Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI) Job in West Palm Beach, FL

Vacancy No. CBTC-12502905-24-JlC Department Veterans Health Administration
Salary $68,442.00 to $83,841.00 Grade 9 to 9
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 8/5/2024 Close Date 12/31/2024
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
West Palm Beach, FL


Summary

The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI) position is assigned to the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System, Imaging Service. Technicians at this level are fully credentialed and functional as an MRI technologist with varying assignments and can perform routine to complex and specialized studies, with and without administration of contrast materials, as prescribed by practitioners.

This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

This vacancy announcement is opened to US Citizens. This is an Open Continuous Announcement, meaning it will remain opened until filled, OR 12/31/2024, which ever is first.

Duties

The practitioner must have specific specialized knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy and how it relates to the soft tissues and vessels of the human body. The technologist must also have a specialized knowledge in the radiofrequency coils (transmit/receive) required for each specific anatomical area to be imaged. The incumbent requires knowledge of contrast media, power injectors, and picture archiving and communication systems (PACS).

Duties of the DRT (MRI) Technologist include, but not limited to the following:

  • Maintains current Basic Life Support (BLS) and American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) credentialing as required. Maintains current Talent Management System (TMS) training as required.
  • Accurately operates a wide variety of imaging equipment, to obtain examinations of acceptable quality using utilizing the standardized amount of specific absorption rate and/or B1 + RMS to obtain quality imaging for diagnosis and localization purposes.
  • Knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy and physiology including location, appearance, and functioning of the major and minor systems. Knowledge of changes to systems and organs caused by medical and surgical diseases.
  • Performs all aspects of MRI imaging of spine, head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, upper extremities, lower extremities utilizing specialized sequences to visualize the anatomy and pathology necessary for diagnosis.
  • Performs advanced level aspects of MRI imaging, such as MR Breast, MR Cardiac, and MR Functional Neuro studies utilizing specialized sequences to visualize the anatomy and pathology necessary for diagnosis.
  • Performs MRI imaging of the peripheral and visceral vessels through MR Angiography of the abdominal systems and extremities.
  • Maintains competence in venipuncture and refer to the Imaging Service procedure manual for guidelines on Administration of Contrast Media After-Hours, Guidelines for Power Injection of Contrast Media, Use of Gadolinium within the MRI Section and policy for use of Contrast Media.
  • Prepares contrast materials that are used in MRI under the direction of the radiologist.
  • Follows protocol regarding blood collection for ISTAT results.
  • Receives and interprets all radiology requests for accuracy, appropriateness, date desired and maintains thorough knowledge of the ordering process in CPRS.
  • Performs and completes imaging studies within the established guidelines for stat, preop, urgent and routine exams.
  • Independently identifies (through pending list) active MRI exams: stat, ER, and inpatient orders.
  • Responsible for operating and maximizing utilization of all equipment.
  • Works with staff and MRI schedule to assure timely accomplishment of assigned workload, making day-to-day adjustments.
  • Maintains adequate supplies and pharmaceuticals used in the department. Responsible for stocking and inventory of all supplies.
  • Uses independent judgment and possesses the ability to vary exams or treatment procedures as needed to compensate for patients' individual medical conditions and body habitus.
  • Responsible for minor equipment adjustments, repairs and exercises care in the handling and safeguarding of all equipment.
  • Practices the safety policies and procedures of The Medical Center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed.
  • Maintains competency and thorough knowledge of the processes for Critical, Semi-Critical, and Non-Critical Reusable Medical Equipment (RME) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's).
  • Continually reviews new developments and standards in the field of Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
  • Required to work in an after hour on-call standby status to perform emergency scans.
Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 2:30 pm to 11:00 pm
Telework: Not suitable for telework
Virtual: This is not a virtual position
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required


****OCHCO Bulletin Subject: Annual Determination of Staffing Shortages, dated September 30, 2022. Although hybrid title 38 occupations follow title 5 Veterans' preference rules, as required by the Merit Systems Protection Board (Graves v. VA, 117 M.S.P.R. 697 (2012)), 38 U.S.C. § 7412 waives the requirement to apply Veterans' preference to external applicants for appointments made during the fiscal year to hybrid title 38 occupations among those reported to have the largest staffing shortages.

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.
  • 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), and 7407(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) is required.
  • NOTE: A transcript from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions must be submitted with your application.

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.
  • NOTE: You must submit a copy of your certification(s) with your application.


GRADE REQUIREMENT for Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-9

Experience: Candidates must have 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 following clinical competencies:
  • 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.


Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to the experience listed above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*):
  • *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures.
  • Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers.
  • *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure.
  • Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography.
  • Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions.
  • Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR). This specialty modality requires additional knowledge of superconducting magnets, the physics of superconducting magnets, and how they relate to the human anatomy in medical imaging. The technologist must be educated in the safety factors governing a magnetic environment that patients, visitors, and equipment enter. The practitioner must have specialized knowledge of cross sectional anatomy and how it relates to the soft tissues and vessels of the human body. The technologist must also have specialized knowledge in the radio-frequency surface coils required for each specific anatomical area to be imaged. [This assignment may also perform basic magnetic resonance safety program duties. Technologists must be knowledgeable in contrast media, power injectors, and PACS. DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT (MR) certification.]

DRT- MR assignments in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification. You must submit a copy of your certification with your application.

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-09.

Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work include 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; 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; and emotional stability.

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: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.

Additional information

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.

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 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 (TJO). Please visit the Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP), va.gov/EMPLOYEE/docs/The-Fair-Chance-to-Compete-Act.pdf for more information.

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:

  • Proof of Radiography Certification from American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (R)
  • Proof of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Certification from American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (MR)
  • Resume
  • Transcript


Important Notes! The following must be submitted with your application:
  • A copy of your transcript.
  • A copy of your certifications in Radiology (R) andMagnetic Resonance Imaging (MR)
  • If applying as a current Federal employee, provide a copy of your most recent SF-50, "Notification of Personnel Action" showing your pay plan, grade, step, and salary. SF-50s for Awards will not be accepted.


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)
  • Proof of Radiography Certification from American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (R)
  • Proof of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Certification from American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (MR)
  • Professional Certification
  • Resume
  • SF-15
  • SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
  • Transcript


Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.

Veterans' preference does not apply for internal or other current permanent Federal agency employees.

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 12/31/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12502905.

  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

Kristen L. Johnson
Address
West Palm Beach VA Medical Center
7305 North Military Trail
West Palm Beach, FL 33410
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.


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