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General Radiologic Technology (R). 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. They prepare and administer contrast media and medications in accordance with State and Federal regulations. All DRTs must be knowledgeable in computerized [and digital radiography (CR/DR),] and picture archiving and communications systems (PACS).

CLINICAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
A. Performs the full spectrum of radiographic and fluoroscopic examinations. Receives patients, explains method of procedure and obtains signed consents for examinations with contrast medias. The incumbent is responsible for proper positioning of patients. Prior to exposure selects and sets technical factors. Sets up and adjust: accessory equipment required and makes exposures necessary for the requested procedures. Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist 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 media, a patient consent form must be obtained, when indicated.) These procedures require the use of needles, syringes, renografin, barium, and enema bags. These contrast materials and the radiographer must know their effects and adverse reactions. Improper use or administration of the contrast materials run the risk of patient mortality, therefore, it is essential that a thorough understanding of usage be possessed by those who prepare it. Must be continuously on the alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. Adverse reactions on the part of the patient require immediate attention so that harm does not come to the patient or equipment.
B. Maintains effective control of Radiology area by coordinating, planning, organizing and executing the work potential to expedite workflow patterns within the departments. Schedules patient for exams and maintains daily log of patients and procedures to be incorporated into statistical management workload profiles.
C. Performs Quality Control procedures, which may include (but not exclusively) the following:
1) Reject/repeat analysis
2) Image plate and cassette cleaning regiment
3) Grid alignment and artifacts
4) Automatic exposure control density and field sensitivity
5) Reproducibility and accuracy of timer and KVP stations
6) Lead apron & glove radiation verification these advances into daily practice where applicable.
D. Keeps abreast of technological advances in the fields of Radiology and incorporates these advances into daily practice where applicable.
E. Assists in training to aid in the clinical instruction of both first and second year radiology students on procedures, operation and/or maintenance of new and existing medical equipment.
F. Monitors and maximizes efficiency in the number of exams performed without compromising quality standards.
G. Effectively troubleshoots (at the user level) equipment used in diagnostic radiologic procedures and is able to make adjustments. Exercises extreme caution in the handling and safeguarding of all radiation producing equipment. Must recognize and report major equipment malfunctions within a timely manner to service representative.
H. Regularly inspects imaging plates and grids for effectiveness. Maintains a log for periodic cleaning and care of all equipment.
I. Assists in the supervision and training of rotating x-ray students and new technologists.
J. Responsible for explaining exams to competent patients in terms the patient will comprehend as well as understanding potential hazards that may occur as a result of the exam. May be required by procedure or patient's condition to monitor vital signs, recognize allergic reactions and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
K. Receives and interprets all radiology requests. Inputs pertinent radiology information into computer. Registers, requests, cancels and edits exams via the computer radiology information system (RIS).
L. Properly identifies patient films using identifiers, and L & R markers. This is essential so that mistaken identity of films to patients does not occur. The radiographer must be certain patient identification and the requests are identical.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 9:00AM - 5:30PM
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: 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.
• 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. *** Copy required with Application packet
• 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). ***Transcripts required with application packet.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-5
(1) Experience- None beyond the basic requirements.
(2) Assignments- DRTs at this grade 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. Some assignments at this level also include developmental duties involving more complex procedures designed to prepare the technician for promotion to higher grades in a functional area. Such duties are performed under closer supervision.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-6
(1) 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.
(2) Assignments- DRTs 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. DRTs must report major equipment malfunctions within a timely manner to service representatives and assist higher graded technologists in performing more complicated examinations.
(3) 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.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-7
(1) Experience- 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.
(2) Assignments- DRTs at this grade 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.
(3) 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.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-8 (FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL)
(1) Experience- At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.
(2) Assignments- DRTs 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.
(3) 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, Part II, Appendix G25, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard dated December 13, 2019. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office.

The Full Performance Level (FPL) of this vacancy is GS-8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-5 to GS-8.

Physical Requirements: Lifting (40 lbs. and under); Light Carrying (15 lbs. and under); Straight Pulling (up to 1 hour); Pushing (1 - 2 hours); Reaching above shoulder; Use of fingers; Both hands required; Walking (up to 3 hours); Standing (up to 3 hours); Repeated bending (up to 1 hour); Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; Near vision correctable at 13" to 16". The physical requirements for this position are in accordance with HRML No. 05-12-02, Employment of People with Disabilities, Including Under Schedule A, 5 CFR 213.3102(u).

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.