This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program. You must meet specific eligibility requirements per VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment. Program Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) & eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after review of the EDRP application. Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply.
Duties include but not limited to:
Incumbent reports to technical supervisor or Pathologist. Evaluates and solves problems related to collection and processing of biological specimens for analysis considering physiologic processes and requirements. Accepts and/or documents incoming patient specimens using the designated computer system (or backup system) as per established policies and procedures.
Controls physical conditions and responds to time factors to ensure that the physiological state of the specimen and the quality of patient care is maintained. Reports all specimen problems according to established guidelines. Verifies accuracy, completeness and validity in the testing process. Logs rejected specimens according to laboratory/departmental policy and delete accessions according to laboratory policy. Adheres to requirements to accomplish plans to assure successful accreditation by regulatory agencies such as Joint Commission, CAP, CUA, FDA, American Association of Blood Banks and other governing bodies.
In microbiology, specializes in performing gram stains, infectious disease testing, immunochemical fecal occult blood testing, vaginosis DNA testing, and complex PCR testing. Performs a variety of diagnostic tests and makes macroscopic examinations of cultures of numerous species of bacteria for the purpose of positive identification when performing pharmacy aseptic technique assessments.
In hematology, performs complex testing such as coagulation studies including prothrombin testing, activated partial thromboplastin testing, fibrinogen testing, and D-Dimer testing. Performs body fluid crystal analysis and microscopic urinalysis reviews. n chemistry (typically in the specialized chemistry unit of the section), performs blood gas testing.
Maintains and documents the optimal functioning of laboratory equipment. Maintains laboratory in a clean and safe condition according to agency and accreditation requirements. Troubleshoots and repairs instrumentation. Recognizes indicators of malfunction and evaluates validity of data.
While performing a full range of biochemical tests, must have an extensive knowledge of instrumentation to install, calibrate, troubleshoot and resolve problems. Calibrates at timely and/or established intervals to minimize break downs and delay of procedures. Performs and monitors quality control. When controls fall outside acceptable limits, employee uses independent judgment, in conjunction with standard operating procedures, to evaluate the validity of data in relation to the test system and assay procedures, correlating and integrating information and perform additional testing to confirm abnormal results. Monitors specimens and the environment for acceptability.
Helps to maintain an effective liaison with biomedical engineering personnel from Healthcare Technology Management and/or manufacturer's technical service representatives to help assure optimal uninterrupted services. Ensures that sufficient supply of reagents, standards and controls are available at all times to assure that the inventory is adequate for uninterrupted functioning of all instruments. Is responsible for preparation of reagents, controls. etc. as required. Recommends changes in procedure to improve efficiency, accuracy and safety. Conducts all work according to laboratory safety regulations. Assists in training employees in laboratory procedures and laboratory safety. Accountable to technical supervisor or Pathologist to report conditions and progress on eliminating discrepancies.
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm
Compressed/Flexible:Not Available
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 534-555009F
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive.Contact VHA.ELRSProgramSupport@va.gov, the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Starting at $49,025 Per Year (GS 7)