About the opportunity
The NIH Clinical Center’s Department of Laboratory Medicine (DLM) is a full-service laboratory providing diagnostic support for immunology, hematology, phlebotomy, microbiology, and chemistry. The department supports both clinical testing for patients and the application of research approaches to clinical testing. As a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Microbiology), you will evaluate clinical specimens, perform specialized analytical procedures, identify testing issues, report results, and participate in proficiency testing. This is an emergency essential position requiring 24/7 availability. The role is graded at the GS-09/11 level, with potential for salary negotiation based on superior qualifications and student loan repayment options.
Salary and benefits
- Competitive federal salary (GS-09/11 pay scale)
- Potential for salary above the minimum based on superior qualifications
- Potential for student loan repayment assistance
- Service credit for prior work experience or active duty service for annual leave accrual
- Federal health and insurance benefits
Who can apply?
- Must meet basic education requirements: Bachelor's or graduate degree in biological science, chemistry, or mathematics, plus completion of an accredited Medical Laboratory Scientist program
- Alternatively, a 4-year course of study including 12 months in an approved medical technology program
- Alternatively, specific semester hours in biological science, chemistry, and mathematics plus five years of full-time clinical laboratory experience
- GS-09: Two years of progressively higher-level graduate education or one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-07
- GS-11: Three years of progressively higher-level graduate education or one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-09
- Must pass the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment
Required documents
- Resume (maximum two pages)
- Unofficial transcripts (official transcripts required upon selection)
- Documentation for veterans' preference (e.g., DD-214, SF-15 if applicable)
- Documentation for Schedule A eligibility (if applicable)
- Documentation for military spouse eligibility (if applicable)
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM ET on 2026-09-14
How to apply
- Click the Apply Online button on the USAJOBS announcement page
- Complete the online application questionnaire
- Upload all required documentation
- Submit the application package by the closing date
- Complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment if invited via email (must be completed within 48 hours of the announcement closing or receipt of the link)
Additional information
- This is an emergency essential position requiring 24/7 availability
- Applicants must meet a cut score on the USA Hire assessment to be considered
- Category Rating procedures are used for selection
- Technical support is available at hrss@nih.gov
- Reasonable accommodation requests must be made before the closing date
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Clinical laboratory scientists with specialized training in microbiology and diagnostic testing.
- Candidates who hold the required degrees and have completed accredited medical technology programs.
- Professionals comfortable with the demands of an emergency essential, 24/7 clinical environment.
What should you think carefully about?
- The 24/7 emergency essential requirement is a non-negotiable aspect of the role.
- The position is strictly on-site in Bethesda, MD, requiring local presence.
- Applicants must pass the USA Hire assessment and meet specific cut scores to be considered.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position is ideal for a scientist looking to bridge the gap between clinical diagnostics and research. It offers a stable federal career with competitive pay and the potential for student loan repayment, providing a solid foundation for those early-to-mid career.
Our take
This role is well-suited for dedicated laboratory scientists who want to work in a high-impact research environment. It is not suitable for those who cannot commit to the 24/7 emergency essential availability.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
