Become a Clinical Laboratory Scientist at the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth
Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for clinical diagnostics? The Department of Defense is currently seeking a motivated Clinical Laboratory Scientist to support the mission of the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. This position is essential to maintaining the high standards of care provided to our service members, retirees, and their families.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, you will handle the day-to-day operations of the laboratory, ensuring that clinical diagnostic testing is accurate and timely. Your duties will include:
- Performing, evaluating, and monitoring routine and specialized lab tests.
- Preparing reagents, controls, and standards for testing protocols.
- Reviewing patient data and identifying discrepant results for follow-up.
- Maintaining and verifying the operation of complex lab instrumentation.
- Collaborating with clinicians to ensure rapid reporting of findings.
- Training new staff and drafting essential standard operating procedures.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in a related science from an accredited college or university.
- Certification: Active certification as a Medical Technologist (MT) or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) via ASCP or AMT.
- Experience: One year of professional clinical laboratory experience.
- Background: U.S. citizenship is mandatory. You must be eligible for a Secret security clearance and complete a drug test.
Comparison of Qualification Paths
| Path | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| A (Standard) | BS in Lab Science (NAACLS accredited) | Entry level |
| B (Degree Based) | BS with 1-year clinical training | Entry level |
| C (Experience Based) | BS with 16 sem. hrs Bio/Chem + Math | 5 years full-time clinical |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $62,640 to $81,436, depending on qualifications and locality pay adjustments.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Substantial leave accrual and paid federal holidays.
Application Tips
- Tailor your resume: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
- Documentation is key: Always attach your transcripts and professional certification; missing documents will lead to disqualification.
- Be specific: Detail your experience in hematology, chemistry, microbiology, and blood banking clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the application deadline? A: The closing date for this announcement is October 1, 2026.
Q: Can I telework in this role? A: This position is not eligible for telework due to the onsite nature of laboratory diagnostics.
If you are ready to advance your career while supporting those who serve our country, this is your opportunity. Review the requirements carefully, prepare your documentation, and submit your application via the official USAJOBS portal before the October deadline.
Why This Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Matters
Join the front lines of military medicine! Apply your expertise as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist at the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia, and support the health and readiness of our nation's service members.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a skilled and dedicated Clinical Laboratory Scientist to join the core laboratory team at the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. This role is vital to our mission, ensuring the accurate and timely diagnostic testing necessary for high-quality patient care. You will work within a dynamic, clinical environment where your precision and expertise directly impact the health outcomes of uniformed service members, retirees, and their families.
Requirements for Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant biological or chemical science from an accredited institution
- Successful completion of an accredited Medical Laboratory Scientist/Clinical Laboratory Scientist program
- One year of specialized clinical laboratory experience including diagnostic testing and instrumentation operation
- Current certification as a Medical Technologist (MT) or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) from ASCP, AMT, or a comparable board
- Ability to pass a Secret security clearance and drug screening
- Compliance with Selective Service registration for male applicants born after 1959
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Laboratory Scientist
- Experience in high-volume hospital or clinical laboratory settings
- Proficiency in laboratory information systems and data reporting
- Strong analytical skills regarding unusual or discrepant test values
- Ability to lead training for new staff and contribute to standard operating procedure development
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Generous federal retirement and pension plans
- ✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the Department of Defense
💡 How to Apply Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job
- Ensure your resume is two pages or less.
- Log into your USAJOBS account to complete the online questionnaire.
- Upload required transcripts and your active professional certification (ASCP/AMT).
- Ensure your work history includes hours per week, job title, and specific start/end dates.
- Submit your complete application package by the closing date of October 1, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages; longer resumes will not be considered.
- Use clear, plain language; avoid complex technical acronyms.
- Make sure your resume clearly links your work history to the required specialized experience.
- Double-check that your certification document is uploaded and clearly legible.
- Submit early to account for potential document processing or virus scanning delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary requirement for this position?
You must hold a Bachelor's degree from an accredited program and current certification (ASCP, AMT, or equivalent) as a Medical Technologist or Medical Laboratory Scientist.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance and is classified as noncritical-sensitive, requiring a background investigation.
Can I substitute education for experience?
Yes, a combination of graduate education and professional experience may satisfy the qualification requirements, provided the total combined percentage reaches 100%.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is an integrated healthcare system delivering medical, dental, and pharmacy services across the Department of Defense. Partnering with the Joint Force, the DHA ensures that over 9.5 million beneficiaries receive world-class care anytime and anywhere. Joining this team means contributing to a mission that values readiness, precision, and excellence.