specimens across various disciplines.
- Technical Analysis: Performing tests in chemistry, hematology, coagulation, urinalysis, immunohematology, and microbiology.
- Quality Assurance: Maintaining laboratory instruments, performing calibrations, and ensuring rigorous quality control standards.
- Collaboration: Working closely with healthcare providers to correlate lab results with patient history and clinical data.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
- Hold a valid generalist certification as an MLS or MT from ASCP BOC or AMT.
- Be proficient in English and pass federal background and health screening requirements.
Grade Comparison Table
| Grade Level | Requirements | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-07 | Basic Requirements | Entry-level proficiency |
| GS-09 | 1 Year Experience or Master's Degree | Advanced technical application |
| GS-11 | 1 Year Experience or PhD | Leadership and complex troubleshooting |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $57,753 to $111,120, depending on grade level, qualifications, and experience. Federal employees also benefit from regular salary increases and cost-of-living adjustments.
Benefits
- EDRP: Eligible for up to $200,000 in student loan repayment.
- Leave: 37-50 days of combined annual, sick, and holiday leave per year.
- Insurance: Full selection of federal health, dental, and life insurance plans.
- Retirement: Traditional pension system plus 401k-style TSP contributions.
Application Tips
- Resume Template: Ensure you use the specific VA clinical resume template to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Documentation: Have your transcripts and certifications ready to upload as a complete package.
- Clarification: Be specific when describing your lab experience—don't leave room for hiring managers to guess your competencies.
Serving the Veterans of the Black Hills is both a professional honor and a rewarding personal experience. With competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and a path for career growth, this position is ideal for a dedicated scientist. Apply today to help us continue our mission of high-quality, whole-health care.
Why This Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Matters
Join the Black Hills VA Health Care System and make a lasting impact on the lives of our nation's Veterans while enjoying the scenic beauty and high quality of life in South Dakota.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Overview
The Black Hills VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Clinical Laboratory Scientist to join our team in Hot Springs, South Dakota. This position plays a critical role in providing comprehensive laboratory services to Veterans, performing complex testing across various disciplines including chemistry, microbiology, and immunohematology. As a member of our healthcare team, you will contribute to our mission of delivering exceptional, whole-health care.
Requirements for Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree or higher in a related field
- Generalist certification as an MLS or MT via ASCP BOC or AMT
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening and background investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- Experience in laboratory quality control and assurance
- Ability to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair complex clinical instrumentation
- Strong communication skills for interacting with interdisciplinary healthcare teams
- Informatics skills and familiarity with laboratory data flow
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off annually
- ✓Paid parental leave
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Federal 401k plan with employer matching
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible employees
- ✓Opportunities for professional development
💡 How to Apply Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job
- Log in or create an account at USAJOBS
- Review the full vacancy announcement details
- Prepare your resume using the required standard VA clinical template
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts and professional certifications
- Complete the online questionnaire
- Submit your application package before the deadline
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific VA resume template provided to ensure your application meets formatting standards.
- Clearly articulate your technical experience and how it aligns with the KSA requirements listed.
- Submit all required documentation early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Highlight volunteer or specialized experience that demonstrates your laboratory competency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
No, relocation incentives or permanent change of station (PCS) assistance are not authorized for this role.
Can non-certified individuals apply?
Yes, under specific circumstances, non-certified applicants may be hired if they meet the eligibility criteria to pursue certification within a set timeframe, though they will be subject to specific supervision and appointment limitations.
What is the work schedule?
The schedule is Monday through Friday, from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
Is this position eligible for relocation?
No, relocation benefits are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
What is the trial period?
All new hires are subject to a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Black Hills VA Health Care System (VA BHHCS) provides comprehensive medical, surgical, and behavioral health services across multiple campuses. We are part of the larger VISN 23 network, dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military. Our staff enjoys working in one of the most beautiful regions of the country, offering endless outdoor recreation from hiking and skiing to fishing.