Clarification from the agency

This announcement for DRTs, DRT (CT), and DRT (MRI) is open to all U.S. Citizens.

Videos

*****The Phoenix VA Health Care System is Seeking Highly Energetic Candidates*****
This vacancy is a solicitation for a Hiring Fair Event, which will be on an invite only basis once the position qualifications have been met. If you receive an invitation, you will be required to attend in person on:

• Date: October 22, 2022
• Time: 8:00AM. - 3:00PM.
• Location of Hiring Event: VA Outpatient Clinic, 32^nd Street - (Address and map of hiring fair location will be provided to candidates who have met minimum qualifications for invitation)

You will be notified of your qualifications and if determined to be minimally qualified, you will receive an invitation for interview and MUST RSVP no later than 10/17/2022. Applicants should plan for a long day if selected, as there are several pre-employment stations to clear.
Requirements for Pre-Employment Screening:

• Fingerprints (Two forms of ID required)
• Security background
• Physical (if applicable to occupation)
• Drug testing (if applicable to occupation)
• Immunizations (Immunization records preferred)
• Medical Credentialing (if applicable to occupation)

The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist position assist radiologists in fluoroscopic examinations. This position is directly responsible for patient safety and is under direct supervision of the radiologist during examination. The major duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist for the purpose of performing exams requiring oral or injectable solutions.
• Practices radiation safety to reduce exposure to patient, staff, and self.
• Practices the safety policies and procedures of the medical center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed.
• Explains exams to competent patients so that the patient understands what is to be done.
• Performs radiographic exams at the bedside and in the operating rooms providing diagnostic x-rays to the surgeons and professional staff.
• Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients.
• Performs bone density examinations (DEXA scans).

The Diagnostic Radiology Technologist (Computed Tomography) works under the supervision of the Chief Technologist. This position works independently but confers with radiologists and supervisor on more difficult problems. The major duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Ensures that adequate quantities of Computed Tomography (CT) supplies are available to meet workload demands through a systemized process of ordering, receipt, and inventory control.
• Trains new technologists in CT angiography, CT guided needle biopsies, drainages, and other special procedures.
• Performs computerized tomography of the head, neck, spine, chest, and body with and without the use of contrast materials.
• Utilizes technical factors, positioning, number, and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scanning.
• Performs "scrub-in technique," preparation of surgical trays, preparation of contrast, supplying of catheters and guide wires, sterile assurance of the patient and equipment that may encounter the sterile field.

The Diagnostic Radiology Technologist (MRI) works under the general direction of the Radiologist and the Chief Technologist who set the overall objectives and program emphasis. Assignments are made in the form of work assignments and verbal instructions. This position independently carries out assignments, coordinates the work with others, and keeps the Chief Technologist informed of potential problems in meeting patient needs. The major duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Monitors patient during all phases of the examination, removing the patient from the influence of the magnetic field upon completion of the data acquisition.
• Coordinates with the radiologist to determine the most ideal pulse sequences and other parameters necessary to accomplish a high-quality examination.
• Programs all technical factors by integrating computer console and choose the most effective coil for producing the correct signal.
• Records all computer data, scanning data, on film and or optical disc.
• Monitors data pertinent to patient, equipment information, and usage.
• Performs, and maintains a monitoring system for quality assurance purposes and complies with FDA Safety Standards.
• Identifies administrative, clinical, or mechanical problems, and defines solutions.
• Sets up, and positions patients, provides immobilization devices, selects proper technical factors, on an individual patient basis, and operates the equipment.

Work Schedule: Varies per position and location. Work Schedules are detailed in the Announcement assessment.
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 000000
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

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 Department of Veterans Affairs Personnel.

Qualifications

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

• Citizenship. Citizen of the United States.
• Certification. 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. Advanced certification indicates that the applicant can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination. [A COPY OF CERTIFICATION MUST BE SUBMITTED WITH APPLICATION].
• Education. Applicant must have completed a full-time training course of at least 24 months in a 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 other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE). [TRANSCRIPT(S) MUST BE SUBMITTED. COMPLETION DATE SHOULD BE PRESENT ON TRANSCRIPT(S) and/or certification. UNOFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT(S) OK. Please make sure that your experience is evident in your resume. Please make sure your resume contains hours worked per week, and beginning and ending month and year, for each work experience entry, or else your resume will be considered incomplete, and you will be considered "ineligible" for the position.]

Grade Determinations:
GS-5 Experience: None beyond the basic requirements above.

Assignment. DRTs at this level operate and monitor commonly used equipment performing routine procedures under general supervision. The technician functions somewhat independently in carrying out these standardized procedures of limited complexity. Deviations from regular procedures, unanticipated problems, and unfamiliar situations are referred to the supervisor for a decision or help.

GS-6 Experience: Applicants must have at least 1 year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-5) 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. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Assignment. Employees at this grade level serve as developmental DRTs, performing examinations which are routine and standardized in nature. They explain exams to patients in terms they can understand as well as potential hazards. They must also troubleshoot equipment used for diagnostic radiology and exercise extreme caution in the handling and safeguarding of all radiation producing equipment.

GS-7 Experience: Applicants must have 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. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: 1. Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system. 2. Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study. 3. 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. 4. Knowledge of computed radiography, CR readers and Digital Imaging systems. 5.Knowledge of PACS and basic computer skills.

Assignment. DRTs at this level perform a full range of duties but receive guidance and directions regarding unfamiliar or unusual situations for more complex patient issues. Candidates at this grade level may be qualified to provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services.

GS-8 Experience: Applicants must have at least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: 1. Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines. 2. Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed. 3. Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results. 4. Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed. 5. Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers. 6. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest.

Assignments. Employees at this grade level serve as staff DRTs at the full performance level. Candidates at this grade level must be qualified to independently provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services with only occasional oversight or direction for highly complex issues.

GS-9 Diagnostics Radiologic Technologist Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-08) directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:1. Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures.2. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers.3. Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure.4. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography.5. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions.6. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients.

Assignment. 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.

References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G25- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard.

Physical Requirements: Light lifting (under 15 pounds); light carrying (under 15 pounds); straight pulling (2 hours); reaching above shoulder; walking (2 hours); standing (2 hours); repeated bending (2 hours); near vision corrected to 13" to 16"; far vision correctable in on eye to 20/20 and 20/40 in the other; and hearing (aid permitted).

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.

The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.

It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.

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.