Clarification from the agency

Current, permanent Department of Veterans Affairs Employees Only (ensure you submit appropriate SF-50 per the required documents section to receive consideration) NOTE: The 2-page Resume requirement does not apply to this position. For more information, refer to Required Documents below.

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Performs a wide variety of diagnostic radiography exams under the direction of a physician. Operates all radiographic equipment including general diagnostic, portable, fluoroscopic, and PACS related equipment as part of the diagnostic plan for patients in the Imaging Service. Supports Radiologists and/or other medical officers, to produce high quality images for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of medical conditions.

The duties and responsibilities of the DRT include but are not limited to the following:

• Performs routine to moderately complex radiographic examination procedures. These exams are achieved by using diagnostic x-ray equipment such as fluoroscopic units, the chest unit and general diagnostic units and portable units.
• Assists radiologists in the less complex fluoroscopic examinations.
• 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. These procedures require the use of needles, syringes, renografin, barium, enema bags and drinking cups.
• Performs 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. Uses portable x-ray Units and a mobile intensifier unit that is located in Surgery to achieve these exams. Upon request, operates the digital fluoroscopy unit in the endoscopy suite.
• Secures the confidence and cooperation of patients during procedures. Explains procedures and positions to patients for desired results. Also, cushions and shields patients as appropriate. Varies procedures or positions to adjust for patients' medical conditions. Administers contrast materials orally, by enema, or, in some circumstances, intravenously under close supervision.
• Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. Edits and when necessary registers patients in the computerized Radiology Information System (RIS) as well as the work list management portion of the HIS-RIS interface.
• Evaluates the nature of critical and emergency procedures and performs triage to prioritize. Notifies radiologist if exam requires immediate attention.
• Responsible to the radiologists and supervisor for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed in order to assure a high level of acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs.
• Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patient, staff, and self. This is achieved by the use of lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls, and collimation. The technicians to assure compliance to radiation regulations wear film badges. The incumbent must also be aware of and practice the safety policies/procedures of the medical center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed.

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-08. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-05 to GS-08.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm; additional coverage for weekends, off-hours or holidays may be required
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 92081-A (Full Performance Level of GS-8)
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

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.
• Loss of Credential. An employee in this occupation who fails to obtain certification within two years, or who fails to maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation, which may also result in termination of employment.

As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 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

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: 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).
• English Language Proficiency: Must be proficient in spoken and written English.

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).

Exception for Non-Certified, Entry Level Candidates.

• Non-certified DRTs who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for ARRT (R) certification may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate DRT under the authority of 38 U.S.C. § 7405(c)(2)(B). The appointing official may waive the requirement of certification for a period not to exceed two years for a DRT that provides care under the supervision of a certified DRT at or above the full performance level. This exception only applies at the GS-5 entry level technician. For grade levels above the entry level, the candidate must be certified. Temporary appointments of non-certified DRTs may not be extended beyond two years or converted to a new temporary appointment.

Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates:

Diagnostic Radiologic Technician, GS-0647-05

1. Experience or Education: None beyond the basic requirements.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-0647-06

1. Experience or Education: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-05) 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.

• Knowledge of basic technique standards for minimum radiographic exposure.
• Knowledge of anatomy and positioning.
• Knowledge of radiographic producing equipment
• Ability to learn basic computer functions.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-0647-07

1. Experience or Education: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-06) 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.

• Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system.
• Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study.
• 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.
• Knowledge of computed radiography, CR readers and Digital Imaging systems.
• Knowledge of PACS and basic computer skills.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-0647-08

1. Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-07) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.

• Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines.
• Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed.
• Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results.
• Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed.
• Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers.
• 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-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: The work requires extensive walking, primarily between workstations and divisions within the Radiology Department and remote service locations. There may be extended periods of time using and sitting in front of computers. There may be periods when bending and kneeling may be required and/or extended periods of time while working in a cold computer room. Heavy lifting (45 lbs. and over) with or without assistance and the aid of mechanical lift equipment; moderate )lifting (15 -44 lbs.); light lifting (under 15 lbs.); moderate carrying (] 5 - 44 lbs.), light carrying (under 15 lbs.); straight pu11ing; pulling hand over hand; pushing; reaching above shoulders; use of fingers; walking; standing; kneeling; repeated bending; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; specific visual requirement; ability to visualize X-rays clearly; ability to distinguish basic colors; ability to distinguish shades of coolers; hearing (aid permitted). Duties may require lifting and carrying computer equipment (approximately 45 lbs.) such as monitors, Computer Processing Units (CPUs), and Utility Power System (UPS) products. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.

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.

You must ensure all duties are detailed in your resume and it clearly shows how you meet the KSA's of the position. We cannot make any assumption on duties performed or level of experience based on a job title. All duties must be described under each job entry with the beginning and ending dates of employment (month and year and hours worked per week). If we are unable to determine your qualifications based on the application materials submitted we are unable to refer you for consideration.

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.

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete application package which includes:

1. Resume (must include the following information):

• Job Title
• Duties (be as detailed as possible)
• Month and year start/end dates (e.g. June 2024 to April 2025)
• Full-time or part-time (include hours worked per week)

NOTE: Do not include a photograph or video of yourself, or any sensitive information (age, date of birth, marital status, protected health information, religious affiliation, social security number, etc.) on your resume or cover letter. Including any of this information may result in an ineligibility rating.

2. Transcript (must include the following information):

• Your Name
• Name of the college or university
• Full address of the college or university
• Degree Received
• Date Conferred

REMINDER: A transcript, either official or unofficial, must be submitted with your application for ALL degrees. A copy of your certificate/degree or screenshot of your current classes are not a replacement of your transcript and they will not be used in the qualifying process.

3. Certification/License (must include the following information):

• Name on License
• Issuing state or territory
• Complete license number
• Expiration date