Advance Your Career as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist at the Alexandria VA
Are you a laboratory professional looking to transition into a leadership role that blends clinical expertise with advanced information technology? The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Clinical Laboratory Scientist to serve as the Laboratory Information Manager (LIM) for the Alexandria VA Health Care System. This unique position allows you to serve those who have served our country while managing the complex data systems that power modern diagnostics.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will function as the primary expert for the laboratory's information systems. Your responsibilities include:
- System Maintenance: Managing coding and mapping for laboratory tests, billing, and reporting workflows.
- Technical Leadership: Serving as an expert liaison between the lab and IT departments, overseeing instrument interfaces and middleware.
- Process Improvement: Designing decision-support algorithms to streamline testing and ensuring compliance with VHA directives.
- Training: Mentoring staff and students on clinical laboratory software usage.
Comparison: Standard CLS vs. Laboratory Information Manager
| Feature | Standard CLS | Laboratory Information Manager (This Role) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Focus | Specimen Analysis | Data/System Workflow Integrity |
| Primary User | Patient Samples | Software & Hardware Integration |
| Regulatory Scope | Lab Standard Compliance | IT/Accreditation Compliance |
| Interaction | Clinical Staff | IT, National Developers, & Clinicians |
Requirements
Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree and the appropriate Generalist certification (ASCP or AMT). As this is a federal position, you must be a U.S. citizen, pass a background investigation, and fulfill the mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination requirement. Detailed documentation, including a comprehensive resume and transcripts, is essential for a successful application.
Salary and Benefits
This GS-12 position offers a competitive salary range of $91,756 to $119,285 per year. Beyond the salary, the VA provides a world-class federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- A robust retirement plan including 401(k) matching.
- Generous paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays).
- Paid parental leave.
If you possess the technical acumen and the desire to support Veterans through innovative laboratory management, this position at the Alexandria VA Health Care System offers a path to professional growth and personal fulfillment. Apply today to secure your future in public service.
Why This Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Laboratory Information Manager) Job Matters
Transform the future of veterans' healthcare by bridging clinical excellence and advanced information systems at the Alexandria VA Health Care System.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Laboratory Information Manager) Job Overview
The Alexandria VA Health Care System is seeking a highly skilled Clinical Laboratory Scientist to serve as the Laboratory Information Manager (LIM) and Automated Data Processing Application Coordinator (ADPAC). In this pivotal role, you will bridge the gap between laboratory operations and information technology, ensuring that clinical workflows are efficient, data-accurate, and compliant with national standards at a facility processing over 1.3 million tests annually.
Requirements for Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Laboratory Information Manager)
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed under specific conditions).
- Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution.
- Generalist certification as an MLS or MT from ASCP/AMT, or relevant categorical/specialist certification.
- 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Completion of a background/security investigation.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Laboratory Information Manager)
- Experience in implementing and maintaining LIS (Laboratory Information Systems).
- Expertise in creating and maintaining Instrument-Manager-based decision support algorithms.
- Strong technical background in middleware, instrument interfaces, and software patching.
- Proven track record in regulatory compliance and preparation for laboratory inspections.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases.
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off (Annual, Sick, and Federal Holidays).
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months.
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible employees.
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting.
- ✓Federal 401K (TSP) with agency matching contributions up to 5%.
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and long-term care insurance options.
💡 How to Apply Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Laboratory Information Manager) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Laboratory Information Manager) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement requirements.
- Prepare your long-form resume, transcripts, and relevant professional certifications.
- Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, including your most recent SF-50 if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the deadline on November 3, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume lists specific duties, start/end dates, and average hours worked per week.
- Be precise in your questionnaire responses; do not omit details that prove your qualifications.
- Check your application status regularly through the USAJOBS dashboard.
- Verify that your educational documents meet the accreditation standards listed in the posting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site position at the Alexandria VA Health Care System in Louisiana.
What is the commitment regarding influenza vaccination?
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a mandatory condition of employment for all VHA health care personnel.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Alexandria VA Health Care System, located in the heart of Louisiana, serves as a pillar of support for Veterans. As a facility processing over 1.3 million tests annually, the laboratory team plays a critical role in patient care, ensuring that diagnostic results are accurate, timely, and integrated into the national VA health network. You will be joining a team committed to "Whole Health" and clinical excellence.