Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography) Job in Spokane, WA

Vacancy No. CBSV-12733285-25-JHJ Department Veterans Health Administration
Salary $81,544.00 to $106,005.00 Grade 9 to 9
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 5/7/2025 Close Date 5/21/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Status Candidates
Locations:
Spokane, WA


Summary

This position is the designated General Radiologic Technologist and requires a current ARRT (R) and (CT) certification. The technologist will perform computerized tomography of the head, neck, spine, chest, and body with and without the use of contrast materials. The objective of the exams and procedures are to produce radiographic studies that are used in medical diagnosis and interpreted by Radiologists to locate injuries, foreign bodies, pathologic conditions, or lesions within the body.

This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

This announcement is for current permanent employees of the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center and its outlying clinics only.

Duties

Functions of this position include:

  • Maximize utilization of the CT Scanner. Identify scheduled procedures for the day then plan and coordinate activities around physician availability to maximize room effectiveness.
  • Properly identify patient images using computerized work list and left and right markers. This is essential so mistaken identity of images to patients does not occur.
  • Schedule exams in a manner to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. This requires the ability to prioritize scheduled patients as well as the ability to accommodate the emergency patient who may need immediate emergency intervention.
  • Communicate with radiologists to determine requirements of non-standard exams.
  • Determine technical factors, positioning, number, and thickness of scans to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scan while maintaining ALARA procedures. Notify the radiologist of scans that require immediate attention.
  • Perform neuroangiography, including spine, head, and neck studies utilizing highly sophisticated x-ray equipment such as computerized fluoroscopy, pressure injectors, parallelogram biplane imaging, and patient monitors to achieve diagnostic studies of the spinal canal.
  • Perform peripheral and visceral angiography of the abdominal systems and extremities including renal, hepatic, mesenteric, aortic, and femoral.
  • Utilize sterile technique which requires preparation of surgical trays, preparation of contrast, and use of catheters and guide wires. Assure all preventive measures have been taken to prevent contamination of the patient and minimize hazards associated with invasive procedures.
  • Adhere to hospital infection control and safety policies and techniques.
  • Assist the radiologist and anticipate needs of the exam and be aware of the patient's condition, sterile field, and catheter and guide wire sizes. Recognize patient reactions and anticipate technique factor difficulties.
  • Prepare contrast materials used in CT, angiography, and other exams. Improper use or administration of contrast materials run the risk of patient mortality; therefore, it is essential that a thorough understanding of the contrast material usage is possessed by those who prepare it.
  • Always be alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. Reactions on the part of the patient require immediate attention.
  • Must be certified to insert IV needles for administration of contrast material when necessary.
  • Always practice radiation safety to reduce exposure to patients, staff, and self.
  • Perform reconstructions of CT and angiographic studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure.
  • Maintain records and files of exams performed on patients. This includes the maintenance of electronic patient logbooks and registration and editing of patient exams in the computerized information system.
  • Record patient dose in electronic log and compile radiation dose data into a report for the Radiation Safety Meeting.
  • Explain exams to competent patients so they understand what is to be done as well as what hazards, if any, are possible.
  • Stock and inventory all CT and angiography supplies and related materials. Clean the CT suite with proper cleaning solutions to minimize any chance of hospital acquired infections.
  • Perform irregular hour emergency scans on call, 24hours per day. On Call requires the technologist be available within 30 minutes from receipt of call so proper and effective emergency care can be given to the patient.
  • Continually review new developments in the field of angiography and computerized tomography. Always alert to improve quality of exams utilizing any new technologies available.
  • Utilize the Picture Archiving Communication System (PACS) to store CT images, utilize tele radiography when needed.
  • May be required to assist with clerical duties of the Diagnostic Imaging Department in times of decreased patient volumes or staffing issues.
  • Start saline locks in patients receiving IV fluids or contrast material, maintain competencies on ISTAT machine to obtain creatinine results.
VA Careers - Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist: https://youtube.com/embed/I-4ku5UMvWM

Total-Rewards-of-an-Allied-Health-VA-Career-Brochure.pdf

Work Schedule: Mon - Fri, 8:00am to 4:30pm.
Relocation Incentive: Not Authorized.
Telework: Not available.
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 000000
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized.

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. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued dentification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment.
  • Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS.
a. 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.)

b. 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). 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.

c. 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 U.S. Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field.
  • Loss of Credential. An employee in this occupation who fails to obtain certification within two years, or who fails to maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation, which may also result in termination of employment.
d. 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 REQUIREMENTS.
a. Creditable Experience

(1) Knowledge of Current Radiologic Technology Practice. To be creditable, experience must have demonstrated possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics (also referred to as clinical competencies) associated with current radiologic technology practice. This may have been evidenced by the equivalent of one year of active practice, which is paid or non- paid employment as a DRT as defined by ARRT.
(2) Quality of Experience. Experience is only creditable if it was earned after completion of the basic certification requirements identified in paragraph 2b above. Experience as a graduate DRT is creditable provided the candidate functioned as a DRT and subsequently passed the certification examination.
(3) Part-Time Experience. Part-time experience as a DRT is creditable according to its relationship to the full-time workweek. For example, a DRT would receive one week of full- time credit for each two weeks of half-time work.

b. Specialized Assignments. Specialized areas of radiologic technology include general diagnostic radiologic technology (R), bone densitometry (BD), mammography (M), diagnostic ultrasound (S), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MR), interventional radiologic technology (IR), quality management (QM), picture archival communication system (PACS) technologist, MRI safety officer (MRSO), imaging administrator, clinical program director, and clinical instructor.
(1) 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 inter- relationship 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 aspects of interest to the physician. DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification.

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.

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.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. 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: 3 years CT experience preferred. Experience with 3D reconstruction and angiography.

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-9.

Physical Requirements: Moderate lifting and carrying (15-44 pounds); straight pulling (up to 1 hour); pushing (up to 1 hour); reaching above the shoulder; use of fingers; walking (up to 5 hours); standing (up to 5 hours); repeated bending (up to 2 hours); depth perception; ability to distinguish basic colors; and hearing (aid may be permitted).

Environmental Factors: Exposure to radiant energy and you must be able to work alone and closely with others.

Education

IMPORTANT: This position has a positive education or training requirement. An unofficial copy of college transcripts showing completion of the required degree or program is required and must include the name of the school, your name, date conferred or completed, and degree or certificate type.

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/.

Additional information

Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.

During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions.

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.

If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.

Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.

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.

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:

  • Professional Certification (ARRT) (R) and (CT)
  • Resume
  • SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
  • Transcript

For Adobe pdf forms:
  1. Save the file to your computer or phone, do not open it in a browser window.
  2. Once saved, open it using Adobe Acrobat or Reader (if you complete the form in a browser, the data is not saved to the form).
  3. Save the data in Adobe and sign the form. Close the file.
  4. If unable to sign, open in a web browser to sign and save. This will keep all the data and allow you to sign the form.
NOTE: If you are claiming Facility Employee Eligibility, you must submit a copy of your most recent (not more than 1 year old) Notification of Personnel Action, SF-50 (Not an award SF-50). Your SF-50 must include:
  • Position title, pay plan/series/grade
  • Tenure code
  • Position Occupied - type of appointment (Competitive or Excepted)
Within Grade Increase, General Adjustments, or Promotion SF-50's are best, Award SF-50's do not include this pertinent information.

The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please 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
  • License
  • Professional Certification (ARRT) (R) and (CT)
  • Other (2)
  • Other (3)
  • Performance Appraisal
  • Professional Certification
  • Resume
  • 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 05/21/2025 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12733285.

  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.

Agency contact information

Joe Julkowski
Address
Mann-Grandstaff Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center
4815 North Assembly Street
Spokane, WA 99205
US

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.