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), and 7407(d).
- Education Requirement: You must have completed 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).
- Certification: You must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R).
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: 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-8
Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Examples of experience may include, but is not limited to the following: Possesses knowledge of anatomy and positioning, patient safety procedures; performs radiographic procedures using the proper exposure techniques, including manual and photo timed exposures; explain exams to patient so that the patient understands what is to be done; perform radiographic exams with portable units as well as stationary radiographic units; prepare contrast material under the direction of the radiologist; and practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patient, staff and self.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs:
- 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.
Preferred Experience: 2 Years Experience
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 a GS-8.
Physical Requirements: The work involves normal to long periods of standing, walking, crouching. 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 to are close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. There will be above average use of computer equipment, with such equipment as mouse, keyboard, and monitor which involves long periods of sitting.