Diag Rad Tech (Compt Tom) Job in Fort Harrison, MT

Vacancy No. CBSU-12594618-25-RR Department Veterans Health Administration
Salary $71,865.00 to $93,423.00 Grade 9 to 9
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 10/30/2024 Close Date 12/30/2024
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Fort Harrison, MT


Summary

The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (CT) at the Fort Harrison VA Medical Center independently performs complex diagnostic Computerized Axial Tomography scans and radiographic imaging procedures for both inpatients and outpatients under the supervision of the radiologist. These exams are
performed with and without the use of contrast agents. Operates imaging equipment (mobile and fixed), assists the radiologist and other providers during fluoroscopic procedures.

This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

Announcement is open to the public. All VA Montana Health Care System Employees, VA Employees Nationwide, and all other Federal Employees should apply to CBSU-12594617-25-RR

Duties

VA Careers - Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist: https://youtube.com/embed/I-4ku5UMvWM
Total-Rewards-of-an-Allied-Health-VA-Career-Brochure.pdf

Performs CT examinations of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and extremities. Executes, liver, pancreatic, lung nodule, and pulmonary embolus (PE) protocols. Performs multifaceted CTA exams of the heart, brain, pulmonary arteries, and extremities with multiplanar, 3D, and MIP (Maximum Intensity Projection) reconstructions. The technologist uses cross-sectional anatomy in relation to the soft tissues and vessels of the human body to produce complex CT studies. The technologist executes reconstructions of raw data associated with the CT Scan examinations. The technologist performs image acquisition in Digital Radiography (DR) and utilizes the Picture Archiving and Communications Systems (PACS). Employees may also be assigned to team leader, instructional, or supervisory positions at this level. They also work independently on evenings, nights, and weekend tours of duty as scheduled and/or when on call.

a. Applies radiation protection standards and properly shielding techniques for personnel and patients. Adjusts and adapts equipment use or procedures and techniques in the event of mechanical failures and/or software malfunctions. Uses standard troubleshooting techniques to resolve equipment issues.

b. Recognizes standard cross-sectional anatomy. Differentiates between normal physiology or variants versus abnormal pathology or anatomical variations. Performs additional scans/images as required to for evaluation by the radiologist.

c. Applies basic psychology skills to manage patients in all phases of general diagnostic/CT including critical care, trauma, apprehensive, and disoriented patients. Engages with family members in a positive, respectful manner. Interfaces with all staff members always
demonstrating professionalism and mutual respect. Uses critical thinking skills and effective triage to properly manage multiple urgent/STAT exams.

d. Performs basic first-aid procedures for seizures, cardiac arrest, anaphylactic shock, and contrast reactions. Initiates and/or participates in Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) in keeping with Basic Life Support (BLS) training. Performs aseptic and/or sterile procedure fields
assisting the radiologist as directed. Performs required decontamination procedures in the event of a contaminated field, room, and/or an isolation patient.

e. Determines the need to call for repair and or/maintenance of equipment, enters the required work order, and notifies the Imaging Administrator, Lead Technologist, or designee.

f. Apply general diagnostic/CT technical exposure factors and programming. Assess image quality by evaluating density, contrast, distortion/artifacts, and other exposure factors.

g. Performs computer functions as related to general diagnostic and CT scanning, disc storage and use, maintenance of workstation computer files, machine warm up and calibration procedures, limited preventive maintenance to general diagnostic/CT scanning unit and
computer components for emergency trouble shooting.

h. Utilizes the Radiology Information Systems (RIS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) applications. Protects computer data and patient sensitive information from unauthorized users. Protects access codes for any medical center computer programs. Executes basic
computer operations including limited programming functions, keyboard inputs, purpose and functions, or computer programs needed to carry out other job duties.

i. Maintains current knowledge of new developments in CT and general diagnostic imaging.

j. Practices radiation safety and ALARA principles to protect patients, staff, and self. The incumbent adheres to all applicable safety policies and procedures.

k. Participates in quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) activities as directed.

l. Properly identifies patients by adhering to medical center policies and selecting correct patient identifiers in the Picture Archiving Computer System (PACS).

m. Screens patients in advance for contraindications per CT and/or Diagnostic Imaging policies as applicable. Responsible for explaining the procedure to patient, verifying that the patient understands the exam, and any risks involved with the exam/procedure.

n. Schedules exams to optimize throughput while maintaining flexibility to allow for emergency cases. Performs correct prioritization for scheduled patients and accommodates emergency patients requiring immediate care.

o. Prepares contrast materials which are used in CT and general diagnostic studies. Continuously monitors the patient's condition for adverse reactions to contrast media. Recognizes patient reactions which require immediate attention to prevent harm to the patient.




Work Schedule: Variable
Functional Statement #: 436-60139-A

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

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

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.
  • 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 75, 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 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), and 7407(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).

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. For employees who do not meet all of the basic requirements in this standard, but who met the qualifications applicable to the position at the time they were appointed to it, the following provisions apply:

(1) DRTs that require a certification, may be reassigned, promoted up to and including the full performance (journeyman) level, or changed to lower grade within the occupation, but may not be promoted beyond the journey level or placed in supervisory or managerial positions.
(2) DRTs that require a certification only at higher grade levels must meet the certification requirement before they can be promoted to those higher grade levels.
(3) DRTs who are appointed on a temporary basis prior to the effective date of the qualification standard may not have their temporary appointment extended or be reappointed, on a temporary or permanent basis, until they fully meet the basic requirements of the standard.
(4) DRTs initially grandfathered into this occupation, who subsequently obtain additional education and/or certification that meet all of the basic requirements of this qualification standard must maintain the required credentials as a condition of employment in the occupation.
(5) Employees who are retained as a DRT under this provision and subsequently leave the occupation lose protected status and must meet the full VA qualification standard requirements in effect at the time of reentry as a DRT. NOTE: Each uncertified VHA DRT who was permanently employed on June 21, 1986, and whose competence in the safe administration of ionizing radiation was affirmed, in writing, by a VA licensed physician not later than January 1, 1987, is considered fully qualified. These employees may be promoted, changed to lower grade, or reassigned within the GS-0647 occupational series. Any employee initially retained in this manner who leaves this job series loses protected status and must meet the full requirements in effect at the time of reentry.

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 Technologist, GS-9
Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.
Assignments. For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), and range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. DRTs at this grade level may be appointed to one of the following assignments:
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:
  1. Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures.
  2. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers.
  3. Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure.
  4. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography.
  5. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions.
  6. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients.
References: VA Handbook 5005/119 Part II Appendix G25 12/2019,

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-09.

Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work includes: Heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds; pushing up to 4 hours; reaching above shoulder; use of fingers, good dexterity (both hands required); prolonged walking, prolonged standing; repeated bending; stooping; stretching; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20; ability to distinguish basic colors; hearing (aid permitted); speed in working; pulling without assistance from another patient care provider or significant other and emotional stability. Must have the ability to stand and work while wearing a lead apron for possibly long periods of time.

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: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.

Additional information

This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.

This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.

VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.

Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.

If you are unable to apply online or need to fax a document you do not have in electronic form, view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.

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.

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.

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:

  • Resume


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), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.

  • Cover Letter
  • DD-214/ Statement of Service
  • Disability Letter (Schedule A)
  • Disability Letter (VA)
  • License
  • PCS Orders
  • Performance Appraisal
  • Professional Certification
  • Resume
  • Separation Notice (RIF)
  • SF-15
  • 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

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 12/30/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12594618.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.

Agency contact information

VISN 19 HR Contact Center
Address
Montana VA Health Care System
3687 Veterans Drive
Fort Harrison, MT 59636
US
Learn more about this agency

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.


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.