Diagnstc Radiologic Technologist (Diagnostic/Fluroroscopic/DEXA) Job in Salisbury, NC

Vacancy No. CBTA-12681885-25-KWP Department Veterans Health Administration
Salary $71,677.00 to $93,187.00 Grade 8 to 8
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 2/3/2025 Close Date 2/24/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Salisbury, NC


Summary

The technologist operates independently and without direct supervision as the technologist responsible for the performance and coordination of all diagnostic radiology examinations. These exams are performed with and/or without the use of contrast materials. Also performs DEXA (dual energy absorptiometry) bone mineral density exams of the spine, extremities, and pelvis. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies so that proper diagnosis and treatment may be effectuated.

Duties

  1. Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist for the purpose of performing exams requiring injectable solutions such as cystograms, cholangiograms, fistulagrams, and arthrography and for the purpose of performing oral and rectal exams of the GI tract. (In the case of injected media, a patient consent form must be obtained, when indicated.) These procedures require the use of needles, syringes, renografin, barium, and enema bags. These contrast materials and the radiographer must know their effects and adverse reactions. Improper use or administration of the contrast materials run the risk of patient mortality, therefore, it is essential that a thorough understanding of usage be possessed by those who prepare it. Must be continuously on the alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. Adverse reactions on the part of the patient require immediate attention so that harm does not come to the patient or equipment.
  2. Performs irregular hour emergency on-call, 24hours per day, coverage. On-call requires the technologist be available within 60 minutes from receipt of call so that proper and effective emergency care can be given to the patient. In emergent situations, incumbent may be required to assist in other modalities.
  3. Confers with radiologists to determine requirement of non-standard exams. Determines technical factors, positioning etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of Dexa scanning. Advises radiologists or referring physicians of examination results. Notifies them of images requiring their immediate attention.
  4. Selects and prepares proper imaging cameras, computers, and auxiliary equipment to perform procedures. Positions the patient and equipment to obtain desired images.
  5. Adheres to hospital infection control and safety policies/techniques with emphasis on sterile technique; the storage of sterile supplies; the disposal of body fluids and 'sharps'; proper attire; hand washing practices; and continuing education.
  6. Works with the radiologist as a member of the surgical/radiographic team. Must assist and anticipate 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.
  7. Thorough knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices, techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, genetic changes, and effects of radiation on living organisms. Insures correct machine techniques to minimize such exposures, monitors the safeguards, and recognizes when changes of equipment or procedures might result in increased exposure. Then recommends alternative methods to prevent such exposures. This is achieved by the appropriate use of lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls, collimation and distance management. Film badges are worn by the radiographer to assure compliance to radiation regulations and guidelines of the state.
  8. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. This includes the maintenance of fluoroscopy spreadsheet, registration and editing of patient exams in the computerized information system, copying of images to CD, knowledge of the HIS-RIS work list and routing exams to different locations. Works with/performs operator troubleshooting of the patient archiving computer system (PACS).
  9. Properly identifies patient images. This is essential so that mistaken identity of patient images does not occur. The technologist must be certain that the patient 1.0. band and the request are identical. Confirms patient identity by verbally confirming patient name and social security number or date of birth as required by JCAHO.
  10. Responsible for stocking and inventory of all supplies and pharmaceuticals used in the department insuring that patient care is not interrupted.
  11. Keeps abreast of technological advances in the fields of Radiology/Dexa and maintains ARRT and BLS license/certifications.
  12. Troubleshoots equipment used in diagnostic radiological procedures and is able to make minor repairs and/or adjustments. Exercises extreme caution in the handling and safeguarding of all radiation producing equipment. Must recognize and report major equipment malfunctions within a timely manner to Bio-Med by submitting a work order.
  13. Performs all processing of digital images and insures images are transmitted to PACS.
  14. Supervises and trains rotating x-ray students in clinical and didactic areas.
  15. and other duties assigned

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday; 9:30am-6:00pm
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job
  • Designated and/or random drug testing may be required
  • Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
  • You may be required to serve a probationary period
  • Subject to a background/security investigation
  • Must be proficient in written and spoken English
  • Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process

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 duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate's degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from schools accredited by the ARRT and certification by the ARRT in radiology.
    • Certification. All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (R).
Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates:

GS-8 DRT (Full Performance Level)

Experience. At least 1 year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1. Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines;
2. Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed;
3. Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results;
4. Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed;
5. Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers; and
6. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest.

References: VA Handbook 5005/77, Part II, Appendix G25

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-08.

Physical Requirements: Bending, pushing, pulling, reaching and occasional kneeling, crawling and squatting; lifting, carrying, bending, and manipulation of equipment; patient assistance and positioning; walking and prolonged standing; the ability to read written orders, computer screens, patient records, and equipment controls; and the ability to communicate with patients, physicians, and coworkers. Near visual acuity to assess patient's physical condition when performing exams, and evaluating images for diagnostic quality. Must be able to speak and hear to communicate with patients. Ability to make critical decisions, interact with patients of different ages and health conditions, maintain patient confidentiality, work under stressful conditions, such as operating or emergency rooms.

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

This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.

It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.

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.

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.

If you are unable to apply online 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.

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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, résumé, 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.

Required Documents

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:

  • Resume


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 (1)
  • Other (2)
  • Resume
  • 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 http://www.fedshirevets.gov/job/vetpref/index.aspx.

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 02/24/2025 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12681885.

  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.

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). HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations where patients receive care or who come into contact with VA patients 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 facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, paid and unpaid, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, students, researchers, volunteers, and trainees who work at these facilities. HCPs that are unable to receive or otherwise decline a flu shot will be expected to wear a face mask throughout the influenza season.

Agency contact information

Kristopher Palmer
Address
WG Bill Hefner Salisbury VA Medical Center
1601 Brenner Avenue
Salisbury, NC 28144
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: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.