Summary

The fully developed advanced DRT-Interventional Radiology Technologist (IR) will assist the interventional radiologist in the performance of routine to complex IR procedures. The incumbent at this level assists with training of new employees under supervision of Radiologists. These exams are minimally invasive procedures using medical imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy, computed tomography, or ultrasound equipment.

The public

U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Clarification from the agency

*** If you ARE A CURRENT federal employee, please apply to vacancy CBSU-12280968-24-LF open to current federal employees. ***

Duties

Include but are not limited to:

The IR technologist is responsible for assisting the IR provider in performing interventional, therapeutic, and diagnostic angiography procedures. Exams are often performed with the use of contrast materials and sterile techniques.
Confers with radiologists or other healthcare professionals to determine material and equipment requirement of indicated procedures. Determines technical factors, positioning, etc., to produce high quality diagnostic and/or therapeutic studies. Advises radiologists or referring physicians of issues with a patient requiring their immediate attention. Works closely with Imaging Nursing staff to achieve common objectives.
Performs limited neurological procedures, including vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty, lumbar puncture, and myelogram. This is accomplished using highly sophisticated x-ray equipment such as pressure injector, biplane imaging, and 3D reconstruction and 3D needle guidance.
Performs peripheral and visceral angiography of the thorax, abdominal systems, and extremities. The exams include but are not limited to: TACE, PAE, UFE, other abdominal embolization, IVC filter placement, IVC filter removal, foreign body retrieval, fistulagram, angioplasty, stent placement, PE thrombectomy, peripheral thrombectomy, tunneled central line placement, mediport placement, arteriogram, and venogram. These involve the use of highly sophisticated x-ray equipment such as pressure injectors, biplane imaging, ICE ultrasound, intervascular ultrasound, etc. Such procedures may be performed in the angiography suite, cardiac cath lab, EP lab, or operating room. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic or therapeutic studies of the vascular systems.
Performs non-vascular diagnostic and therapeutic exams, these include but are not limited to: sinogram, nephrostomy catheter placement, biliary stent placement, gastrostomy tube placement, imaging guided biopsy, fluid aspiration, drainage catheter placement, catheter change and removal. Such procedures may utilize complex fluoroscopy setup to simple consult and catheter removal in a non-imaging exam room.
Performs most exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques. This requires "scrub-in technique," preparation of surgical trays, preparation of contrast and other medications, supplying of needles, catheters, and guide wires. Adheres to hospital infection control and safety policies/techniques with emphasis on sterile technique; the storage of sterile supplies; the disposal of body fluids, chemotherapy agents, and sharps, proper attire and hand washing practices.
Confers with radiologists to determine material and equipment requirement of pending procedure. Must anticipate and assist the needs of the radiologists and the performance of the exam. Must be continuously on the alert for the patient's condition, sterile field, catheter and guide wire sizes and configurations, etc. The alertness of the individual is essential to prevent contamination, recognize patient reactions, anticipate technique factor difficulties, etc.
Prepares contrast materials. These contrast materials are used in the exams performed in the special procedure area and the technologist must know the effects and reactions to the contrast. 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 use is possessed by those who prepare it. In addition, technologist must be continuously alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. Patient reactions require immediate attention so that harm does not come to the patient or equipment. Is certified to insert IV needles for administration of contrast material when necessary.
Practices radiation safety to reduce exposure to patients, staff, and self. This is achieved by the use of lead aprons, lead glasses, lead lined walls, and collimation. Film badges are worn by technologists in compliance with radiation regulations. The incumbent must be aware of and practice safety policies/procedures of the Medical Center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm; Participates in "on-call" rotation as assigned. This involves performing emergency Angio Special Procedures for patients with the interventional radiologist. This requires the technician to verbally respond within 15 minutes from receipt of call so that proper and effective emergency care can be given to the patient. "On-call" will be performed on a rotational basis and technologist is required to report to hospital within one hour of notification.
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 554-52735-A
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): 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.
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

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: 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). 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.]

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).]

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 for GS-09: For assignments above full performance lever, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity, and range of variety; these duties must be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. 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. Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment, the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities at this level.

Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-08), directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. KSAs at the GS-08 level are:
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, and volunteers
f. Knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy; recognize unusual images and determine proper positioning to best determine areas of interest.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to the experience listed above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
a. Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures;
b. Skill to demonstrate appropriate techniques to gather relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers;
c. Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure;
d. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography;
e. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions; and
f. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients.

Preferred Experience: Preferred 2 years of lnterventional Radiology experience.

References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G25 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office.

Physical Requirements: Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.

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

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.

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.

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:

Professional Certification
Resume
Transcript

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)
10-2850C
Professional Certification
Proof of Marriage Status
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.

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 12/31/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12280967.

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.

Agency contact information

Luis Fuentes Jr.

Phone

801-582-1565 X4405

Email

Luis.Fuentes2@va.gov

Address

Eastern Colorado HCS Denver
13611 E. Colfax Ave
Aurora, CO 80045
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 U SAJobs 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.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Interventional Radiology Job in Aurora, CO