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) 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. [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 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).
- English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d).
- Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
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-12
Experience. At least one year of the following types of experience comparable to the next lower grade level that fully meets the KSAs at that level
Assignments. For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), and range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. DRTs at this grade level may be appointed to one of the following assignments:
Supervisory [Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist] [ ]. Assignment to this grade level is restricted to those serving as the chief radiologic technologist at medical facilities with comprehensive and complex radiographic and imaging programs. Employees in these assignments plan and direct the radiologic technology program at active, affiliated medical centers with critical care and emergent inpatient services, and have full supervisory responsibility for a large staff of subordinate personnel, including GS-10 DRTs, at least one subordinate team leader or supervisor at the next lower grade level, and may include clerical or administrative support staff. At this level, the radiologic technology program typically includes the full variety of comprehensive and complex modalities. The candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*):
- i. *Ability to perform the full range of supervisory duties, including responsibility for assignment of work performed; performance evaluations; recommendations for appointments, awards, advancements, and, when appropriate, disciplinary actions; and identification of continuing education and training needs.
- ii. [Ability] to serve as a consultant to other facility personnel in evaluating and planning radiologic technology services for the most complex cases.
- iii. *Ability to participate in research studies and/or as a consultant to others conducting research.
- iv. *Ability to consult with staff and resident physicians through patient presentation, attending ward rounds, and specialty clinics and/or conferences, etc.
- v. *[Ability] to assess, plan, and evaluate the delivery of radiologic technology services at the facility.
Preferred Experience: Minimum of three years of experience as a Chief or Assistant Chief technologist in a large/ complex Radiology Service.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit
https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work include heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds; pushing up to four-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. Must have the ability to stand and work while wearing a lead apron for possibly long periods of time.