Summary
The PACS Technologist provides guidance, instruction, maintenance and troubleshooting services in the day-to-day operations of the Radiology Picture Archive and Communication System (PACS), Voice Recognition System (VRS), Vista Imaging interface, and the Radiology Package in DHCP. The incumbent serves as a specialist providing support in the operation and management of digital image and voice acquisition, processing, storage and display systems at the Amarillo VA Health Care System.
This job is open to
The public
U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.
Federal employees - Competitive service
Current federal employees whose agencies follow the U.S. Office of Personnel Management's hiring rules and pay scales.
Federal employees - Excepted service
Current federal employees whose agencies have their own hiring rules, pay scales and evaluation criteria.
Internal to an agency
Current federal employees of the hiring agency that posted the job announcement.
Clarification from the agency
This announcement is open to (Current & Permanent) Federal Employees and US Citizens. Note: 38 U.S.C. 7412 waives the requirement to apply Veterans preference to external applicants for appointments made from this announcement. NOTE: The 2-page Resume requirement does not apply to this position. For more information, refer to Required Documents below.
Duties
Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional
The Amarillo VA Health Care System is a member of the VA Heart of Texas Healthcare Network (VISN 17). The Service (department) provides diagnostic-imaging services primarily to Veterans and operates within the guidelines established by VISN 17.
The PACS Technologist works under the Chief of Radiology Service or his/her designee and coordinates closely with OI&T, and Biomedical/Engineering Service. The incumbent is accountable to a second level, the VISN PACS Coordinator. The PACS Technologist has program responsibility for the facility wide distribution of images utilizing the (PACS) operations, Integrated Voice Recognition Dictation System, and approved ancillary systems as necessary. In concert with the Facility Information Security Officer, the PACS Technologist is responsible for maintaining security of the local PACS Network, users, passwords, and the protection and properly authorized distribution of patient information.
The PACS Technologist:
- leads a team of multidisciplinary members in accomplishing strategic planning and integration of PACS and network elements.
- researches and analyzes problems, issues, or program requirements supporting the functions of a digital imaging system.
- determines pertinent issues and collects relevant information from a variety of sources.
- reviews information and apply standard analytical techniques.
- develops recommendations and proposals.
- performs complex system administrator functions such as oversight of RIS (Hospital Information System/Radiology Information System) links, AE titles, individual and user group creation and access management, etc.
- maintains knowledge of VA and other national guidelines pertaining to PACS network, VistA imaging, and database security., specific positioning, technique, and imaging procedures so he/she will be able to perform and reconcile image information correctly and efficiently during technical post processing and evaluation.
- performs Vista Radiology and support activities and general ADPAC duties within Radiology Service and coordinates support throughout the AVAHCS.
- develops methods and programs to evaluate, monitor, and maintain digital imaging and voice recognition systems.
- ensures that all responsibilities are fulfilled in an efficient, timely, and satisfactory manner.
- is a key member of the local PACS team, dedicated to the planning, developing, installation and operation of the PACS and Voice Recognition Imaging Network.
- serves as a liaison for OI&T, Imaging Biomedical employees, and clinical users to ensure the PACS system is configured to optimize Imaging modalities and clinical operations as well as distribution capabilities.
- provides first line support for image transmission or display errors related to modalities, Vista interface, display workstations, and printers.
- effects repairs, when possible, instructs users in proper operation or work around, and initiates and coordinates repair requests with appropriate services or vendors when necessary.
Duties are continued in the Education Section.
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Recruitment Incentive (Sign-on Bonus): Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (Relocation Assistance): Not Authorized
Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases When setting pay, a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of higher or unique qualifications or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade).
Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year)
Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior [work experience] or military service experience.
Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child.
Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66
.
Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA
Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement)
Telework: This is an onsite position. Telework may be offered when deemed necessary by the department AD-HOC (Employees who telework on an occasional, episodic, or short-term basis, and have completed required telework training and telework agreement.) (Portion of day acceptable)
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 53942-F
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.
- 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).
- Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.
As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:
- your performance and conduct;
- the needs and interests of the agency;
- whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
- whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.
Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
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: Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
Education. Must have completed a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the 2 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
Must have a current certification 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:
Picture Archive Communication System (PACS) Technologist), GS-11
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. Examples of GS-10 experience can be found below.
Note: To be equivalent to the GS-10 level, experience must have also been earned while holding an active ARRT (R) Certification.
The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA's).
- Knowledge of contingency plans during equipment downtimes.
- Ability to act as liaison for Radiology with biomedical engineering and OI&T.
- Ability to develop methods and programs to evaluate, monitor, and maintain digital imaging and voice recognition systems.
- Ability to lead a team of multidisciplinary members in accomplishing strategic planning and integration of PACS and network elements.
- Ability to perform complex system administrator functions such as: oversight of RIS (Hospital Information System/Radiology Information System) links, AE titles, individual and user group creation and access management, etc.
- Knowledge of VA and other national guidelines pertaining to PACS network, VistA imaging, and database security.
- Knowledge of specific positioning, technique, and imaging procedures so he/she will be able to perform and reconcile image information correctly and efficiently during technical post processing and evaluation.]
GS-10 level experience includes, but is not limited to the following:
Reference: Picture Archive Communication System (PACS) Technologist Assignment. The PACS technologist provides support and troubleshoots system application issues and instructs users in the proper operation of digital image processing, storage, and display systems. The technologist performs radiology, imaging, and PACS support activities and general ADPAC duties including user access control. The technologist coordinates contingency plans during equipment downtimes and initiates repair requests with appropriate services or vendors. The technologist provides oversight of hardware relating to PACS display workstations, applications, speech recognition hardware, and other medical imaging hardware. The technologist provides training to radiologists, technologists, and other clients in the proper and efficient use of imaging hardware and software of the integrated PACS and VistA imaging systems. The technologist provides instruction and guidance in daily operations of the ancillary systems such as: speech recognition dictation, dose reporting systems, contrast reporting systems, etc. The incumbent may function as a DRT which may include complex modalities such as CT, MR, mammography, ultrasound, and/or IR.
The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs:
- Ability to provide support and troubleshoot system application and hardware issues and instruct users in the proper operation of digital image processing, storage and display systems.
- Ability to perform VistA radiology, VistA imaging, and PACS support activities and general ADPAC duties including user access control.
- Ability to initiate repair requests with appropriate services or vendors.
- Knowledge of PACS system infrastructure and functionality.
- Ability to provide training to all user levels in the efficient use of imaging hardware and software of the integrated PACS system.
- Knowledge of specific positioning, technique, and imaging procedures so he/she will be able to perform and reconcile image information correctly and efficiently during technical post processing and evaluation.
Preferred Experience:
- 2 to 4 years minimum experience managing and maintaining Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) in a healthcare setting. This includes ensuring PACS servers are online, troubleshooting image routing issues, and managing user accounts.
- Ability to provide technical assistance to radiologists and other healthcare professionals regarding PACS functionalities.
- Demonstrated ability and initiative for continued learning through internships or working in IT support roles. Also demonstrated ability with collaboration with IT teams to ensure data security and compliance with healthcare regulations.
- Experience where demonstrated knowledge combines IT expertise with deep understanding of healthcare workflows.
- Ability to work collaboratively with biomedical maintenance on software and hardware issues involving PACS equipment.
- Prior experience working networking with other resources within healthcare systems, such as other PACS technologists, PACS Administrator and IT personnel.
- Pursuit of Certified Imaging Informatics Professional (CIIP) or possessing this credential is preferable. Demonstrated initiative to troubleshoot issues onsite and offsite.
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-11. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-11.
Physical Requirements:
Physical aspects associated with work required of this assignment are typical for the occupation and would generally not require a pre-placement examination.
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/.
NOTE: If your school has changed names, or is no longer in existence, you must provide this information in your application.
NOTE: If your school was accredited by JRCERT Find a Program - JRCERT or a body that is recognized by the US Department of Education https://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home at the time of graduation but is no longer listed on the websites, you must provide documentation of accreditation with your application packet.
Duties Continued
- (when systems fail to respond to established procedures) reviews technical manuals to arrive at a resolution.
- investigates system malfunctions to determine the cause.
- defines and isolates the specific problem, using available diagnostic and error recovery techniques and initiates corrective actions.
- contacts vendor's representatives to determine the cause of problems that do not respond to available problem-solving techniques.
- monitors equipment controlling environment and executes emergency procedures in case of natural or man-made disasters and security risk situations.
- performs daily support in PACS operations.
- plans, installations and tests implement PACS operations.
- implements PACS and related systems including applications systems, networking interface software and system administrative software.
- ensures acceptable levels of system performance by utilizing various tools for monitoring system performance, capacity planning, and imaging management maintenance to adjust system and operations parameters as necessary.
- oversees all aspects of implementation of software and upgrades to the PACS system.
- identifies and determines training priorities, conducts and administers training programs, develops and improves training guidance.
- provides training to radiologists and technologists in proper and effect use of imaging hardware and software and in the use of PACS, Voice Recognition System, Vista and CPRS software.
- coordinates with clinical service Clinical Application Coordinators (CACS) in training and development of instructional materials for display of radiographic images at clinical workstations.
- Trains PACS staff members or employees in the Imaging and Cardiology sections as needed to accomplish the tasks or projects in the required timeframes.
- maintains current knowledge and answers questions team members on procedures, policies, and directives by providing expert advice and leadership.
- designs and maintains a quality control program for digital radiographic images to include but not necessarily restricted to evaluation of image quality from the modality to the viewing monitor. This will meet the intent of the American College of Radiology and JCAHO recommendations.
- develops methods for the collection and retrieval of computer information from established systems to enhance analysis of program related data.
- complies with all safety/fire prevention rules and regulations using protective equipment when required or provided.
- assists Radiology Service Chief in assessment and the procurement of new equipment related to PACS and VRS systems.
- identifies problems, gathers data, performs analysis, and proposes solutions to problems and barriers to establishment of an efficient, cost-effective filmless Radiology environment.
- provides analysis of user needs and recommends appropriate hardware and software solutions.
- assists users with design of local software applications.
- is the primary Contracting Officer Representative (COR) and Point of Contact (POC) for PACS within the facility.
- provides first line technical support for image transmission or resolution of display errors related to modalities, Vista interface, display workstations, and printers.
- maintains a log of users, addresses of networked equipment and DICOMAE (Application Entry) titles of all equipment to be used by project officers, systems programmers, operations personnel and/or managers at all levels, e.g. establish user accounts and passwords.
- works with the Information Security Officer (ISO) on the more complex aspects of the PACS security program. Incumbent maintains user privileges, network access and security schemes following applicable VISN and National IT Security guidelines.
- works and directs staff performing work at the GS-5 to GS-9 level.
- provides guidance and technical direction necessary for accomplishing work as a team.
- Ensures
- that local PACS team members know assignments and responsibilities and monitors to see work completed accurately and on time.
- performs guidance which includes but not limited to, assignment of work, leave approval correspondence through the supervisor, develop performance standards, recommend rating of team members, plan, schedule, help resolve complaints, program direction, coordination of work, and recommend actions for positive outcomes.
Duties Continued in the Additional Information section
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.
Duties Continued:
- performs oversight of team duties that constitute 20% percent of the workload of this position.
- performs duties of a Radiology ADPAC including user access control. Incumbent complies with all system and personnel security requirements.
- coordinates activities with Vista Imaging manager, Biomedical personnel assigned to Radiology, Vista Imaging users, and support personnel on computer-related matters to ensure all issues are adequately addressed and interface activities are conducted as effectively and efficiently as possible.
- maintains communications with vendors, service personnel to troubleshoot problems with hardware and software, logs problems into vendor's Service system, and reports those problems to the VISN PACS Coordinator.
- schedules downtime and implement workflow changes or work around solutions until the problems are resolved.
- complies with all safety/fire prevention regulations while promptly reporting all accidents and notify supervisors of unsafe, unhealthy conditions in the workplace.
- attends scheduled training sessions and participates in facility or service-level staff meetings and safety promotions as directed by the supervisor.
- maintains knowledge of fire drills and emergency plans for work area, including locations of all emergency fire equipment.
- sets up PACS workstations and supports remote radiologists.
- coordinates with other PACS Technologist and VISN PACS Administrator when necessary to solve on-site and off-site PACS issues. Chairs Quality Improvement (QI) committee and conducts quarterly meetings.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
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:
Special Note for Applications: To complete your application, please use the following link
https://vacareers.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/Resume.docx to download the standard Clinical Resume Document. This one-page document does not need to be modified and must be uploaded into the two-page restricted 'Resume' document upload field.
Your full resume/CV may be uploaded without page limitation into the 'Other' document upload field.
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
- DD-214/ Statement of Service
- Disability Letter (Schedule A)
- Disability Letter (VA)
- License
- Resume/CV
- Other (2)
- PCS Orders
- Performance Appraisal
- Professional Certification
- 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.
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 01/12/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12859244.
- 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.
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.