Diagnostic Radiologic Technician
Summary This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program.
You must meet specific individual eligibility requirements in accordance with VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment.
Program Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) and eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after complete review of the EDRP application.
Responsibilities Performs the complete spectrum of general MRI imaging, which includes, but is not limited to, neck, extremities, chest, abdomen, brain, spine, orbits, vascular, upper and lower extremities, through experience gained from past work which includes applicable knowledge of MR cross sectional anatomy and computerized technical factors Performs region of interest analysis from raw data and generates special images in coronal/sagittal/oblique planes, 3D reconstructions, and MIP's Uses sterile techniques to acquire a venous site for injection of contrast with the pressure injector and observes the patient for possible adverse reactions and takes appropriate action if reaction occurs Reviews patient's prior images to obtain additional information in order to localize organs and vessels examination.
Selects the appropriate protocol and parameters necessary for the required procedure Has complete knowledge of MRI safety in order to maintain safe environment Performs contrast enhanced dynamic MRA for vascular studies which include proper knowledge of timing and bolus track application Performs all cardiac, functional and stress MRI for visualization of cardiac output and ischemic heart disease Is able to perform research MRI, MRA exams independently Performs all MR power injector tasks that include bolus prep, timing, and proper saline and track bolus Has proficiency in spoken and written English Has the ability to function independently with guidance and supervision from supervisor and radiologist Uses a wide range of MRI imaging and physiology measuring devices on a daily basis Must have knowledge of medical equipment that is attached to the patient when they are in the Radiology Service for their examination Is responsible for assisting the physician/provider to monitor the patients' physical condition including vital sign, including patients receiving conscious sedation Schedules patients for examination when needed, coordinates their arrival for the examination, prioritizes critical and emergency procedures and relays necessary preparations Receives and explains to the patient the procedures necessary for the requested examination Monitors the examination by checking the parameters used to obtain the best diagnostic data and images.
Monitors patients who have been sedated and provides appropriate assistance Maintains permanent records of patients, status tracks examinations in the computer Performs technical operations and general technical maintenance of the MRI unit, disk drives, console, etc.
Participates in the training of MRI students as required Is responsible for reviewing new developments in the field and is responsible for continuing his or her own education Should able to perform daily QA should be able to check laboratory result necessary for contrast studies Should have knowledge of MRI safety Should be able to work weekend, holidays and on call after hours Is able to operate the following MRI equipment:
GE 1.
5 Tesla Philips 1.
5 Tesla Siemens 3 Tesla Medrad Power injector Invivo patient monitor Work Schedule:
Monday -Friday 3pm -11:
30pm Eastern Standard time Telework:
Not Available Virtual:
This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #:
000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives:
Not Authorized EDRP Authorized:
Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive.
Contact visn5edrpcoordinators@va.
gov, the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance.
Learn more Permanent Change of Station (PCS):
Not Available PCS Appraised Value Offer (AVO):
Not Required 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.
Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
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 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:
Citizenship.
All applicants are required to be a citizen of the United States.
(Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates.
Certification.
All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R).
Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Advanced certification indicates that the incumbent can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination.
In modalities that require advanced certification, to support their continued development, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist.
Education.
Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE).
Credentialing Standards.
Public Law 97-35, the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75, Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs and the Credentialing of Radiographic Personnel.
Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the U.
S.
Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field.
Loss of Credential.
An employee in this occupation who fails to obtain certification within two years, or who fails to maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation, which may also result in termination of employment.
Physical Requirements.
The incumbent will be required to do the following:
A.
Position requires long periods of standing and walking, some bending, lifting, and carrying of moderately heavy items.
B.
Requires considerable effort and working in awkward positions.
C.
Ability to reach above shoulder required.
D.
Both hands and use of fingers required.
E.
Must be able to lift, carry and move heavy equipment/patients routinely English Language Proficiency.
All applicants must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.
S.
C.
7402(d), and 7407(d).
GRADE REQUIREMENTS.
a.
Creditable Experience (1) Knowledge of Current Radiologic Technology Practice.
To be creditable, experience must have demonstrated possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics (also referred to as clinical competencies) associated with current radiologic technology practice.
This may have been evidenced by the equivalent of one year of active practice, which is paid or non-paid employment as a DRT as defined by ARRT.
(2) Quality of Experience.
Experience is only creditable if it was earned after completion of the basic certification requirements identified in paragraph 2b above.
Experience as a graduate DRT is creditable provided the candidate functioned as a DRT and subsequently passed the certification examination.
(3) Part-Time Experience.
Part-time experience as a DRT is creditable according to its relationship to the full-time workweek.
For example, a DRT would receive one week of full- time credit for each two weeks of half-time work.
Specialized Assignments.
Specialized areas of radiologic technology include general diagnostic radiologic technology (R), bone densitometry (BD), mammography (M), diagnostic ultrasound (S), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MR), interventional radiologic technology (IR), quality management (QM), picture archival communication system (PACS) technologist, MRI safety officer (MRSO), imaging administrator, clinical program director, and clinical instructor.
GRADE DETERMINATIONS.
In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates.
Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-10 (1) Experience.
At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.
(2) Assignments.
For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), and range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time.
DRTs at this grade level may be appointed to one of the following assignments:
Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist.
Employees are trained to work in one or more difficult and complex modalities performing procedures related to these modalities as well as performing general diagnostic procedures.
At this grade level, any assignment in a single modality must demonstrate significant complexity.
Such assignments are unique, perhaps with expert specialization in complex areas of radiologic technology, Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) regulations, and intermediate QM type duties within the program.
The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs:
i.
Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes.
ii.
Ability to utilize advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recognize changes in equipment and procedures that might result in increased exposures, and ability to recommend methods to prevent such exposures.
iii.
Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of x-ray, to understand the operation of the equipment.
iv.
Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies.
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-10.
Education IMPORTANT:
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE).
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:
https:
//sites.
ed.
gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
Additional Information 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.
.
Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
You must meet specific individual eligibility requirements in accordance with VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment.
Program Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) and eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after complete review of the EDRP application.
Responsibilities Performs the complete spectrum of general MRI imaging, which includes, but is not limited to, neck, extremities, chest, abdomen, brain, spine, orbits, vascular, upper and lower extremities, through experience gained from past work which includes applicable knowledge of MR cross sectional anatomy and computerized technical factors Performs region of interest analysis from raw data and generates special images in coronal/sagittal/oblique planes, 3D reconstructions, and MIP's Uses sterile techniques to acquire a venous site for injection of contrast with the pressure injector and observes the patient for possible adverse reactions and takes appropriate action if reaction occurs Reviews patient's prior images to obtain additional information in order to localize organs and vessels examination.
Selects the appropriate protocol and parameters necessary for the required procedure Has complete knowledge of MRI safety in order to maintain safe environment Performs contrast enhanced dynamic MRA for vascular studies which include proper knowledge of timing and bolus track application Performs all cardiac, functional and stress MRI for visualization of cardiac output and ischemic heart disease Is able to perform research MRI, MRA exams independently Performs all MR power injector tasks that include bolus prep, timing, and proper saline and track bolus Has proficiency in spoken and written English Has the ability to function independently with guidance and supervision from supervisor and radiologist Uses a wide range of MRI imaging and physiology measuring devices on a daily basis Must have knowledge of medical equipment that is attached to the patient when they are in the Radiology Service for their examination Is responsible for assisting the physician/provider to monitor the patients' physical condition including vital sign, including patients receiving conscious sedation Schedules patients for examination when needed, coordinates their arrival for the examination, prioritizes critical and emergency procedures and relays necessary preparations Receives and explains to the patient the procedures necessary for the requested examination Monitors the examination by checking the parameters used to obtain the best diagnostic data and images.
Monitors patients who have been sedated and provides appropriate assistance Maintains permanent records of patients, status tracks examinations in the computer Performs technical operations and general technical maintenance of the MRI unit, disk drives, console, etc.
Participates in the training of MRI students as required Is responsible for reviewing new developments in the field and is responsible for continuing his or her own education Should able to perform daily QA should be able to check laboratory result necessary for contrast studies Should have knowledge of MRI safety Should be able to work weekend, holidays and on call after hours Is able to operate the following MRI equipment:
GE 1.
5 Tesla Philips 1.
5 Tesla Siemens 3 Tesla Medrad Power injector Invivo patient monitor Work Schedule:
Monday -Friday 3pm -11:
30pm Eastern Standard time Telework:
Not Available Virtual:
This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #:
000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives:
Not Authorized EDRP Authorized:
Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive.
Contact visn5edrpcoordinators@va.
gov, the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance.
Learn more Permanent Change of Station (PCS):
Not Available PCS Appraised Value Offer (AVO):
Not Required 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.
Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
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 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:
Citizenship.
All applicants are required to be a citizen of the United States.
(Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates.
Certification.
All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R).
Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Advanced certification indicates that the incumbent can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination.
In modalities that require advanced certification, to support their continued development, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist.
Education.
Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE).
Credentialing Standards.
Public Law 97-35, the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75, Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs and the Credentialing of Radiographic Personnel.
Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the U.
S.
Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field.
Loss of Credential.
An employee in this occupation who fails to obtain certification within two years, or who fails to maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation, which may also result in termination of employment.
Physical Requirements.
The incumbent will be required to do the following:
A.
Position requires long periods of standing and walking, some bending, lifting, and carrying of moderately heavy items.
B.
Requires considerable effort and working in awkward positions.
C.
Ability to reach above shoulder required.
D.
Both hands and use of fingers required.
E.
Must be able to lift, carry and move heavy equipment/patients routinely English Language Proficiency.
All applicants must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.
S.
C.
7402(d), and 7407(d).
GRADE REQUIREMENTS.
a.
Creditable Experience (1) Knowledge of Current Radiologic Technology Practice.
To be creditable, experience must have demonstrated possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics (also referred to as clinical competencies) associated with current radiologic technology practice.
This may have been evidenced by the equivalent of one year of active practice, which is paid or non-paid employment as a DRT as defined by ARRT.
(2) Quality of Experience.
Experience is only creditable if it was earned after completion of the basic certification requirements identified in paragraph 2b above.
Experience as a graduate DRT is creditable provided the candidate functioned as a DRT and subsequently passed the certification examination.
(3) Part-Time Experience.
Part-time experience as a DRT is creditable according to its relationship to the full-time workweek.
For example, a DRT would receive one week of full- time credit for each two weeks of half-time work.
Specialized Assignments.
Specialized areas of radiologic technology include general diagnostic radiologic technology (R), bone densitometry (BD), mammography (M), diagnostic ultrasound (S), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MR), interventional radiologic technology (IR), quality management (QM), picture archival communication system (PACS) technologist, MRI safety officer (MRSO), imaging administrator, clinical program director, and clinical instructor.
GRADE DETERMINATIONS.
In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates.
Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-10 (1) Experience.
At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.
(2) Assignments.
For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), and range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time.
DRTs at this grade level may be appointed to one of the following assignments:
Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist.
Employees are trained to work in one or more difficult and complex modalities performing procedures related to these modalities as well as performing general diagnostic procedures.
At this grade level, any assignment in a single modality must demonstrate significant complexity.
Such assignments are unique, perhaps with expert specialization in complex areas of radiologic technology, Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) regulations, and intermediate QM type duties within the program.
The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs:
i.
Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes.
ii.
Ability to utilize advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recognize changes in equipment and procedures that might result in increased exposures, and ability to recommend methods to prevent such exposures.
iii.
Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of x-ray, to understand the operation of the equipment.
iv.
Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies.
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-10.
Education IMPORTANT:
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE).
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:
https:
//sites.
ed.
gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
Additional Information 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.
.
Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
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