Clinical Laboratory Scientist: Career Opportunity at the Robley Rex VA Medical Center
Are you a dedicated clinical laboratory professional looking for an opportunity to serve those who served our country? The Robley Rex VA Medical Center in Louisville, Kentucky, is seeking a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Generalist) to join their Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service. This intermittent, fee-basis role is ideal for skilled professionals seeking to contribute to an integrated, academic-affiliated healthcare system.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, you will be responsible for a broad range of laboratory procedures. Key duties include:
- Performing advanced, complex laboratory testing.
- Evaluating biological specimens and maintaining the integrity of samples.
- Troubleshooting and maintaining laboratory instrumentation.
- Implementing quality control and quality assurance protocols.
- Correlating patient data with lab results for accurate reporting.
- Adhering to strict safety regulations, including CAP and OSHA standards.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, candidates must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
- Possess a valid Generalist certification (MLS or MT) from ASCP or AMT.
- Be proficient in spoken and written English.
- Complete all pre-employment onboarding requirements, including background checks.
Salary Overview
This position is compensated on a fee-basis. Unlike traditional salaried roles, you are paid for authorized services performed. This provides flexibility but does not guarantee a fixed annual income.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Level | Experience/Education Required |
|---|---|
| GS-07 | Basic requirements (no additional experience) |
| GS-09 | 1 year experience or Master's degree |
| GS-11 | 1 year experience or PhD/3 years graduate school |
Benefits
Employees at the VA enjoy the satisfaction of supporting the Veteran community. While fee-basis positions have unique structures, you will gain experience in a high-volume, diverse, and advanced clinical setting that is highly regarded in the medical field.
Application Tips
- Your resume is the primary document used to determine your qualifications. Ensure every entry is detailed with hours worked per week and specific achievements.
- Clearly document your certification status and educational background.
- Ensure all SF-50 forms are included if you are a current or former federal employee.
If you are a clinical professional who values quality, accuracy, and serving the Veteran population, the Robley Rex VA Medical Center is the place for you. Submit your application through the official portal to begin the process.
Why This Clinical Lab Scientist (Intermittent Fee Basis) Job Matters
Join the Robley Rex VA Medical Center team as an intermittent Clinical Laboratory Scientist and provide vital diagnostic support to our nation's Veterans.
Clinical Lab Scientist (Intermittent Fee Basis) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly skilled Clinical Laboratory Scientist for an intermittent, fee-basis position in Louisville, Kentucky. Working within the Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service at the Robley Rex VA Medical Center, you will perform essential diagnostic testing to support patient care in a fast-paced, high-quality clinical environment. This position offers professional growth within a tertiary care facility that integrates teaching, research, and advanced medicine.
Requirements for Clinical Lab Scientist (Intermittent Fee Basis)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution
- Current Generalist certification (MLS or MT) through ASCP BOC or AMT
- Background/security investigation clearance
- Completion of online onboarding process
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Acceptable form of identification for I-9 verification
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Lab Scientist (Intermittent Fee Basis)
- Prior experience in a clinical laboratory setting
- Proficiency in laboratory information systems and informatics
- Strong ability to perform, calibrate, and troubleshoot complex lab instrumentation
- Capacity to maintain accurate records and ensure quality control standards
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Professional development within an academic medical center
- ✓Contribution to a mission-driven federal agency
- ✓Exposure to state-of-the-art laboratory technology
- ✓Flexible, intermittent work schedule
- ✓Opportunity to work in a collaborative, team-based clinical environment
💡 How to Apply Clinical Lab Scientist (Intermittent Fee Basis) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Lab Scientist (Intermittent Fee Basis) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement requirements.
- Prepare your long-form resume, including all required employment details and dates.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including certifications, transcripts, and relevant SF-50s.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes the number of hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Be specific in your experience descriptions; do not assume the recruiter understands your daily tasks.
- Double-check that your certification documentation clearly matches the required ASCP or AMT standards.
- Submit your application well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Fee Basis' mean for this position?
Fee Basis is an intermittent employment status. You are compensated for approved services rendered rather than receiving a fixed annual salary, and there is no guarantee of a minimum number of assignments.
Can I apply if I am not yet certified?
Yes, under specific conditions. You may be hired as a temporary employee while working toward your certification, provided you meet the eligibility requirements for the examination. Failure to obtain certification within the allotted timeframe may lead to separation.
Is this a remote or virtual position?
No, this is not a virtual position. You will be required to work on-site at the Robley Rex VA Medical Center in Louisville, Kentucky.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to our nation's Veterans. The Robley Rex VAMC serves as a tertiary care facility, offering a wide spectrum of health services to Veterans across Kentucky and Southern Indiana. By integrating research, education, and clinical practice, the facility provides an engaging environment for medical professionals.