Lead Oncology Data Specialist

Aptive Resources; United States; On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Aptive Resources is seeking a Team Lead for the National Cancer Registry Services to provide critical oversight for a team of Oncology Data Specialists supporting the VA Cancer Registry System. Responsibilities include team supervision, quality control, workload management, and technical support. Applicants should have at least 3 years of experience, hold an ODS-C credential, and possess expert-level knowledge of CoC data standards. This role is vital for maintaining accurate cancer registry data to support Veterans' health services.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years as an Oncology Data Specialist, preferred 5+ years.
• At least 1 year in a supervisory role.
• Expert-level knowledge of CoC data standards, AJCC staging protocols.

Responsibilities

• Oversee a team of 5–10 individuals.
• Perform internal quality audits to ensure data accuracy.
• Assign specific case work to team members.

Skills

Oncology Data Specialist experience

Leadership

Quality Control

Jira proficiency

Compliance knowledge

Education

Oncology Data Specialist (ODS-C) credential

Tools

Jira

Job description

Job Description: Team Lead – National Cancer Registry Services

As a Team Lead for the National Cancer Registry Services contract, you will provide critical supervisory and technical oversight for a team of Oncology Data Specialists (ODS) supporting the VA Cancer Registry System (VACRS). You will ensure that your team maintains the highest standards of accuracy and timeliness in case‑finding, data curation/abstraction, and disease surveillance/follow‑up in compliance with national standard setters such as the Commission on Cancer (CoC) and the National Oncology Program Office (NOPO).

Primary Responsibilities

• Team Supervision & Management: Oversee a team of 5–10 individuals, both full‑time and part‑time.
• Quality Control (QC): Perform internal quality audits to ensure the accuracy (minimum 90%), completeness, and reliability of cancer registry data. Correct all data inconsistencies within five business days.
• Workload Management: Assign specific case work to team members based on VISN/VAMC requirements.
• Performance Tracking: Input weekly log totals and track team progress using Jira to ensure all deliverables meet PWS timelines.
• Problem Solving & Technical Support: Serve as the primary point of contact for team ODSs to field questions and resolve technical or procedural issues related to VA systems, directives, and policies.
• Reporting: Assist in the development of the Monthly Program Report, specifically providing data on Quality Control findings and workforce staffing updates.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 3 years as an Oncology Data Specialist (ODS); 5+ years preferred. At least 1 year in a leadership or supervisory role. Experience within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system is ideal.
• Credentials: Must hold a current, valid Oncology Data Specialist (ODS‑C) credential from the National Cancer Registrars Association (NCRA). Provide evidence of maintained certification annually.
• Technical Knowledge: Expert‑level knowledge of CoC data standards, AJCC staging protocols, and SEER standards. Familiarity with VA‑specific registry software and database systems. Working knowledge of Jira for task management and project tracking preferred.
• Compliance: Ability to strictly adhere to Federal security and privacy laws (Privacy Act, HIPAA) and VA sensitive information policies. Adherence to the NCRA Code of Ethics.

About the Project

This role supports the National Oncology Program Office (NOPO) in maintaining an enterprise‑wide VHA Cancer Registry System. The data curated by your team is essential for evaluating Veteran cancer incidence, treatment efficacy, and strategic planning for the VA.

EEO Statement

Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class. Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active‑duty service members are highly encouraged to apply.