Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist: A Career of Impact at the San Diego VA

Are you a seasoned clinical laboratory professional looking to take the next step in your leadership career? The San Diego VA Health Care System is currently accepting applications for a Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist (GS-12). This position offers a unique blend of technical diagnostic work, team mentorship, and the profound honor of serving those who have served our country.

Job Responsibilities

As a Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist, you are the backbone of diagnostic precision. Your primary responsibilities include:

Leadership & Coordination: Managing daily workflows, distributing assignments, and coaching laboratory staff to meet performance standards.
Technical Oversight: Serving as the subject matter expert for laboratory instrumentation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Quality Assurance: Performing statistical analysis on QC/QA monitors and ensuring compliance with regulatory bodies like CAP, FDA, and the Joint Commission.
Professional Development: Coordinating training, evaluating competency, and identifying continuing education needs for your team.
Clinical Liaison: Acting as a primary technical resource for physicians, nurses, and clinical staff regarding specimen requirements and testing methodology.

Comparison of Benefits

Benefit Feature	Federal VA Benefits	Typical Private Sector
Retirement	Pension + 401k Match	401k only
Leave Accrual	Up to 50 days (Vacation + Sick + Holiday)	Varies significantly
Student Loans	EDRP (Up to $200,000)	Rare
Job Security	Highly Stable	Market Dependent

Requirements

To qualify for this GS-12 position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Education: A bachelor's degree or higher in a clinical laboratory science field.
Certification: Active Generalist certification (MLS/MT) or relevant Specialist certification via ASCP or AMT.
Experience: One year of professional experience equivalent to the GS-11 level.
Skills: Demonstrated ability to manage laboratory procedures, troubleshoot instrumentation, and provide technical direction to clinical staff.

Salary and Financial Overview

The salary range for this position is $135,340 to $175,945 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additionally, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can help alleviate student loan burdens, allowing you to focus on your professional growth without the stress of educational debt.

Why Join the VA?

Working at the San Diego VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence. You will benefit from an environment that prioritizes your development, offers unparalleled job stability, and provides a comprehensive suite of benefits, including extensive paid time off, federal health insurance, and robust retirement planning.

If you are ready to lead, innovate, and serve, the San Diego VA wants to hear from you. Applications must be submitted by September 18, 2026. Do not miss this opportunity to influence the quality of care provided to our Veterans while advancing your own professional trajectory.

Why This Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Matters

Lead the future of clinical excellence at the San Diego VA. Advance your career as a Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist, where your expertise directly improves the lives of those who served our nation.

Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Overview

The San Diego VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated and experienced Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist (GS-12) to join our mission-driven laboratory team. In this pivotal role, you will oversee daily laboratory operations, guide technical staff, and ensure the highest standards of diagnostic accuracy. You will serve as a key technical authority, troubleshooting complex instrumentation, implementing quality control protocols, and collaborating with clinical staff to deliver exceptional whole-health care to our Veterans.

Requirements for Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant field.
Must hold valid Generalist (MLS/MT) or Specialist/Categorical certification by ASCP or AMT.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or equivalent).
Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Ability to complete a 1 or 2-year trial period.
Completion of seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Experience in Core Laboratory (Chemistry, Urinalysis, Coagulation).
Proficiency in Hematology, Blood Bank, and Microbiology.
Prior experience in laboratory leadership, training, or staff development.
Demonstrated ability to manage complex technical troubleshooting for laboratory equipment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases.
✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
✓Federal pension plan and 401k with up to 5% employer matching.
✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for student loans).
✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees.

💡 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.
Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
Prepare your resume using the standard Clinical Resume document template provided by the VA.
Upload all required supporting documents, including certifications and transcripts.
Submit your complete application package before 11:59 PM ET on September 18, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your clinical experience.
Ensure you upload the specific Clinical Resume template provided, even if you also include a detailed CV.
Verify that your certification is active and clearly documented in your application package.
Check the status of your application through your USAJOBS dashboard after submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?

Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which may provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for qualifying candidates.

What is the schedule for this role?

This position operates on a Monday – Friday schedule, from 2:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. PST, and includes a requirement for rotating holidays and weekends.

Do I need a specific certification?

Yes, you must have a Generalist certification (MLS or MT) from ASCP or AMT, or specific categorical/specialist certification applicable to the assignment.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We are dedicated to providing "Whole Health" care that empowers Veterans to take charge of their well-being. By joining the San Diego VA team, you are becoming part of a community that prioritizes healing relationships, environmental excellence, and comprehensive medical support for our nation’s heroes.