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The Microbiology Technologist performs complex laboratory functions with focus on pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytic processes of microbiology testing. The technologist has professional oversight responsibilities for a specific large scale automated analytical instrument or test system; large area of laboratory functions, such as employee competency records, supply functions, quality control review, new method development, employee /student training; and provide professional advice.
This job is open to
Clarification from the agency
All US Citizens
Videos
Duties
Major duties include, but are not limited to the following:
Advanced Staff Medical Technologist, Microbiology. The incumbent will focus on Microbiology pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytic processes for the Clinical Laboratory at the Sacramento Medical Center:
- Assists the Microbiology Supervisor with new employee training, annual competency,- Reviews records for errors and takes corrective actions as needed.
- Assists the Microbiology Supervisor in writing and maintaining procedures, provides advice on work methods, practices and procedures.
- Stays current in all CAP, CLIA and Joint Commission regulatory requirements.
- Reviews CLSI documents and makes recommendations for changes according to the current guidelines.
- Participates in preparation for inspections by reviewing checklist compliance, makes recommendations for improvements, CAP Interim self-inspection, coordination of inspection preparation and assisting with inspection day activities.
- Participates in the review and submission of inspection responses.
- Reviews test results for errors and unusual test results. Determines what action is needed for follow up.
- Performs quality control testing, reviews results, and takes corrective action for results that are out of control.
- Employee will be responsible for a specific analytical instrument or test system. Attends vendor training as needed and is responsible for employee training, system trouble shooting, monitoring instrument reagents and supplies, reviewing equipment logs and assuring that proper maintenance is being done.
- Performs complex maintenance procedures and is consulted as the expert for trouble shooting problems on the instrument. Stays up-to-date on identification and susceptibility procedures for emerging pathogens and bioterrorism agents.
- Assist in the startup and implementation of new test systems.
- Assists in submission of proficiency testing (PT), review of PT results and assists in the investigation and documentation for PT deficiencies.
- Participates in Service process improvement projects and monitors outcomes and follow-on audits.
- Assists medical staff with questions regarding microbiology orders and test results.
Medical Technologist: vacareers.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/Total-Rewards-of-a-Medical-Technologist-Career-Flyer.pdf
Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM with weekends and holidays as assigned.
EDRP Authorized: Contact susan.bringel@va.gov , the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more
Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases When setting pay, a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of existing pay, higher or unique qualifications, or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade).
Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year)Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior [work experience] or military service experience.
Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child.
Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66
Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA.
Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement)
Telework: Not available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
Qualifications
Basic Requirements:
Grade Determinations:
GS-10 Advance Staff Medical Technologist
MTs at this level perform more complex laboratory functions. Duties may include specific targeted laboratory responsibilities or projects such as laboratory safety officer, analyzer specialist, or quality control file maintenance. Duties may include, but are not limited to, any of the following: serves as primary operator on new test systems, assumes responsibility to maintain operations including preventive maintenance and training of technicians and technologists on the operation of the new test systems; assists in writing procedures and other documents as directed; oversight of the clinical training experiences of technical and professional level technologist or technician training programs in order to fulfill educational and professional requirements (where training programs exist); provides technical training and guidance to students, residents, staff and other employees; recommends updated guidelines and policies in compliance with regulatory requirements for non-routine or complex assignments; coordinates the laboratory competency program; and coordinates the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) laboratory proficiency/survey program.
Experience. Must have 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, which is directly related to the position to be filled. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities. In addition to the experience/education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1. Comprehensive knowledge of and skill in applying a wide range of concepts, principles and methodology of the field to perform advanced techniques.
2. Ability to modify or adapt established methods, procedures or techniques to resolve difficult or complex problems.
3. Knowledge of the application of laboratory regulatory requirements.
4. Ability to provide or coordinate staff development and training.
References: VA HANDBOOK 5005/46, PART II, APPENDIX G24
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-10.
Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
Additional information
Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program. You must meet specific individual eligibility requirements in accordance with VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment. Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) and eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after complete review of the EDRP application.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
The Microbiology Technologist performs complex laboratory functions with focus on pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytic processes of microbiology testing. The technologist has professional oversight responsibilities for a specific large scale automated analytical instrument or test system; large area of laboratory functions, such as employee competency records, supply functions, quality control review, new method development, employee /student training; and provide professional advice.
This job is open to
- The public
U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.
Clarification from the agency
All US Citizens
Videos
Duties
Major duties include, but are not limited to the following:
Advanced Staff Medical Technologist, Microbiology. The incumbent will focus on Microbiology pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytic processes for the Clinical Laboratory at the Sacramento Medical Center:
- Assists the Microbiology Supervisor with new employee training, annual competency,- Reviews records for errors and takes corrective actions as needed.
- Assists the Microbiology Supervisor in writing and maintaining procedures, provides advice on work methods, practices and procedures.
- Stays current in all CAP, CLIA and Joint Commission regulatory requirements.
- Reviews CLSI documents and makes recommendations for changes according to the current guidelines.
- Participates in preparation for inspections by reviewing checklist compliance, makes recommendations for improvements, CAP Interim self-inspection, coordination of inspection preparation and assisting with inspection day activities.
- Participates in the review and submission of inspection responses.
- Reviews test results for errors and unusual test results. Determines what action is needed for follow up.
- Performs quality control testing, reviews results, and takes corrective action for results that are out of control.
- Employee will be responsible for a specific analytical instrument or test system. Attends vendor training as needed and is responsible for employee training, system trouble shooting, monitoring instrument reagents and supplies, reviewing equipment logs and assuring that proper maintenance is being done.
- Performs complex maintenance procedures and is consulted as the expert for trouble shooting problems on the instrument. Stays up-to-date on identification and susceptibility procedures for emerging pathogens and bioterrorism agents.
- Assist in the startup and implementation of new test systems.
- Assists in submission of proficiency testing (PT), review of PT results and assists in the investigation and documentation for PT deficiencies.
- Participates in Service process improvement projects and monitors outcomes and follow-on audits.
- Assists medical staff with questions regarding microbiology orders and test results.
Medical Technologist: vacareers.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/Total-Rewards-of-a-Medical-Technologist-Career-Flyer.pdf
Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM with weekends and holidays as assigned.
EDRP Authorized: Contact susan.bringel@va.gov , the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more
Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases When setting pay, a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of existing pay, higher or unique qualifications, or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade).
Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year)Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior [work experience] or military service experience.
Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child.
Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66
Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA.
Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement)
Telework: Not available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
- All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
- Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- You may be required to serve a probationary period.
- Subject to background/security investigation.
- Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
Qualifications
Basic Requirements:
- United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
- English Language Proficiency: Dental assistants must be proficient in spoken and written English.
- Education and/or Experience:
- (1) A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university in medical laboratory science, medical technology, clinical laboratory science or in a related science (e.g., laboratory sciences such as chemistry, biochemistry, biology, microbiology, immunology, etc.). AND
- Completion of a medical technology clinical practice program. Clinical practice programs completed after 1974 must have been accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP, formerly CAHEA), or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). The professional curriculum may have consisted of a post-baccalaureate certificate program or be integrated into a four year program of study that culminated in a baccalaureate degree. OR,
- (2) A bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university, including 16 semester hours of biological science (with one course in microbiology), 16 semester hours of chemistry (with one course in organic or biochemistry) and one course in mathematics, AND
- Two years of post-certification clinical laboratory experience (e.g., blood banking, chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology, clinical microscopy, etc.) within the last ten years as a certified Medical Laboratory Technician by the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP-BOC), American Society of Clinical Pathology Board of Registry (ASCP-BOR) or American Medical Technologists (AMT). This experience must include performing moderate and/or high complexity testing in blood banking, chemistry, hematology, microbiology immunology and clinical microscopy (or categorical experience which matches categorical certification) in a clinical laboratory. OR,
- (3) A bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university, including 16 semester hours of biological science (with one course in microbiology), 16 semester hours of chemistry (with one course in organic or biochemistry) and one course in mathematics, AND
- Five years of clinical laboratory experience within the last ten years performing moderate and/or high complexity testing in blood banking, chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology and clinical microscopy (or categorical experience which matches categorical certification) in a clinical laboratory.
- Certification: Candidates must have either (1) or (2) below:
- (1) Candidates must currently possess the appropriate certification as a MT, MLS, or CLS given by the ASCP-BOC, ASCP-BOR, or AMT.
- (2) For positions up to the full performance level, candidates must currently possess the categorical or specialist technologist level certification from the certification agencies listed above, such as, but not limited to, chemistry (C/SC), hematology (H/SH), microbiology (M/SM), molecular biology (MB/SMB) and blood bank (BB/SBB). Technologists with categorical or specialist certifications may only perform duties within the area of the laboratory specific to their categorical certification (e. g., an individual with a chemistry (C) certification can only perform duties in chemistry).
- May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
Grade Determinations:
GS-10 Advance Staff Medical Technologist
MTs at this level perform more complex laboratory functions. Duties may include specific targeted laboratory responsibilities or projects such as laboratory safety officer, analyzer specialist, or quality control file maintenance. Duties may include, but are not limited to, any of the following: serves as primary operator on new test systems, assumes responsibility to maintain operations including preventive maintenance and training of technicians and technologists on the operation of the new test systems; assists in writing procedures and other documents as directed; oversight of the clinical training experiences of technical and professional level technologist or technician training programs in order to fulfill educational and professional requirements (where training programs exist); provides technical training and guidance to students, residents, staff and other employees; recommends updated guidelines and policies in compliance with regulatory requirements for non-routine or complex assignments; coordinates the laboratory competency program; and coordinates the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) laboratory proficiency/survey program.
Experience. Must have 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, which is directly related to the position to be filled. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities. In addition to the experience/education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1. Comprehensive knowledge of and skill in applying a wide range of concepts, principles and methodology of the field to perform advanced techniques.
2. Ability to modify or adapt established methods, procedures or techniques to resolve difficult or complex problems.
3. Knowledge of the application of laboratory regulatory requirements.
4. Ability to provide or coordinate staff development and training.
References: VA HANDBOOK 5005/46, PART II, APPENDIX G24
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-10.
Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
Additional information
Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program. You must meet specific individual eligibility requirements in accordance with VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment. Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) and eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after complete review of the EDRP application.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
- Benefits
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Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
