Career Center

Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI/CT) The employee is certified/licensed by the American Registry of Radiology Technologists (ARRT) with R, CT, and MR designations. He/she operates the following modalities: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), and General Radiography (x-ray). ***Highly qualified candidates may qualify for a recruitment incentive up to $20,000*** ***Highly qualified candidates may qualify for a recruitment incentive up to $20,000*** 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: 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. 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), or Mammography (M) duties performed independently, as applicable. 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. English Language Proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d). Grade Determinations: Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-10 Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, GS-9, directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level, which include: Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. AND Certification: Advanced ARRT certification. Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). AND Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 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. References: VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25 Preferred Experience: The employee is certified/licensed by the American Registry of Radiology Technologists (ARRT) with R, and CT designations and has demonstrated possession of the knowledge, skills abilities, and other "core competencies" associated with current radiologic technology practice. Capable of Basic Life Support interventions if needed and maintains a current BLS certificate from the American Red Cross. The incumbent operates the following modalities: Computerized Tomography (CT), General Radiology (x-ray), Fluoroscopy (C-arm and General Fluoroscopy), and Bone Density. The incumbent in this position is required to participate in the on-call schedule and travel up to 50%. Computed Tomography (CT): This specialized modality requires specific knowledge of cross-sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral, and/or multi-slice computer tomography, inclusive of 3-D reconstruction scans. The technologist requires specific knowledge and training in the location, appearance, and function of the various major and minor systems susceptible to radiological illumination; to interpret the examination request accurately; to understand the functioning and inter-relationship of the various organs; to use the methods and techniques which will identify organs appearing on the digital display monitor, and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the image and/or scan for diagnostic use and to emphasize the aspects of particular interest to the physician. Diagnostic radiologic procedures and examinations (e.g., x-ray, fluoroscopy, and bone density) in hospitals or clinics are performed under the direction of radiologists and other medical officers. The objective of the examinations and procedures is to produce radiographic studies used in medical diagnosis and interpreted by medical officers to locate injuries, foreign bodies, pathological conditions, or lesions within the body. They prepare and administer contrast media and medications in accordance with State and Federal regulations. All diagnostic radiologic technologists must be knowledgeable in Digital Radiography (DR) systems and components and Picture Archiving and Communications Systems (PACS). The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-10. Physical Requirements: Heavy lifting, moderate carrying, straight pulling, pushing, reaching above shoulder, use of fingers, both hands required, walking, standing, kneeling, repeated bending, both legs required, operation of motor vehicle ["Duties include, but are not limited to: MRI Functions: a. Safeguards the MRI Scanning environment sufficient to maintain a safe condition at all times. Employee observes patient safety guidelines as set forth in department and Medical Center policies and procedures. b. Provides input for the development of policy and procedure for the MRI section, pursuant to the delivery of MRI services at the highest possible standard of patient safety, in accordance with the recommendations of the American College of Radiology, The Joint Commission and Veterans Health Administration (VHA) policies. c. In conjunction with the radiologist, develops, maintains, and improves a system of examination protocols in order to standardize examination appearance, to tailor the images obtained to the pathologic condition being investigated, and to optimize the benefit to the patient being examined. d. Trains other personnel in MRI principles, procedures, capabilities, techniques, and equipment. Explains concepts and principles of the methodology and its use and limitations as a diagnostic tool. e. Interprets requests and instructions from medical providers, under the guidance of the Radiologist. f. Properly identifies patient by confirming patient name and social security number. This is essential so that mistaken identity of patient images does not occur. g. Informs the patient about the examination, securing their trust, confidence, and cooperation. h. Fully screens each patient for contra-indications or risk factors for any of the techniques that are to be used in the examination. Collaboration with the Radiologist will take place in the presence of any of the above, and the examination and/or the patient's post procedural care will be adjusted accordingly. CT Functions: a. Independently operates Computed Tomography (CT) scanner and coordinates exams in a manner as to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. This requires the ability to prioritize scheduled patients, as well as the ability to accommodate the emergency patient. b. Properly identifies patient by confirming patient name and social security number. This is essential so that mistaken identity of patient images does not occur. c. Responsible for explaining exam procedures to competent patients to the extent the patient understands what is to be done, as well as what hazards, if any, are possible. May be required by procedure or patient's condition to monitor breathing and pulse, recognize allergic reactions, and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation. d. Routinely assesses patient for contraindications for ordered procedure (i.e. elevated estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) for IV contrast exam, allergy to contrast media etc. (completes Patient Assessment form). Possesses knowledge of and skills needed to access patient clinical record (CPRS), diagnosis and laboratory results. e. Confers with radiologists to determine appropriate protocols for non-standard exams. Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scanning and performs reconstructions of CT studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure. f. Under the direction of the Radiologist or Licensed Independent Provider (LIP) the technologist prepares, labels, and administers contrast agents according to signed orders. g. Technologist is required to maintain adequate competency to insert an appropriate IV catheter and the use of automated or manual injection techniques according to signed contrast orders. h. The technologist must possess a thorough knowledge of the effects and adverse reactions of contrast materials used in the department and must be continuously on the alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. Adverse reactions require immediate attention. Functions - DR: a. Performs radiographic exams in the department (general x-ray, general fluoroscopy, bone density) or bedside (portable x-ray, c-arm) under the direction of radiologists and other medical officers. Has adequate knowledge to operate all ionizing equipment. b. Properly identifies patient by confirming patient name and social security number. This is essential so that mistaken identity of patient images does not occur. c. Maintains sufficient knowledge and capability of the PACS system to adequately transfer images and other pertinent data for radiologist interpretation and diagnosis. Some basic computer skills are required for this function. Work Schedule: Full-time Weekday Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:30am - 4:00pm Weekday Call Schedule: Monday - Friday, 4:00pm - 7:30am the following day Weekend Call Schedule: Saturday - Sunday, 7:30am - 7:30am the following day Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

Return to Search Results