DRTs perform procedures and examinations in hospitals or clinics under the direction of radiologists and other medical officers. The objective of the examinations and procedures is to produce radiographic studies that are used in medical diagnosis and interpreted by medical officers to locate injuries, foreign bodies, pathological conditions, or lesions within the body.
Summary
DRTs perform procedures and examinations in hospitals or clinics under the direction of radiologists and other medical officers. The objective of the examinations and procedures is to produce radiographic studies that are used in medical diagnosis and interpreted by medical officers to locate injuries, foreign bodies, pathological conditions, or lesions within the body.
This position has been identified as one of the hybrid title 38 occupations reported among the occupations with the largest staffing shortages and, therefore, under 38 U.S.C. § 7412 waives the requirement to apply Veterans' preference to external applicants for appointments made during the FY 2020. First area of consideration will be given to current Lexington VAMC non-temporary employees.
As a Diagnostic Radiologic MRI Technologist, the incumbent has the responsibility for the performance of Diagnostic Radiology (DRT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) exams under the direction of the Radiologist. All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (R). In addition, advanced ARRT certification in MRI is required for this position.
The incumbent independently performs Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) of the head, neck, spine, chest, body and extremities. These exams are performed with and without use of contrast materials. He/She evaluates critical and emergency procedures and rearranges schedule to accommodate the situation. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies so that proper diagnosis and treatment may be effectuated.
Duties include but aren't limited to:
Schedules exams in a manner so as to optimize procedural scan times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases
Confers with radiologists to determine requirement of nonstandard exams that do not conform to established standard protocols. Determines technical factors, positioning, etc., to produce a high-quality diagnostic study. Notifies the physician of scans requiring their immediate attention
Performs routine and advanced neurological and angiographic studies of the head, neck, spine, chest, body and extremities utilizing highly sophisticated x-ray equipment such as the MRI unit, patient monitors, PACS, etc. to achieve a high quality diagnostic study.
Works with the radiologist and/or other healthcare professional as a member of the radiographic team with the responsibility for anticipating technique factor difficulties, preparation of contrast, etc. Must assist and anticipate the needs of the professional staff during the performance of the exam. Must be continuously on the alert regarding the patient's condition, supplies and instrument requirements to assure that all preventive measures have been taken to minimize hazards associated with the procedure.
Prepares contrast materials for required procedures. It is essential that those who prepare and administer contrast materials possess a thorough understanding of its usage and contraindications.
Practices radiation safety (ALARA) in order to reduce exposure to the patients, employee, staff, and others
Performs advanced image manipulations on workstations as directed by the radiologist, healthcare professional or standard operation protocol.
Maintains accurate records and files of exams performed on patients
Responsible for inventory and stocking of all MRI supplies and other related materials.
Performs and/or supervises routine housekeeping duties to assure area is clean and sanitary.
Incumbent is responsible for the use of Reusable Medical Equipment (RME) and must be familiar with which items are reprocessed locally (on unit) and/or which items are sent to sterile processing and/or SPD for reprocessing and/or sterilization.
Assists in the training of new radiology technologists, students, residents and other staff for the purpose of enhancing the personal and professional development of others within the medical service as directed by management.
Performs other related (lateral and/or lower grade) duties as assigned
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 1:00 pm - 9:30 pm May be required to work some weekends, holidays, on call and overtime shifts to provide coverage as needed for patient care
Designated and/or random drug testing may be required
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
You may be required to serve a probationary period
Subject to a background/security investigation
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process
Basic Requirements:
United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3g..
Certification: All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (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.
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's 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).]
English Language Proficiency: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologists must be proficient spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d) and in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II,Chapter 2, Section D, Paragraph 5a.
All employees must:
Show a commitment to VHA: Applicants should demonstrate interest in a rewarding career working for VHA.
Provide Excellent Customer Service: Meets the needs of customers while supporting VA missions. Consistently communicates and treats customers (veterans, their representatives, visitors, and all VA staff) in a courteous, tactful, and respectful manner. Provides the customer with consistent information per established policies and procedures- handles conflict and problems in dealing with the customer constructively and appropriately. Must be able to accept criticism and maintain a calm demeanor in stressful situations.
Qualifications
Grade Determinations: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE FOR GS-9 LEVEL: Completion of 1 year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS-8), that is directly related to the position to be filled and that demonstrates possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities and other characteristics needed to provide services as a diagnostic radiologic technologist.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR). This specialty modality requires additional knowledge of superconducting magnets, the physics of superconducting magnets, and how they relate to the human anatomy in medical imaging. The technologist must be educated in the safety factors governing a magnetic environment that patients, visitors, and equipment enter. The practitioner must have specialized knowledge of cross sectional anatomy and how it relates to the soft tissues and vessels of the human body. The technologist must also have specialized knowledge in the radio-frequency surface coils required for each specific anatomical area to be imaged. [This assignment may also perform basic magnetic resonance safety program duties. Technologists must be knowledgeable in contrast media, power injectors, and PACS. DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT (MR) certification.]
Employees at this level are fully functional as an advanced DRT and carry out their assigned tasks independently. DRTs at this level may have varying assignments including special and complex imaging procedures beyond the full performance level, clinical instruction, and basic QM type duties within the program. Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment, the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform at this level. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*):
KSA 1 - *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures.
KSA 2 - Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers.
KSA 3 - *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure.
KSA 4 - Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography.
KSA 5 - Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions.
KSA 6 - Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients.
References: VA Regulations, specifically VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G-25 DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGIST QUALIFICATION STANDARD. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office. For more information on these qualification standards, please visit OPM's web site at http://www.opm.gov/qualifications.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9.
Physical Requirements: All candidates must be physically and mentally able to perform efficiently the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, without hazard to themselves or others. Candidates must meet the physical requirements outlined in Section II and Section VI of the OPM Operating Manual, Qualification Standards for General Scale Positions and must possess emotional and mental stability.
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
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: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.
Additional information
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
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.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
If you are unable to apply online view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, résumé, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE REQUIRED AT TIME OF APPLICATION.If you fail to supply the required documents above, you will not be considered further for this vacancy.
If you are applying as a current Facility and/or Federal employee, please include your most recent SF-50 (that is not an award SF-50) to be determined eligible for the first area(s) of consideration.
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
Cover Letter
Other (2)
Professional Certification
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 06/08/2020 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/10825707.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations where patients receive care or who come into contact with VA patients as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, paid and unpaid, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, students, researchers, volunteers, and trainees who work at these facilities. HCPs that are unable to receive or otherwise decline a flu shot will be expected to wear a face mask throughout the influenza season.
Lexington VA Health Care System
2250 Leestown Road
Lexington, KY 40511
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE REQUIRED AT TIME OF APPLICATION.If you fail to supply the required documents above, you will not be considered further for this vacancy.
If you are applying as a current Facility and/or Federal employee, please include your most recent SF-50 (that is not an award SF-50) to be determined eligible for the first area(s) of consideration.
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
Cover Letter
Other (2)
Professional Certification
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 06/08/2020 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/10825707.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations where patients receive care or who come into contact with VA patients as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, paid and unpaid, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, students, researchers, volunteers, and trainees who work at these facilities. HCPs that are unable to receive or otherwise decline a flu shot will be expected to wear a face mask throughout the influenza season.
Lexington VA Health Care System
2250 Leestown Road
Lexington, KY 40511
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
