Videos

Duties include but not limited to:

• Assists Radiologists during :fluoroscopic examinations. Performs :fluoroscopic imaging during examinations conducted by other providers.
• Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the Radiologist for examinations requiring injectable solutions such as cystogram, arthrography and barium suspensions for the purpose of performing upper and lower exams of the GI tract.
• Sets up and prepares sterile surgical fields and prepare patients for arthrograms, injections or drains.
• Responsible to the Radiologists and supervisor for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed to assure a high level of quality of radiographs while minimizing radiation dosage and reducing costs. Advises Radiologists, participating providers or referring physicians of examination results and notifies them of examinations requiring their immediate attention.
• Practices radiation safety using principles of ALARA, reducing exposure to patient, staff and self. The technologist assures compliance with radiation regulations for all staff including the wearing of film badges. The technologist must also be aware of and practice the safety policies/procedures of the medical center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed.
• Performs imaging using direct radiography and computed radiography with the images processed digitally. This work includes computer manipulation (window/level), patient acquisition through work list and releasing images to storage system (VistA and P ACS) and printing.
• Knowledge of procedures results in accurate and properly processed radiographs.
• Registers patient procedures in the VISTA system and verifies with the patient the orders are accurate.
• Properly selects patient information from the HIS/RIS list on the workstation, verifies patient information prior to making exposure. Ensures all pertinent anantomy is demonstrated, correct anatomical markers are visible, proper annotations are made, and correct orientation of the image is set prior to transmitting to the PACS.
• Confirms patient identity by verbally confirming patient name and social security number. Properly identifies patient images.
• Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that the patient understands what is to be done and what, if any, are potential adverse effects may occur. Screen all child­bearing age patients for pregnancy and document this appropriately. May be required by procedure or patient's condition to monitor vital signs, recognize allergic reactions and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation and/or summon emergency response team. Maintains BLS certification to initiate response system and assist in aide to patients when necessary.
• Trains students in radiographic technique including positioning, exposure factors, patient identification, and environmental factors which result in optimal imaging and meet the needs of the students during their rotation at this facility.
• Performs portable 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.
• Performs bone densitometry examinations utilizing the DEXA scanner. Determines technical factors, positioning of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of DEXA scanning. Positions the patient and equipment to obtain desire images.
• Flexible and knowledgeable in basic procedures in patient reception and CD burning processes.
• Participates in education and training opportunities related to the technical and clinical operation of diagnostic imaging equipment.
• Assists supervisor and radiologists in establishing protocols for routine examinations and makes independent judgements when necessary to deviate from standard procedures.
• Other duties as assigned.

Work Schedule: As Needed
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #:000000
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
EDRP Authorized: Contact the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more
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 Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.

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 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).]

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).

Grade Determinations:
GS 8: Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.

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.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of 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.

Preferred Experience: None

References: VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25 December 13, 2019.

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8.
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Physical Requirements: This position requires heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over, prolonged standing, repeated bending, transferring. stooping, stretching, walking, pushing, or pulling with and without assistance from another patient care provider or significant other. Reaching above the shoulder; use of fingers, good dexterity (both hands required). Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; distinguish basic colors; good hearing (aid permitted); good vision; speed in working and emotional stability. Must have the ability to Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Lead Apron) for periods of time. A health examination must be successfully complete prior to this assignment and periodically thereafter as required by the Employee Health Clinic policy.

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, resume, 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.