Therapeutic Radiation Technologist Job in Seattle, WA

Vacancy No. CBSV-12704074-25-MLR Department Veterans Health Administration
Salary $91,982.00 to $119,573.00 Grade 10 to 10
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 2/27/2025 Close Date 3/10/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Seattle, WA


Summary

Therapeutic Radiologic Technologists (TRTs) deliver prescribed high doses of therapeutic radiation for the purpose of treatment of cancer and abnormal cell growths. TRTs assist in the localization of tumors, participate in treatment planning, and deliver high doses of ionizing radiation as prescribed by the radiation oncologists. These treatments are performed by utilizing a linear accelerator.

This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

The area of consideration will be referred in the following order: 1. Current permanent other Federal Agency employees 2. Veterans 3. US Citizens - Public

Duties

Duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Performs procedures for consultation, simulation, treatment planning, and treatment delivery.
  • Keeps current of any changes. Maintains detailed and accurate daily records of technical, legal and statistical components of treatment.
  • Schedules treatments such that linear accelerator times are optimized while still leaving some flexibility for emergency treatment times.
  • Delivers prescribed therapeutic radiation for the treatment of cancer and other abnormal growths.
  • Takes patient's identification photo for display in the patient's treatment chart.
  • For the initial treatment/filming, sets up to tattoos provided by CT simulation team following all set-up instructions and using all prescribed devices.
  • Takes SSD readings and obtains isocenter verification films.
  • Photographs each treatment field for documentation purposes.
  • Performs CBCT imaging and port film imaging as required.
  • Documents all changes in patients' chart and observes patient's condition daily.
  • Recognizes the need for emotional and psychosocial support for patients.
  • Refers patients to departmental staff and other health care professionals as necessary.
  • Reinforces radiation oncologist's recommendations regarding general activities, diet, prevention and treatment of reactions to radiation therapy.
  • Performs quality control measurements of all treatment machines by taking readings every morning prior to patient treatments using the physics quality assurance program for each energy level.
  • Identifies each patient by required identification protocols per hospital policy before each simulation and treatment is delivered/time out.
  • Communicates with medical staff on other floors/units for quality patient care.
  • Follows HIPAA guidelines regarding patient privacy.
  • Enters all pertinent daily information into patient's CPRS/VISTA, record regarding number of treatments and doses given for other hospital personnel to utilize in patient care.
  • Maintains detailed and accurate daily records of technical, legal and statistical components of treatment.
  • Practices radiation safety protocols to limit exposure to patients, staff and self in compliance with department and VA radiation safety procedures in order to maintain the principles of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).
  • Wears film badges in compliance with radiation safety procedures in compliance with radiation regulations and guidelines of the state of Washington.
  • Assists patient to and from treatment room as well as transferring on and off the treatment table when needed.
  • Performs daylight film processor procedures and ensures the processor is operating optimally when being used, and contacts processor engineer if problems occur.
  • Maintains treatment rooms and equipment in a clean, neat, safe condition always and keeps treatment room supplies at an adequate level.
  • Notifies supervisor/physics staff of treatment equipment issues.
  • Reports all environmental and other equipment problems to the proper authorities.
  • Notifies physician if this will impact patient care and/or treatment.
  • Performs irregular hour's emergency treatments during the clinics off hours including after hours, weekends, and holidays.
  • Works with Radiation Oncologists, Dosimetrists, nursing and clerical staff plus fellow radiation therapists to develop teamwork to effectively and efficiently accomplish the goals of the radiation therapy department.
  • Keeps current with new developments in the field of radiation therapy and keeps licensing and continuing education requirements up to date.
  • Keeps current on all VA required courses.
  • Keeps training current for all equipment.
  • Keeps current on treatment machine characteristics including various energy and output levels.
  • Operates equipment to determine correct dose and field uniformity.
  • Provides patient with accurate and compassionate treatment and acts as a supportive caregiver.
  • Follows established safety practices (including hazardous materials and radioactive materials) and reports to facility director or administrative service manager as promptly as possible if issues arise as to unsafe conditions, unsafe practices, or any occupational illness or injury.
  • Adheres to all safety and health standards regulations, work practices, and uses proper protective equipment as needed.
  • Participates in reviewing, revising or authoring policies and procedures that need attention.
  • Performs accurate charge capture, documentation and CPT codes.
  • Ability to operate and perform Quality Assurance on TrueBeam linear accelerators, IGRT Onboard Imaging. Perfect Pitch 6 Degrees of freedom Couch to monitor patients' positioning and make appropriate shifts if necessary, and VisionRT. Informs physicians of any problems.
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 0730-1600
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 000000
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized
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.
  • 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. 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).
  • 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

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.

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.
  • Education. Individuals must have successfully completed a program in therapeutic radiologic technology, evidenced by a certificate or an associate's or higher degree accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology or other accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the subsequent completion of a 12-month ED accrediting body-approved program in therapeutic radiologic technology. (COPY OF TRANSCRIPT WITH CONFERRED DATE REQUIRED)
    • NOTE: Public Law 97-35 requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 C.F.R. Part 75. They must have successfully completed an educational program meeting or exceeding the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the ED, and be radiation therapists certified by the ARRT in Radiation Therapy (T).
  • Certification. All applicants must be certified in therapeutic radiologic technology by the ARRT in Radiation Therapy (ARRT (T)). (COPY OF CERTIFICATION REQUIRED)
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:

Therapeutic Radiologic Technologist, GS-10
Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level directly related to the position being filled.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs). Candidates must demonstrate all the KSAs below:
(a) Skill in independently performing machine warm up procedures and interpreting output levels compared with established thresholds adhering to the principles of radiation safety and all aspects of quality assurance.
(b) Ability to independently perform patient chart reviews using an electronic medical record and the Record and Verify System or other similar treatment delivery systems.
(c) Ability to independently perform all basic and complex CT simulations, including independently operating the CT equipment, following directives, designing custom immobilization for reproducible set-ups, obtaining optimal imaging, completing accurate data transfer for treatment planning and providing accurate and precise patient documentation.
(d) Ability to utilize a Linac's On Board Imaging system to interpret complex images.

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-10

Physical Requirements: Light lifting and carrying (under 15 lbs.), use of fingers, both hands required, walking, standing, repeated bending, ability to distinguish basic colors, and hearing (aid may be permitted), mental and emotional stability, and visual acuity 20/30 corrected. Environmental factors include excessive noise (intermittent), working closely with others, and working alone.

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.

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. 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.

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:

  • (ARRT) (T) certification
  • Resume
  • Transcript


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 (VA)
  • License
  • (ARRT) (T) certification
  • Performance Appraisal
  • 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 03/10/2025 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12704074.

  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

Michelle Rootes
Address
VA Puget Sound Health Care System
1660 South Columbian Way
Seattle, WA 98108
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: 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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