Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

Diagnostic radiologic technologists perform procedures and examinations in hospitals or clinics under the direction of radiologists and other medical officers. Prepares and administers contrast media and medications in accordance with State and Federal regulations. Performs routine to moderately complex radiographic examination procedures by utilizing diagnostic x-ray equipment such as fluoroscopic units and general diagnostic units. 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. 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. 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 Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field. Grandfathering Provision. All persons employed in VHA as a DRT on the effective date of this qualification standard are considered to have met all qualification requirements for the title, series and grade held, including positive education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the DRT occupation. Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 7402(d), and7407(d). Preferred Experience : Two or more years creditable experience as a general radiographer and complex fluoroscopic examinations. Two or more years creditable experience using digital imaging equipment and / or PACS. Experience using GE, Phillips and / or Canon Grade Determinations : GS-05 : None beyond the basic requirements. GS-06 : Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level or the successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology / imaging. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs : a. Knowledge of basic technique standards for minimum radiographic exposure. b. Knowledge of anatomy and positioning. c. Knowledge of all patient safety procedures. d. Knowledge of radiographic producing equipment. e. Ability to learn basic computer functions. GS-07 : Experience or Education. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level; or the successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology / imaging; or successful completion of an advanced registry program, with certification, in addition to a 4-year baccalaureate degree program in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology / imaging. Education may relate to the duties of a specific position or to the occupation but must be appropriate for the position being filled. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs : a. Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system. b. Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study. c. Knowledge of radiation protection standards, minimum radiographic exposure techniques, appropriate beam limitation to anatomical area, and employing lead shielding when performing standard radiographic and fluoroscopic procedures. d. Knowledge of computed radiography, CR readers and Digital Imaging systems. e. Knowledge of PACS and basic computer skills. GS-08 : Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs : a. Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines. b. Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed. c. Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results. d. Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed. e. Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers. f. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. References : VA Handbook 5005 / 119, Part II, Appendix G25 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-08. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-05 to GS-08. Physical Requirements : Heavy lifting (45 pounds and over); moderate carrying (15-44 pounds); reaching above shoulders; use of fingers; both hands required; standing (4 hours); both legs required; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; both eyes required; depth perception; hearing (aid permitted). ["This vacancy will remain open until filled. The first cut-off date is 5 / 22 / 2024. Additional applications will be referred as needed. Duties include but are not limited to : a. Assist radiologist(s) in the less complex fluoroscopic examinations. b. Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist(s) for the purpose of performing exams requiring injectable solutions such as IVP, cystogram, cholangiograms fistulagrams and arthrography and for the purpose of performing oral and rectal exams of the GI tract. In the case of injected contrast media, a patient consent form must be obtained, when appropriate. These procedures require the use of needles, syringes, intravenous contrast agents, barium, enema bags and drinking cups. c. Responsible to the radiologist(s) and supervisor(s) for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed in order to assure a high level of acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs. d. Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patient, staff and self. This is achieved using lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls and collimation. As part of compliance with radiation safety regulations and guidelines the technologists / technicians must wear radiation exposure monitoring badge when in designated radiation areas. The incumbent must also be aware of and practice the safety policies / procedures of the medical center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed. e. Performs image processing procedures such as loading and unloading cassettes on CR digitizers, adjusting image quality when necessary and printing images when required in order to provide adequate and proper processed radiologic examinations. f. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. Edits and when necessary registers patients in the computerized Radiology Information System (RIS) as well as the work list management portion of the HIS-RIS interface. g. Properly identifies the patients and the images. Uses left and right markers. This is essential so that mistaken identity does not occur. The technologist must confirm the identification of the patient prior to beginning any study by using two (2) identifiers such as last name, birthdate or, in the case of ER or inpatients, the patients ID band. It is imperative that patient and the requested exam are identical. h. Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that 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 vital signs, recognize allergic reactions and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation. i. Performs radiographic exams at the bedside and in the operating rooms providing diagnostic x-rays to the surgeons and professional staff on patients that are unable to be x-rayed in the Radiology Service due to incapacity or surgical procedures. These exams are achieved using portable x-ray units and mobile intensifier units (C-Arms) that may be in Surgery or other areas within the medical center. j. Responsible for cleanliness and stocking adequate levels of supplies in assigned areas. Must report equipment malfunction in a timely manner to the supervisor. k. Incumbent must be professional, cooperative and be able to work with other employees. l. Responsible to the radiologist(s) and supervisor(s) for any other tasks or duties as appropriate, assigned, and / or directed. Work Schedule : Monday - Friday 8 : 00 - 4 : 30 Recruitment Incentive : Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (Relocation Assistance) : Not Authorized Pay : Competitive salary and regular salary increases Paid Time Off : 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year) Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior [work experience] or military service experience. Parental Leave : After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child. Child Care Subsidy : After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $ Retirement : Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA Insurance : Federal health / vision / dental / term life / long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement) Telework : Not Available Virtual : This is not a virtual position. Position Title / Functional Statement # : Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (R) Relocation / Recruitment Incentives : Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS) : Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report : Not required"]