Summary
This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program. You must meet specific individual eligibility requirements in accordance with VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment. Program Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) and eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after complete review of the EDRP application.
This job is open to
Clarification from the agency
This job is open to current permanent Department of Veteran Affairs employees, current permanent Federal employees of other agencies and all US Citizens.
Duties
Duties include, but are not limited to:
- Performs all Computerized Tomography and general Radiography protocols with and without the use of contrast materials
- Advises Radiologists or referring physicians of examination results when necessary; notifies them of scans requiring their immediate attention
- Ensures quality and quantity of radiographic exams are performed in order to assure a high level or acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs
- Explains 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
- Adheres to hospital infection control and safety policies/techniques with emphasis on sterile technique; the storage of sterile supplies; the disposal of body fluids and 'sharps'; proper attire; hand washing practices; and continuing education. Maintains sterility of power injector and ensures that all air has been removed prior to the injection
- Works with the Radiologist as a member of the radiographic team; assists and anticipates the needs of the Radiologists and the performance of the exam
- Prepares contrast materials: When these contrast materials are used /performed the technologist must know the effects and reactions to the contrast
- Performs image reconstructions on advanced workstations as directed by the Radiologist, or as part of a given study
- Troubleshoots equipment used in diagnostic radiologic procedures and is able to make minor repairs and or adjustments
- Must be proficient with the department's computerized Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS)
- Other duties as assigned
Work Schedule: 10:00 a.m. - 06:30 p.m. Monday - Friday with rotating weekends and holidays
EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact the Compensation Center of Excellence at VISN10HREDRPSLRP@va.gov for questions/assistance. Learn more
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 91768-0
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
Requirements
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
This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT and will remain open until July 23, 2024. The first list of eligible applicants will be pulled for referral on 5/6/2024 and then every other Wednesday until the closing date of the job posting or as additional vacancies occur on an as-needed basis until positions are filled.
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: Be a citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3g.)
- 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.] *Note you must provide a copy of your current, active certification in your application packet for consideration.
- 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).] *Note you must provide a copy of your transcript(s) in your application packet for consideration.
- [NOTE: Assignment to the clinical program director requires meeting JRCERT minimum educational standards as noted in the assignment description.]
- Grandfathering Provision: All persons employed in VHA as a DRT on the effective date of this qualification standard are considered to have met all qualification requirements for the title, series and grade held, including positive education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the DRT occupation.
- Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019
- English Language Proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d).
Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must also be met.
GS-9: Experience: You must have at least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, GS-8, directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. This includes being qualified to independently provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services. Examples include, but is not limited, to the following: checking system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines; having knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed; monitoring patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keeping the radiologist informed; using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers; and, having knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest.
In addition to the above, you must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*):
- *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures.
- Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers.
- *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure.
- Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography.
- Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions.
- Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients.
Computed Tomography (CT): This specialty modality requires specific knowledge of cross-sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral, and/or, multi-slice computer tomography, inclusive of 3-D reconstruction scans, including drainages, biopsies, and peripheral vascular examinations. The technologist requires specific knowledge and training in the location, appearance, and function of the various major and minor systems susceptible to radiological illumination; to interpret the examination request accurately; to understand the functioning and interrelationship of the various organs; to use the methods and techniques which will identify organs appearing on the digital display monitor, or on film, and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the image and/or scan for diagnostic use and to emphasize the aspect of interest to the physician. (CT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT (CT) certification.)
References: VA Handbook 5005/119, Part 2, Appendix G25
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9.
Physical Requirements: The work requires long periods of standing and walking. There is some bending and carrying of moderately heavy articles. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50lbs. Patient mental status and physical habitus will require the incumbent to be able to assist patients during transfer that is required of examinations. Specific vision abilities required by this job function include but not limited are close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
Benefits
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How You Will Be Evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
- Current permanent VA employees of the facility
- All other VA employees
- All other applicants
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.
Required Documents
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
- American Registry of Radiologic Technology, AART RT(R)(CT) Certification
- Resume
- Transcript
- *Most recent 2024 SF-50's are required for current Federal employees. (Additional SF-50's may be submitted if needed)
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify)
- Cover Letter
- License
- American Registry of Radiologic Technology, AART RT(R)(CT) Certification
- Other (2)
- Performance Appraisal
- Professional Certification
- Resume
- Separation Notice (RIF)
- SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
- Transcript
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from
schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT and will remain open until July 23, 2024. The first list of eligible applicants will be pulled for referral on 5/6/2024 and then every other Wednesday until the closing date of the job posting or as additional vacancies occur on an as-needed basis until positions are filled.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 07/23/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12391371.
- To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
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