Though patients don’t often see them when they visit a VA facility, the medical technologist is vital to making sure Veterans receive the top-notch care they’ve come to expect at VA. These specialists keep our laboratories running and help Veterans receive accurate and efficient test results.
A day in the life
Working across many disciplines, including chemistry, hematology, coagulation, urinalysis and microbiology, you would test and analyze blood, tissue samples and more. You would also perform tests on a number of biological specimens and environmental samples using manual and automated techniques.
We’re looking for candidates who have the independent judgment and responsibility needed to adhere to biosafety and biosecurity practices and rules. You must also think on your feet, evaluating and solving problems related to collecting and processing biological specimens for analysis.
As part of a patient’s care team, you’ll also interpret test results and suggest follow-up tests or procedures.
Education compensation
As a clinical position, medical technology requires specialized training. The job requires a bachelor’s degree or higher in a field like medical laboratory science or medical technology, though studies in other lab sciences may also qualify. You might also be able to complete a medical technology clinical practice program.
For many students, getting a degree means taking on some loan debt. But one of VA’s many benefits includes the opportunity to apply for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP). This program offers reimbursement to employees with qualifying student loans.
If you qualify, you may receive up to $200,000 over a five-year period (not to exceed $40,000 per year) to help pay off the cost of your education. You could receive annual reimbursements for payments to lenders on things like tuition, books, supplies, equipment and materials, and lab costs.
Positions offering EDRP are noted in vacancy announcements. Check the listing for the position you are interested in and find out from your local human resources team if you are eligible for the program.
A career waiting for you
If you’re still in school and considering a career with us, you may be able to gain clinical experience at VA before you graduate. Students pursuing bachelor’s degrees in medical laboratory technology or science who are interested in full-time VA careers caring for America’s Veterans can apply for the VA Learning Opportunities Residency (VALOR) program.
We are the largest health care training system in the country, providing training, residencies and fellowships to more than 120,000 trainees in over 40 disciplines each year — including medical technology. You could receive 800 hours of valuable (and paid) experience at VA. In return, you agree to join VA’s full-time team after graduation, giving you a ready-made career the moment you graduate.
Work at VA
Are you ready for a meaningful career supporting the medical team at VA? Discover a rewarding new mission as a medical technologist today.
- EXPLORE what it means to join our team.
- READ more about VA’s education benefits.
- LEARN how to navigate the hiring process.
- SEARCH our available job openings.
NOTE: Positions listed in this post were open at the time of publication. All current available positions are listed at USAJobs.gov.
Topics in this story
More Stories
Dr. Nisha Mehta encourages physicians seeing a better work/life balance to consider a move to VA.
Native American and Alaska Native Veterans deeply enrich our country, and we proudly honor their service.
When planning for your future outside of the military, consider a career with VA like Bradley Page and Dana Jones, who have found successful careers on our team.
