Clarification from the agency

U. S. Citizens Note: due to a critical staffing shortage, 38 U.S.C 7412 waives the requirement to apply Veterans preference to ALL external applicants for this job announcement. NOTE: The 2-page Resume requirement does not apply to this position. For more information, refer to Required Documents below.

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Major duties include, but are not limited to:

• Performs proper procedures to obtain, transmit and store radiographic images within Picture Achieving & Communication System (PACS). Has knowledge and practices proper technique in the utilization, cleaning and upkeep of image receptors such as Computed Radiography (CR) and Digital Radiology (DR) cassettes to include CR readers.
• Performs radiographic procedures using the proper exposure techniques, including manual and photo timed exposures. These exams are performed using proper exposure techniques, wall and table buckies, collimators, filters grids, and other technical aids to produce radiographs of diagnostic quality with the minimum of retakes.
• Properly identifies the patient and matches patient with order and image. Uses left and right markers, including other needed markers. Proper marking of the images is essential so that mistaken identity does not occur.
• Responsible to explain exams to patient so that the patient understands what is to be done, allowing patients to ask questions prior to exam, as well as any risks. May be required by procedure or patient's condition to monitor vital signs, recognize allergic reactions and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
• Perform radiographic exams with portable units as well as stationary radiographic units.
• Assists radiologists in fluoroscopic examinations. Has knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous skills and universal precautions.
• Prepare contrast material under the direction of the radiologist for the purpose of performing fluoroscopy or radiographic exams requiring injectable solutions such as IVP, cystogram, cholangiograms, fistulagrams and arthrography and for the purpose of performing oral or rectal exams of the GI tract. In the case of injected media, an informed consent will be required when indicated. These procedures require the use of needles, syringes, gastrografin, barium and enema bags. The radiographer must know the effects of all medications administration and adverse reactions. Improper use or administration of usage is possessed by those who prepare it. Must be continuously on the alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. Adverse reaction on the part of the patient require immediate attention so that harm does not come to the patient or equipment.
• Provide technical oversight, problem solving and task adaptability in attaining quality images.
• Participate in quality assurance activities as directed.
• Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients within Computerized Patient Record System. Edits, and when necessary, registers patients in the computerized radiology information system as well as the work list management portion of the hospital information system and interface. Capable in computer language and functioning within the PACS system.
• Responsible for cleanliness and stocking adequate levels of supplies in assigned areas. Able to recognize and report malfunctioning or non-operating equipment and systems to the supervisor in a timely manner. Responsible to properly dispose of expired supplies.
• May be cross trained in obtaining bone density studies and/or other modalities as necessary.
• Ability check systems for operation and assess acceptable performance passed on established guidelines. Has knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm. May be required to be on-call, outside of tour of duty hours.
Telework: Not available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 92001-A

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.
• Subject to background/security investigation.
• Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued dentification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment.
• Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
• Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.

As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:

• your performance and conduct;
• the needs and interests of the agency;
• whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
• whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

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).
• 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).
  • Credentialing Standards: Public Law 97-35, the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 5, Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs and the Credentialing of Radiographic Personnel. Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field.
• English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d).

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: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist GS-08

Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Examples of clinical competencies include, but are not limited to: performing examinations which are routine and standardized in nature, explain exams to patients in terms they can understand as well as potential hazards, troubleshoot equipment used for diagnostic radiology and exercise extreme caution in the handling and safeguarding of all radiation producing equipment, may be qualified to provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology.

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:
(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.

Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-08.

Physical Requirements: The individual must have the physical ability to perform job-related duties which require heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over, standing up to 6 hours, wearing PPE (Lead Apron) up to 6 hours, bending, transferring. stooping, stretching, walking, pushing, or pulling without assistance from another patient care provider or significant other.

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.