4 Medical Laboratory Technician Jobs in Harlingen, TX
US Veterans Health Administration is Hiring a Medical Laboratory Technician Near Harlingen, TX
Duties
Duties outlined are at the full performance level GS-6
Performs a broad range of laboratory procedures to include pre-analytic, analytic and post analytic processes with minimal technical supervision.
- Performs testing in one or more of the following areas: Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) waived testing, phlebotomy, hematology, immunohematology, clinical chemistry, immunology, toxicology, urinalysis, referral laboratory, microbiology, and specimen processing.
- Recognizes data with life threatening (critical) implications and understands the importance of immediately bringing the data to the attention of the patients' physician and/or nursing staff.
- Evaluates and solves problems related to collection and processing of biological specimens for analysis considering physiologic processes and requirements.
Incumbent performs administrative duties as necessary for laboratory services. Primary responsibilities are to receive and direct calls to appropriate laboratory department/section. Provide guidance to clinical and non-clinical staff on clinical and anatomical laboratory testing services. Document customer concerns, complaints, or compliments. Advise clinical and non-clinical staff on proper ordering protocols for patient testing and fiscal efficiency based on established guidelines or pathologist approval. Perform supplemental testing (add-on) function for the clinical laboratory and anatomical pathology. Incumbent must have technical knowledge of specimen requirements, storage, online laboratory services manual, and established policy or procedure to identify viable samples for the request determining suitability for requested testing, to include specimen location and routing for supplemental testing. Incumbent must maintain required information of all calls, physician encounters, and supplemental request.
Client Support Services
Incumbent must utilize these skills to perform primary duties of client support services. Duties are the reception of patients, performing positive patient identification procedures, verifying test orders in computer information systems, organizing patient workflow based, and processing orders correctly.
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday; 8:00am - 4:30pm
Recruitment Incentive (Sign-on Bonus): Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (Relocation Assistance): Not Authorized
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.
Functional Statement #: 000000
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
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).
- Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.
Qualifications
Specimen Collection and Processing
The incumbent maintains skills and is proficient in phlebotomy and follows established guidelines by accrediting agencies (i.e. TJC, CLSI, CAP) guidelines for blood collections. The incumbent uses two unique patient identifiers and active communication with identifying patients for blood collections and all other specimen collection processes; collects vacutainers in accordance to laboratory policies and procedures; organizes the STAT and timed draws and reviews the collection list for uncollected data for outpatient blood draw and assists staffing to ensure the needs of the service; acts as information specialist for the section and assists clinical and non-clinical staff with results, supplemental testing, collection procedures education, handling requirements and any special requirements for esoteric testing; processes specimens using appropriate equipment, instruments and techniques required for specific analysis, controls physical conditions and responds to time factors to ensure that physiologic integrity of the specimen is maintained; identifies unusual results or discrepancies/conditions that cause erroneous results (e.g. instrument malfunctions, improper test conditions, specimen appropriateness and viability); investigates and documents processing, labeling, collection and other specimen errors using problem report forms; enters reference lab results in the lab computer package, evaluates the validity of the result in relation to the test system, assay procedure, age, and gender of the patient.
Reference Laboratory Testing
The incumbent processes biological and non-biological specimens for reference laboratory testing in accordance to established policy and procedure. The incumbent creates shipping manifest, sort samples into batches according to storage stability requirements, and verify for accuracy. The Incumbent makes informed decisions based established guidelines and protocols.
Ancillary Testing/Point of Care Testing
The incumbent performs analysis using ancillary testing systems. Incumbent follows established for ancillary/point of care testing. Incumbent performs all duties independently with minimal supervision. Incumbent is to adhere by all established protocols, policy, and procedures. May perform other related duties as assigned by management which are appropriate for this grade and assignment.
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.
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.
- Education. Candidates must meet the applicable educational requirements for certification.
- Certification. (1) Candidates must currently possess one of the appropriate certifications as an MLT granted by the following organizations. (a) American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) i ASCP, Board of Certification. OR ii ASCP, Board of Registry. (b) American Medical Technologists. OR (c) American Association of Bioanalysts.
- Exception. Non-certified applicants who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for certification may receive a temporary appointment up to the full performance level not to exceed two years as a graduate MLT under the authority of 38 U.S.C. ยง 7405(c)(2) without the option to extend.
Grade Determinations:
GS-5 Experience. None beyond the basic requirements.
GS-6 (Full Performance Level)Experience. In addition to the basic requirements, candidates must possess one year of experience equivalent to the GS-05 grade level.
In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs:
i Knowledge of MLT principles, practices, concepts and theories for sound independent work.
ii Knowledge of laboratory quality control and quality assurance procedures to manage reagents and supply inventories using document control systems.
iii Ability to maintain, troubleshoot and repair instrumentation.
iv Ability to work as a team member in a laboratory setting to effectively complete assignments.v Ability to use technical judgment to interpret laboratory results.
vi Ability to apply complex written laboratory instructions.
vii Ability to consult with other members of the health care team, patients and external customers.
Preferred Experience:
- One year of phlebotomy experience with all age groups.
- Advanced knowledge and understanding of medical terminology.
- Experience in specimen collection and processing for different disciples to include in house testing and reference lab testing.
- Experience in advance phlebotomy services to include, blood culture collection, H. Pylori Breathe Test collection, Glucose Tolerance Collection, and Chain of Custody Drug Testing.
- Experience with point of care testing to include quality control and quality assurance.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-6. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-5 to GS-6.
Physical Requirements: Must be able to perform moderate lifting, straight pulling, pushing, reaching above the shoulder, use of fingers and both hands, walking, standing, kneeling, sitting, repeated bending, and use of both arms and legs. Specific visual requirements include vision for both eyes, depth perception, the ability to distinguish colors and shades of colors (color blindness), and the ability to read ordinary type without strain. The incumbent must have adequate hearing (aids permitted) and must have the ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously.
Education
Not applicable
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.
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.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
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
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. Opens in a new windowLearn 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.
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, resume, 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.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
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.
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. Opens in a new windowLearn 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.
Required Documents
As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- DD-214/ Statement of Service
- Disability Letter (Schedule A)
- Disability Letter (VA)
- License
- Other (1)
- PCS Orders
- Performance Appraisal
- Professional Certification
- Resume
- Separation Notice (RIF)
- SF-15
- SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
- Transcript
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.
How to Apply
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 04/11/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12364645.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.- To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.Agency contact information
VISN 17 SSU USAS Group
Email
VISN17SSUUSAS@va.gov
Address
VA TX Valley Coastal Bend HCS
2601 Veterans Drive
Harlingen, TX 78550
USNext steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.Fair and Transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
- Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
- Reasonable accommodation policy
- Financial suitability
- Selective Service
- New employee probationary period
- Signature and false statements
- Privacy Act
- Social security number request
Required Documents
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- DD-214/ Statement of Service
- Disability Letter (Schedule A)
- Disability Letter (VA)
- License
- Other (1)
- PCS Orders
- Performance Appraisal
- Professional Certification
- Resume
- Separation Notice (RIF)
- SF-15
- SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
- Transcript
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.
This job is open to
The public
U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.
Clarification from the agency
This vacancy announcement is an "external" job announcement. Current permanent VA employees are encouraged to apply under the "internal" announcement to receive consideration based on their current employment status. If you are a current, permanent Department of Veterans Affairs employee, or a current, permanent federal employee of another federal , you should apply to: CAZM-12364644-24-AM.
Job Summary
Full Time
$131k-180k (estimate)
03/28/2024
05/27/2024
The job skills required for Medical Laboratory Technician include Medical Laboratory, Chemistry, Analysis, Phlebotomy, Hematology, Microbiology, etc. Having related job skills and expertise will give you an advantage when applying to be a Medical Laboratory Technician. That makes you unique and can impact how much salary you can get paid. Below are job openings related to skills required by Medical Laboratory Technician. Select any job title you are interested in and start to search job requirements.
The following is the career advancement route for Medical Laboratory Technician positions, which can be used as a reference in future career path planning. As a Medical Laboratory Technician, it can be promoted into senior positions as a Medical Lab Technician II that are expected to handle more key tasks, people in this role will get a higher salary paid than an ordinary Medical Laboratory Technician. You can explore the career advancement for a Medical Laboratory Technician below and select your interested title to get hiring information.
If you are interested in becoming a Medical Laboratory Technician, you need to understand the job requirements and the detailed related responsibilities. Of course, a good educational background and an applicable major will also help in job hunting. Below are some tips on how to become a Medical Laboratory Technician for your reference.
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of an Accountant.
Quotes from people on Medical Laboratory Technician job description and responsibilities
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Step 2: Knowing the best tips for becoming an Accountant can help you explore the needs of the position and prepare for the job-related knowledge well ahead of time.
Career tips from people on Medical Laboratory Technician jobs
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Step 3: View the best colleges and universities for Medical Laboratory Technician.
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