Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist-Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR), organizationally referred to as the Magnetic Resonance Imager operates diagnostic MRI scanning equipment to produce cross sectional and two/three dimensional pictures of internal organs and body structures used to diagnose diseases and other medical conditions. This announcement will be opened until filled. The first cut off date is 10/24/2022. Additional applications will be referred as needed. 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). 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: GS-9 Diagnostic 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 described at that level. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist. 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. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): i. *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. ii. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. iii. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. iv. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. v. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions.vi. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. Preferred Experience: Customer Service Ability to work independently MRI experience for 3 years Knowledge of healthcare systems Knowledge of PACS system References: VA Handbook 5005/119 Part II Appendix G25 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard GS-0647 Veterans Health Administration December 13, 2019 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9. Physical Requirements: Heavy lifting (45 pounds and over); Pulling hand over hand (1 hour); Pushing (2 hours); Reaching above shoulder, Use of fingers, Both hands required; Walking and Standing (up to 3 hours); Repeated bending ( 1 hour); Both legs required; Near vision correctable to 13" to 16" to Jaeger 1 to 4; Hearing (aid may be permitted) ["A Recruitment Incentive may be authorized for a Highly Qualified Individual The Magnetic Resonance Image coordinates a variety of technical procedures that require independent judgement, ingenuity, and initiative in the application of non-ionizing high frequency ultrasonic waves to humans for diagnosis of disease in the clinic or on the wards. The incumbent is required to perform magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). The technologist will be responsible for clinical, research and educational duties. He/she will be involved in all aspects of MRI/MRS including: (1) performance of clinical diagnostic MRI examinations, (2) performance of spectroscopic scope and imaging research, including active participation in the design and evaluation of new spectroscopic and imaging methods, (3) training of MRI/MRS principles and procedures to staff and visiting technologists from other Veteran Affairs Centers. While working in each area of Radiology Service, the employee will participate in all aspects of the mission of the medical center, including clinical service, education and research, as needed. The employee will also assist the management team with the collection of statistical data needed to monitor and improve the clinical service. Function as an expert regarding the software and hardware capabilities in performance of the instrument, advise the radiologist on what pulse sequences are available, and what selection of acquisitions parameters are necessary to produce optimum images and generate efficiency in the data collection. Maintains a log book of protocols in data collection. Maintains a log book of protocols for frequently performed types of examinations, including positioning, acquisitions parameters, and orientation of slices. Interviews each patient for the examination to determine if the patient has contraindication for MRI or MRS, such as a cardiac pacemaker, ferrous implant, intracranial. Advises the radiologist of examinations' progress and provides them a preliminary diagnostic evaluation. Notifies radiologist of significant scans requiring their immediate attention and visualization while patients are undergoing examinations. Keeps abreast of progress and safety of patients being prepared for examination with contrast agents, patients being studied and patients returning to their own professional care. Maintains MRI suites in a clean and sanitary condition. Maintains supplies, reorders supply when necessary and determines the need for new or different supplies. Maintains appropriate paperwork for any contractual obligations and sharing agreements. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 3:30pm-12:00am, rotating on-call and holidays Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]
About Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration
Providing Health Care for Veterans: The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system, providing care at 1,255 health care facilities, including 170 medical centers and 1,074 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics), serving 9 million enrolled Veterans each year.