Lead Excellence: Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Quality Manager) Opportunity

Are you a dedicated laboratory professional looking to transition into a leadership role that directly impacts patient outcomes? The Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System is seeking a highly skilled Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Quality Manager) to join our team in New Orleans. This position is designed for leaders who are passionate about quality standards, compliance, and driving continuous improvement in a clinical environment.

Job Responsibilities

As the Quality Manager, your role goes beyond standard laboratory testing. You will be the architect of our lab’s quality management framework. Key duties include:

Developing and monitoring quality policies to ensure compliance with CAP, TJC, and CLIA standards.
Analyzing QA data using statistical methods to identify trends and process deficiencies.
Overseeing proficiency testing and document control.
Mentoring lab staff on best practices and safety procedures.
Acting as the Laboratory Safety Officer.

Requirements

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

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship required.
Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant clinical science field.
Certification: Current MLS or MT certification from ASCP or AMT.
Experience: At least 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.

Comparison: GS-12 Expectations vs. Standard Clinical Roles

Feature	Clinical Lab Scientist	Quality Manager (GS-12)
Primary Focus	Diagnostic Testing	Quality Oversight & Compliance
Key Skills	Technical Proficiency	Auditing, Data Analysis, Policy Dev
Leadership	Mentoring Students/Staff	Programmatic Strategy & Training

Salary Overview

This position offers a robust salary range of $113,525 to $147,585 per year. In addition to base pay, the VA offers regular salary increases and the potential for a higher step placement based on unique qualifications or agency needs.

Benefits

Education Debt: Eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Time Off: 13-26 days of annual leave and 13 sick days per year.
Retirement: Federal pension plus 401(k) (TSP) with 5% matching.
Insurance: Federal health, life, and long-term care plans.

Application Tips

Be Precise: When writing your resume, ensure you clearly state your duties for every job, including the average hours worked per week.
Documentation: Have your ASCP/AMT certifications and transcripts ready to upload immediately.
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience specifically related to quality management, corrective action plans, and regulatory surveys.

This role is an exceptional opportunity to utilize your laboratory expertise at a higher level. If you meet the criteria and are ready to serve our Veterans, we encourage you to apply by October 28, 2026.

Why This Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Quality Manager) Job Matters

Elevate your career in clinical laboratory management while making a lasting impact on the lives of those who served. Join the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System as a Quality Manager and lead excellence in laboratory diagnostics.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Quality Manager) Job Overview

The Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Clinical Laboratory Scientist to serve as a Quality Manager. In this pivotal role, you will oversee laboratory quality management programs, ensuring compliance with national accreditation and regulatory standards. You will leverage your technical expertise and leadership skills to drive process improvements, mentor staff, and ensure the highest standards of patient care for our nation's Veterans in the New Orleans area.

Requirements for Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Quality Manager)

U.S. Citizenship (unless specific waiver conditions are met).
Bachelor's degree or higher in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or related field.
Valid generalist certification as an MLS or MT (ASCP/AMT) OR categorical/specialist certification.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Must pass a pre-employment medical evaluation and drug screening.
Successful completion of a background/security investigation.
Must be able to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Quality Manager)

Extensive experience leading or managing laboratory quality assurance and improvement programs.
Proven record of ensuring compliance with CAP, TJC, and CLIA standards.
Strong proficiency in statistical data analysis and root cause identification.
Demonstrated ability to mentor staff and collaborate within multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
Experience in developing and implementing comprehensive quality management policies.

Federal Benefits & Perks

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

💡 How to Apply Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Quality Manager) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Quality Manager) Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare your resume detailing duties, dates, and hours worked per week.
Gather necessary documentation (Certifications, Transcripts, SF-50 if applicable).
Complete the occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
Submit your full application package before the closing date of 10/28/2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and hours worked to receive proper credit.
Do not leave gaps in your work history descriptions; be as detailed as possible regarding your technical and leadership tasks.
Verify your certifications are active and clearly listed in your application documents.
Check your USAJOBS account regularly for status updates.
Reach out to the EDRP coordinator if you have questions regarding loan repayment eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for remote work?

No, this is an onsite position located at the facility in New Orleans, Louisiana.

What is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP)?

It is a student loan reimbursement program for eligible employees. Award amounts can reach up to $200,000, determined by the VHA after appointment.

Are there mandatory vaccinations for this role?

Yes, annual seasonal influenza vaccination is a condition of employment for all VHA health care personnel unless an exemption is granted.

What is the trial period?

New employees are subject to a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.

Is there childcare support?

Yes, full-time employees may be eligible for a childcare subsidy.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) provides world-class care to those who have served our country. The Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System is a premier healthcare organization, delivering patient-centered services across 23 parishes. We foster a culture of integrity, excellence, and compassionate care, providing our employees with the resources they need to thrive both professionally and personally.