This is a technologist who must be able to function independently and operate as a member of a multi-leveled organization. Nuclear Medicine Technologists in this assignment perform fusion imaging such as PET/CT, SPECT/CT and/or PET/MR procedures that include diagnostic nuclear medicine, CT, and/or MR fused images.
Summary
This is a technologist who must be able to function independently and operate as a member of a multi-leveled organization. Nuclear Medicine Technologists in this assignment perform fusion imaging such as PET/CT, SPECT/CT and/or PET/MR procedures that include diagnostic nuclear medicine, CT, and/or MR fused images.
First Area of Consideration: Current, Permanent Northport VA Medical Center Employees.
Second Area of Consideration: Current, Permanent VISN 2 Employees.
Multi-modality technologists must hold appropriate specific certifications in nuclear medicine (NMTCB or ARRT(N), as well as CT (NMTCB(CT)) or ARRT (CT), and or MR (ARRT(MR)) applicable to independently perform the assignment duties. They carry out these complex assignments independently as part of nuclear medicine procedures. Assignments may include injection of contrast and recognition of allergic reaction, contraindications, and medication interactions. The technologist is responsible for performing routine, specialized, and non-routine radionuclide studies for the diagnosis, treatment, and investigation of pathological disorders. He/ She must be able to perform associated quality control and troubleshooting, as well as safe handling of radioactive isotopes, following rules and regulations established by the NRC, NHPP, VA governing board as well as patient safety standards set forth by Joint Commission. The technologist is also required to complete all necessary annual training mandated by the VA Medical Center as well as credentials and continuing education credits required by NMTCB(CT) and/or ARRT(N)(CT).
2. Functions:
a. Must possess excellent venipuncture techniques using a variety of equipment, such as butterfly setups, syringes with needles and IV catheters. The individual must be able to work without supervision and be able to set reasonable priorities.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively with staff Nuclear Medicine Physicians, physician extenders, and the Chief Technologist/Supervisor to optimize patient care and image quality. Ability to educate referring physicians toward study appropriateness and patient preparation, as well as performing complex exams is desired.
b. Must verify the constancy, accuracy, and linearity of survey meters and dose calibrators, or have them serviced to ensure a safe environment following radiation protection guidelines in accordance with ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) principles. The individual will calibrate, standardize, and regularly adjust the scanners for appropriate energy photopeak's of the different isotopes used. They must recognize acceptable daily QC scans and be able to perform monthly and quarterly QC as required by the manufacturer. Must have practical knowledge and skill in the use of ancillary equipment with an understanding of how the results will affect the study outcome. Must be able to troubleshoot and make simple repairs to PET/CT and/or PET/MR imaging systems.
c. Must have the skill to be able to differentiate multi-modality protocols and adjust protocols according to patient needs, body mass index, or area of interest.
d. Must have a high level of computer proficiency and the knowledge of unique scanning and processing parameters required of multi-modality imaging.
e. Expectations center on the performance of high-quality imaging consistent with protocols for prescribed examination. Building and detailing protocol adjustments is necessary for various scan indications. Creation of patient preparation and education material as needed. Participation in scheduling matrix design and implementation is anticipated. Understanding of optimal practice and proper use of all equipment including manufacturer specifications and guidelines.
f. Must be attentive to the needs of the patient and be able to care for patients during all stages of the procedure and provide emergency response care when necessary. Must be able to communicate and anticipate possible limitations in view of the capabilities of the imaging equipment. Workflow management experience is a must to be able to optimize efficiencies of the scanner and resources of the department including the control room, hot lab, and injection rooms. This may be particularly challenging when performing advanced functional exams. Must have knowledge of contrast media, side effects. Medication allergic reactions, drug interactions, and extravasation assessment.
Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
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
Must be proficient in written and spoken English
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process
Must submit all the required documents at the time of application, failure to do so may result in disqualification.
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:
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 nuclear medicine technology by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (N). NMTCB or ARRT (N) certification eligibility requirements are normally satisfied by one of the following:
A) Completion of a NMTCB-recognized nuclear medicine technology program
OR,
B) Completion of a nuclear medicine technology program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT), or other accrediting agencies as recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE), culminating in a certificate, associate, baccalaureate, or master's degree. Educational programs must have structured clinical training sufficient to provide clinical competency in radiation safety, instrumentation, clinical procedures, and radio-pharmacy, as deemed acceptable by the NMTCB. NOTE: Technologists functioning as multi-modality technologists require additional specific certifications as stated in assignment descriptions below. Exceptions. Non-certified applicants, who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for NMTCB or ARRT (N) certification, may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate NMT under the authority of 38 U.S.C. ? 7405 (a)(1)(D). Failure to obtain certification [within 1 year from the date of appointment] is justification for termination of the temporary appointment. This may result in termination of employment.
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).
Preferred Qualification: BLS Certificate
Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for employment, the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates: Nuclear Medicine Technologist (Multi-Modality Technologist), GS-11
(a) Experience. For assignments above the journey level, the candidate must have 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level directly related to the position being filled, and must fully meet the KSAs at that level. (b) Assignments. For all assignments above the journey level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. NMTs at this level are fully functional as an advanced NMT and carry out their assigned tasks independently. NMTs in this assignment perform fusion imaging such as PET/CT, SPECT/CT and/or PET/MR procedures that include diagnostic nuclear medicine, CT, and/or MR fused images. Multi-modality technologists must hold appropriate specific certifications in nuclear medicine (NMTCB or ARRT(N)), as well as CT (NMTCB(CT)) or ARRT (CT)), and/or MR (ARRT (MR)) applicable to independently perform the assignment duties. They carry out these complex assignments independently as part of nuclear medicine procedures. Assignments may include injection of contrast and recognition of allergic reaction, contraindications, and medication interactions. The work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform at this level.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs:
i. Knowledge of contrast media, side effects, medication allergic reactions, drug interactions, and extravasation assessment.
ii. Skill to differentiate multi-modality protocols and adjust protocols according to patient needs, body mass index, or area of interest.
iii. Knowledge of unique scanning and processing parameters required of multi-modality imaging.
iv. Ability to troubleshoot and make simple repairs to PET/CT and/or PET/MR imaging systems.
v. Ability to care for patients during all stages of the procedure and provide emergency response care when necessary.
vi. Knowledge of all contraindications for performing CT and/or MR scans.
References: VA Handbook 5005/125 Part II Appendix G19, NUCLEAR MEDICINE TECHNOLOGIST
QUALIFICATION STANDARD GS-0601
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11.
Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019
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.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
VA form 10-2850c- Associated Health occupations application - dated within a year of application date
Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (N)
CT (NMTCB(CT)) or ARRT (CT)), and/or MR (ARRT (MR))
Resume
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations can be found at:https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-2850c-fill.pdfApplication is required at the time of application, failure to provide at the time of application will result in disqualification from being considered.
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
VA form 10-2850c- Associated Health occupations application - dated within a year of application date
Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (N)
CT (NMTCB(CT)) or ARRT (CT)), and/or MR (ARRT (MR))
Professional Certification
Resume
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
FINAL DOCUMENTS REMINDER THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION. FAILURE TO PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS WIL LRESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION FROM BEING CONSIDERED FOR THE POSITION. THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS ARE AS FOLLOWS: VA FORM 10-2850C- APPLICATION FOR ASSOCIATED HEALTH OCCUPATIONS, PROOF OF CERTIFICATIONS, YOUR MOST CURRENT SF-50 DATED WITHIN A YEAR OF APPLICATION SHOWING YOUR MOST RECENT GRADE, STEP AND SALARY. THE SF-50 CANNOT BE AN AWARD SF-50.
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit http://www.fedshirevets.gov/job/vetpref/index.aspx.
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 01/13/2021 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/10994382.
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.
Northport VA Medical Center
79 Middleville Road Building 200
Northport, NY 11768
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.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
VA form 10-2850c- Associated Health occupations application - dated within a year of application date
Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (N)
CT (NMTCB(CT)) or ARRT (CT)), and/or MR (ARRT (MR))
Resume
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations can be found at:https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-2850c-fill.pdfApplication is required at the time of application, failure to provide at the time of application will result in disqualification from being considered.
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
VA form 10-2850c- Associated Health occupations application - dated within a year of application date
Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (N)
CT (NMTCB(CT)) or ARRT (CT)), and/or MR (ARRT (MR))
Professional Certification
Resume
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
FINAL DOCUMENTS REMINDER THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION. FAILURE TO PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS WIL LRESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION FROM BEING CONSIDERED FOR THE POSITION. THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS ARE AS FOLLOWS: VA FORM 10-2850C- APPLICATION FOR ASSOCIATED HEALTH OCCUPATIONS, PROOF OF CERTIFICATIONS, YOUR MOST CURRENT SF-50 DATED WITHIN A YEAR OF APPLICATION SHOWING YOUR MOST RECENT GRADE, STEP AND SALARY. THE SF-50 CANNOT BE AN AWARD SF-50.
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit http://www.fedshirevets.gov/job/vetpref/index.aspx.
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 01/13/2021 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/10994382.
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.
Northport VA Medical Center
79 Middleville Road Building 200
Northport, NY 11768
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.
