Launch Your Career as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist at the Oklahoma City VA

The Oklahoma City VA Health Care System is currently looking for a talented and dedicated Clinical Laboratory Scientist to support our mission of providing world-class care to our nation's Veterans. If you are passionate about clinical diagnostics, precision medicine, and working within a collaborative, fast-paced hospital environment, this position offers the perfect blend of professional challenge and personal growth.

Job Responsibilities

As a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Generalist), you will be a vital part of the healthcare team. Your responsibilities include:

Diagnostic Testing: Performing a full spectrum of laboratory procedures across multiple disciplines.
Problem Solving: Analyzing unexpected results and troubleshooting instrument malfunctions using scientific principles.
Quality Assurance: Maintaining and documenting quality control measures to ensure testing accuracy.
Collaboration: Acting as a subject matter expert for healthcare providers, offering interpretation of test methodology and specificity.
Instruction: Providing training and guidance to students and new laboratory employees.

Comparison of Grade Levels

GS Level	Education Requirements	Experience Required
GS-7	Bachelor's Degree	Entry Level (No experience required)
GS-9	Master's Degree or 2 years Grad Ed	1 year at GS-7 level equivalent
GS-11	PhD or 3 years Grad Ed	1 year at GS-9 level equivalent

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet several federal criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Language: Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Education: A bachelor's degree in medical technology or a related science.
Certification: ASCP or AMT generalist certification is mandatory.
Conditions of Employment: Background check, pre-employment drug screening, and annual influenza vaccination participation.

Salary Overview

The salary range for this position is $59,654 to $114,778 annually, commensurate with your experience and the assigned grade level. Federal employees also benefit from regular salary adjustments.

Benefits

The VA provides an industry-leading benefits package, including:

Paid Time Off: Accrue significant annual, sick, and federal holiday leave.
Retirement: Access to the federal pension system and a 401k-style Thrift Savings Plan with agency matching.
Insurance: Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and long-term care plans.
Family Support: Paid parental leave and available childcare subsidies.

Application Tips

Be Precise: Your resume must list exact dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every job.
Documentation: Ensure all transcripts, certifications, and SF-50s (if applicable) are uploaded before the closing date.
Follow Directions: Carefully read the USAJOBS vacancy requirements to avoid missing any steps that could disqualify your application.

Joining the Oklahoma City VA Health Care System means more than just a job; it is a commitment to service. If you are a dedicated professional looking to make a real difference in the lives of Veterans, we invite you to apply today.

Why This Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on Veteran health in Oklahoma City. Join our dedicated laboratory team, where your technical expertise directly supports patient-centered care in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job Overview

The Oklahoma City VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Generalist) to join our pathology and laboratory services. This role is essential for delivering high-quality, state-of-the-art diagnostic care to those who have served our nation. You will perform a variety of complex laboratory tests, analyze results, and maintain precision in a facility known for its research, teaching, and commitment to excellence. We offer a vibrant workplace culture, professional growth opportunities, and a healthy work-life balance in the heart of Oklahoma City.

Requirements for Clinical Laboratory Scientist

U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may be appointed only if no qualified citizens are available).
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Bachelor's degree or higher in Medical Technology or a related science from an accredited institution.
Active generalist certification as an MLS or MT by ASCP or AMT.
Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be able to perform physical tasks such as lifting up to 20 lbs and standing for extended periods.
Annual seasonal influenza vaccination required.

Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Laboratory Scientist

One year of professional experience as a Generalist Clinical Laboratory Scientist.
Demonstrated expertise in Hematology, Coagulation, Chemistry, Transfusion Medicine, and Microbiology.
Proficiency in molecular testing, gram stains, and complex laboratory instrumentation.
Experience working in a fast-paced, collaborative, team-based healthcare environment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓37-50 days of paid time off annually (vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays).
✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
✓Federal pension plan and 401k-style thrift savings plan with employer matching.
✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees.
✓Childcare subsidy program for qualifying families.
✓Professional development and continuing education opportunities.

💡 How to Apply Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Clinical Laboratory Scientist Job

Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
Prepare a comprehensive, long-form resume documenting your duties, series, grade, and hours worked.
Obtain copies of your academic transcripts and professional certifications.
Submit your application package, including all required supporting documents, via the online portal.
Complete the occupational questionnaire accurately.
Monitor your email for status updates and requests for potential interviews.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes specific start and end dates (month/year) for every position listed.
Clearly articulate how your skills meet the specific requirements of this GS-7 through GS-11 announcement.
Double-check that all professional certifications and transcripts are attached to your submission.
Review your application thoroughly before the closing date, as incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Address all KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) in your resume to demonstrate your qualifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the work schedule for this position?

The role involves overnight shifts, typically from 9:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. (10-hour shifts).

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an onsite position located at the Oklahoma City VA Health Care System.

Are certifications from foreign countries accepted?

Foreign education must be evaluated for equivalence to a U.S. program, or you must provide documentation of eligibility for U.S.-based certification exams.

What are the work hours?

This position requires working night shifts (9 p.m. to 7:30 a.m.).

Is relocation assistance available?

No, relocation assistance is not authorized for this specific vacancy.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military and their families. The Oklahoma City VA Health Care System is a premier 192-bed teaching hospital. We are at the forefront of clinical, administrative, and research excellence, serving over 81,000 Veterans. Our facility provides a supportive culture where clinicians can hone their skills and enjoy a vibrant urban lifestyle with year-round outdoor activities.