Duties
Functions/Duties:
The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the Imaging PACS System. Performance of daily QC check of system is required for imaging stability. Will report all changes and daily performance through PACS Coordinator.
Sets up the x-ray room. Under the direction of a supervising radiologist, may administer barium or iodinated contrast media orally, intravenously, or rectally. As required by procedure or patient's condition, monitors vital signs, notifying radiologist of significant changes.
If temporarily assigned to a day tour, provides clinical instruction for radiology technician students which includes positioning patients, measuring patient thickness to determine technical factors needed. Instructs students in the handling of seriously ill patients, checks images to ensure they are of good diagnostic quality. Evaluates the students' clinical ability periodically and grades their ability to determine their overall grades at the school.
Independently makes routine radiographic examinations of head, trunk, and extremities for diagnosis of illness or injury.
Performs operator preventive maintenance on x-ray equipment.
Reviews new developments in the field and recommends to the head of the section adoption of those which would improve the operation of Imaging Service.
If unable to contact Site Manager or Imaging Coordinator, the Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist is authorized to call in backup technologists, during off duty hours to perform emergency examinations they are unable to perform.
Knowledge of anatomy and physiology such as the location, appearance and function of the various major systems including the muscular, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, and urinary systems to interpret the examination request accurately; to understand the functioning and interrelationship of the various organs appearing on the film and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the radiograph for diagnostic use. Knowledge of the effects of common medical and surgical diseases upon radiographic examinations, for example: the more common abnormalities of veins and arteries, results of respiratory conditions such as emphysema, pneumonia and sinusitis, or peptic ulcer to recognize the conditions, assure that the radiographic studies properly illustrate the condition, and adjust positioning, technical factors or other variables to better illustrate them if necessary.
Knowledge of radiographic exposure techniques including use of formulae for determining technical factors, how to control density, contrast and distortion, and use of, collimators, filters, grids, and other accessories to produce radiographs of high diagnostic quality with a minimum of retakes.
Knowledge and skill in positioning patients for a wide variety of difficult radiographic examinations. For example, in a lumbar myelography, skill in securing the patient firmly to the table so that no movement will take place as the table is tilted, knowledge of the required posterior and lateral views, and skill in accurately positioning the patient to best show the desired areas of the spine, concentrating the contrast medium where needed.
Knowledge of all office procedures in the department such as scheduling, filing, and record keeping including but not limited to: entering Imaging procedure notes in CPRS, monitoring and posting 'no-show' lists in the scheduling and in the radiology package, and documenting and tracking STAT exams.
Knowledge of departmental policies and procedures involved in the care of any emergency that arises involving a patient.
Customer Services Requirements:
The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist is expected to display an attitude of caring and courtesy toward all veterans and their families by treating them as valued customers, greeting them with a smile, referring to them by name, responding quickly to their needs, maintaining confidentiality, and treating them always with dignity and respect. Each Imaging Service employee is expected to favorably represent this service through appropriate interpersonal relationships, flexibility and adaptability to change, and organizational stewardship.
Work Schedule: Mon-Fri 9am - 5:30pm
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
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
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.
- English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d).
- 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). (TRANSCRIPT REQUIRED) NOTE: Assignment to the clinical program director requires meeting JRCERT minimum educational standards as noted in the assignment description.
- 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. (PROVIDE A COPY OF CERTIFICATIONS)
- 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 U.S. Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field.
Grade Determinations:
GS 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. GS 07 equivalent experiences include: see above GS 06 KSAs. 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.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 08. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS 08.
References: VA Handbook 5005/123 PART II APPENDIX G58
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 08. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS 08.
Preferred Experience:
- One or more year's experience
- Performed routine x-rays, operates portable equipment and C-Arm fluoroscopic equipment
- Assisted radiologist in the less complex fluoroscopic and spot fill examinations.
- Able to provide clinical instruction to radiology tech students
Physical Requirements: Heavy Lifting (45 lbs and over); Heavy Carrying (45 lbs and over); Straight Pulling (up to 1 hour); Pushing (1 - 2 hours); Reaching above shoulder; Use of fingers; Both hands required; Walking (up to 3 hours); Standing (up to 3 hours); Repeated bending (up to 1 hour); Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; Near vision correctable at 13" to 16"; Hearing (aid permitted).
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Accreditation Information: 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) JRCERT: Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology or from other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE).
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.
NOTE: If your school has changed names, or is no longer in existence, you must provide this information in your 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.
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.
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.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
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 (VA)
- License
- Other Application Documentation
- ARRT
- Performance Appraisal
- Professional Certification
- Resume
- SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
- Transcript
Note: 38 U.S.C. 7412 waives the requirement to apply Veterans preference to external applicants for appointments made from this announcement during FY 24.
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.
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 02/28/2025 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12337257.
- 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.