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Medical Technologist

  • Full-Time
  • Wilmington, DE
  • US Department Of Veterans Affairs
  • Posted 4 years ago – Accepting applications
Job Description
    DutiesSummary

    This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT and will remain open until February 16, 2021. Applications will be referred twice per week. This announcement will be used to fill multiple vacancies as they arise at the locations listed.

    Salary will be determined based on location selected.

    ResponsibilitiesThe duties and responsibilities of the Medical Technologist include, but are not limited to, the following:

    Performs technical procedures that include but are not limited to: automated chemistry panels, immunochemistry, complete blood counts, coagulation tests, urinalysis, body fluid analysis, peripheral smear evaluation, chromatography, toxicology, enzyme immunoassay, point-of-care testing and special studies.

    Evaluates requested procedures to determine the suitability of specimens for analysis, requesting new specimens if necessary. He/She will advise laboratory personnel or healthcare workers on the appropriate collection and handling of specimens.

    Calibrates, standardizes, adjusts, performs routine preventative maintenance and documents service on the instruments. He/She verifies correct instrument operation using established procedures and quality control checks (mechanical, optical, photometric, and electrometric).

    Performs daily quality control to assure that the reagents, equipment, and temperatures are within the recommended guidelines. He/She identifies quality control variations and initiates corrective action to correct the quality control problem. The Medical Technologist documents all quality control activities and maintains accurate records in compliance with accrediting agencies such as CAP, JCAHO, and CLIA.

    Screens test results to detect discrepancies, artifacts, and pathologic change that may warrant additional testing. He/She performs repeat or additional testing to clarify or confirm abnormal results as necessary.

    Assists in the training of Medical Technologist and Medical Technicians on the theoretical and practical aspects of test performance. This includes, but is not limited to, procedures, instrument function, quality control, expected results, quality management, and reporting of test results.

    Assists the Laboratory Information Manager (LIM) in the implementation of the laboratory modules of the medical center's automated data processing system. This involves identification of problems in new software packages when they are installed, analysis of these problems focusing upon their impact upon all laboratory data users throughout the medical center and coordinating efficient resolution of these problems. Works with the LIM in facilitating the interface of laboratory instrumentation with the LIS. This includes acting as an intermediary with the commercial software vendors (Dawning and Data Innovations) and IRM to ensure the accurate transmission of laboratory data between the instruments, interface hardware/software and the LIS.

    Assists the LIM in the development, maintenance and modification of various electronic information files such as:
    • An accurate, efficient, user-friendly results reporting system that assures accurate transmission of numerical and textual report information. The system contains and displays documented criteria for reporting (background information, test descriptions,
    acceptable reference ranges, patient results including template comments, automated electronic "alerts" for critically abnormal values, laboratory interim and cumulative reports and error detection protocols). The system affords transparent data exchange between VistA/LEDI/"HOST" and effectively adapts the LIS (VistA/HOST) package (s) to develop an efficient reporting system within the Medical Center and for distance reporting to and from other VA installations (e.g. LEDI) and commercial reference laboratories;
    • An accurate quality control database and user-friendly reporting system;
    • A master list of all available tests and their requirements (test files) including workload units and billing information based on CPT/LOINC codes;
    • A workload reporting system (including automated data reporting for the College of American Pathologists' Laboratory Management Index Program) with accurately representative file set up/links for data transfer to DSS (Decision Support System), PCE (Patient Care Encounters), KLF etc.;
    • "Separate" test results reporting, workload recording and billing files on VistA to document lab support provided for clinical research projects and specially funded programs (Liver and Kidney Transplant).

    The Medical Technologist is under the supervisory control of the daylight and/or evening/night shift Core Laboratory Supervisor. The Supervisor assigns work and provides only general assignments, deadlines and priorities, reviews work reports, and advises on how to proceed when unusual problems are encountered.

    The Medical Technologist meets the need of the customers while supporting VA missions. He/She consistently communicates and treats customers (veterans, their representatives, visitors, and all VA staff) in a courteous, tactful, and respectful manner.

    Work Schedule: Rotating weekends and holidays, part time and full time shifts available. Tour of duty to be set by specific needs at each location. Travel Required

    Not required

    Supervisory status

    No

    Promotion Potential

    9

  • Job family (Series)

    0644 Clinical Laboratory Science

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  • Requirements

    RequirementsConditions of Employment
    • You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job
    • Designated and/or random drug testing may be required
    • Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
    • You may be required to serve a probationary period
    • Subject to a background/security investigation
    • Must be proficient in written and spoken English
    • Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process
    QualificationsBasic Requirements:
    • United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
    • Education and/or Experience Combination:
      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,
      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,
      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).

    Preferred Experience: A MT at this level carries out the day-to-day operations in the laboratory. This would include routine testing, quality control, routine maintenance of instrumentation and troubleshooting. The MT develops, performs, evaluates, interprets, correlates and validates the accuracy of laboratory procedures and results ensuring all laboratory regulatory requirements are met. Testing procedures are performed on a variety of biological specimens and/or environmental samples using manual or automated techniques, following practices and regulations governing biosafety and biosecurity in the workplace. These require a broad exercise of independent judgment and responsibility, including organizing and setting priorities with minimal technical supervision. The work performed is in a variety of laboratory disciplines, such as chemistry, microbiology, immunology, hematology, and Immunochemistry. Such positions include requirements to monitor quality control systems and measures; collaborate in the diagnosis and treatment of patients; and provide education for laboratory healthcare professionals and the public in a professional, courteous and effective manner.

    Grade Determinations:
    GS-7 (Entry Level): None beyond the basic requirements.

    GS-9 (Full Performance Level):
    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.
    OR,
    Education. Must have master's degree or 2 academic years of progressively higher-level graduate education in medical technology or directly related field.

    Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities. In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
    1. Comprehensive knowledge of professional MT principles, practices, concepts and theories providing for sound independent work.
    2. Comprehensive knowledge of laboratory quality control and assurance procedures and principles of performance improvement in order to
    manage reagent and supply inventories and document control systems.
    3. Knowledge of laboratory equipment and ability to maintain, troubleshoot and repair instrumentation.
    4. Ability to plan, organize, set priorities, work as a team member and effectively complete assignments.
    5. Ability to use independent technical judgment to analyze and interpret laboratory results.
    6. Ability to read, interpret and apply complex written instructions.
    7. Skilled in informatics, laboratory data flow and the understanding of laboratory processes.
    8. Ability to communicate, consult and interact with other members of the healthcare team, external relations, customer service and patient education.

    References: VA HANDBOOK 5005, PART II, APPENDIX G24

    The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9.

    Physical Requirements: The incumbent must be able to perform moderate lifting up to 20 pounds, straight pulling, pushing, reaching above the shoulder, use of fingers and both hands, walking, standing for up to 4 hours, kneeling, repeated bending, use of both arms and legs. Specific visual requirements include use of both eyes, depth perception, ability to distinguish colors and shades or colors, hearing (aids permitted), clear, high cognitive function and emotional stability; ability to read ordinary type without strain.

    Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
    Education

    IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education. You must provide transcripts; otherwise, you may be removed from consideration.

    IMPORTANT: A copy of your Certification must be included in your application.

    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: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.

    Additional information

    This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.

    It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.

    This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.

    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.

    Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.

    If you are unable to apply online view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.


    How You Will Be Evaluated

    You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

    IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, résumé, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.

    Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

    Background checks and security clearanceSecurity clearance

    Not Required

    Drug test required

    Yes

    Position sensitivity and risk

    Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk

    Trust determination process

    Credentialing, Suitability/Fitness

  • Required Documents

    Required Documents

    To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:

    • VA Form 10-2850c, Application for Associated Health Occupations
    • Professional Certification
    • Resume
    • Transcript


    VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations can be found at: http://www.va.gov/vaforms/search_action.asp?FormNo=2850&tkey=&Action=Search. Required at time of application.

    The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.

    • DD-214/ Statement of Service
    • Disability Letter (VA)
    • VA Form 10-2850c, Application for Associated Health Occupations
    • Professional Certification
    • Resume
    • Transcript


    Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit http://www.fedshirevets.gov/job/vetpref/index.aspx.

    If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

    Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

    Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

  • Benefits

    Benefits

    A career with the U.S. Government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Learn more about federal benefits.

    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.


HelpThis job is open to
  • The public

    U.S. citizens, nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

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