Summary
The Therapeutic Radiologic Technologist - Medical Dosimetrist produces treatment planning dosimetry calculations for conventional or IMRT external beam radiation using a computerized treatment planning system. Consults with the radiation oncologist regarding the appropriateness of each treatment plan. Participates in Brachytherapy procedures. Participates in Total Body Irradiation procedures.
This job is open to
Clarification from the agency
This announcement is open to Veterans and the Public.
Applicants will be referred in the following order:
1. Veterans
2. The Public - US Citizens.
Duties
Functions and duties include:
- Enter irregular fields, patient contours, and other vital beam data into a treatment planning computer in a timely and accurate manner.
- Enter approved treatment fields into the record and verify system, assuring all patient data is correctly input and transferred to treatment machine for treatment of patient.
- Accurately compute radiation dose to individual ports, tumors, spine, and other necessary body structures to ensure quality treatment to patients and safety to tissue tolerance.
- Conscientiously maintain awareness of dose - tissue tolerance.
- Submit plan choices to appropriate physician to aid in determining best treatment method for specific patient tumors on an individual basis.
- Submit notations on simulation films for proper block mounting to mould room within appropriate time frame.
- Accurately prepare treatment charts prior to first treatment with method of treatment to be used.
- Indicate vital factors necessary for correct patient treatment such as boosts, cord block, wedges, and other various treatment aids.
- Accurately diagram patient set-up when necessary to assure treatment method is easily understood by the therapists administering the treatments.
- Record final dose of all treatment areas with accuracy.
- Perform weekly chart checks of patient dose and chart radiation therapy review in the absence of the Physicist.
- Assist CT scan technologists in a competent and courteous manner and instructs them as to the scan slices that will be needed.
- Ensure CT scans are promptly delivered to dosimetry for image formatting to assure smooth patient flow.
- Work with Radiation Oncologists, Therapists, Department Nurse, and Clerical staff as a member of the radiation therapy team to accomplish the goals of the radiation therapy department effectively and efficiently.
- Stay current with new developments in the field of radiation therapy and be able to utilize the new technologies available to provide patients with the best possible treatment.
- Adhere to all safety and health standards, regulations, work practices, and use proper protective equipment as required.
- Assist oncologist in brachytherapy procedures and maintain sterile techniques.
- Design a treatment plan by means of computer and/or manual computation to determine a treatment field technique that will deliver the radiation dose prescribed by the Radiation Oncologist.
- Consider dose-limiting structures when designing treatment plans. These structures could include the eye when treating the brain, the heart when treating the lung, or the spinal cord when it is included in the area of treatment.
- Execute planning for intracavitary and interstitial brachytherapy procedures.
- Supervise, perform, or assist in the process of producing moulds, casts, and other immobilization devices for accurate treatment delivery.
- Work with radiation therapists in the implementation of patient treatment plans, to include the correct application of immobilization devices, beam modification devices, approved field arrangements, and other treatment variables.
- Use imaging modalities such as CT scans alone or in combination with MRI or PET scans to create conventional or IMRT treatment plans that enable us to give higher doses of radiation to a tumor while lowering the doses to the sensitive structures around it.
- Perform calculations for the accurate delivery of the Radiation Oncologist's prescribed dose, document pertinent information in the patient record, and verify the mathematical accuracy of all calculations using a system established by the Medical Physicist.
- Perform or assist in the application of specific methods of radiation measurement as directed by the Medical Physicist.
- Provide technical and physics support to the Medical Physicist; this support could be in radiation protection, qualitative machine calibrations, and quality assurance of the radiation oncology equipment.
- Assist in the clinical education of radiation oncology residents, radiation therapy students, or medical dosimetry students.
- Understand the technical aspects of radiation oncology and medical physics to meticulously derive computerized treatment plans and communicate these aspects to the Radiation Oncologist for plan approval and to the Radiation Therapist for plan implementation.
- Perform routine duties independent of supervision, consulting with the Radiation Oncologist and Medical Physicist as required.
- Provide a working knowledge of radiation safety and current rules and regulations of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
- Interpret and execute treatment plans as defined in relevant treatment protocols.
Work Schedule: Mon - Fri, 8:00am to 4:30pm.
Telework: Ad-hoc.
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 000000.
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not 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.
- 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. To qualify for appointment to this position, all applicants must possess the following:
Citizenship. Be a citizen of the United States. Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens according to 38 U.S.C. § 7407(a).
Education.
- Effective January 1, 2017, candidates are required to hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree and graduate from a medical dosimetry program of at least 12 months in duration. The medical dosimetry program must be accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), or other accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. JRCERT is the accrediting agency for the medical dosimetry programs recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- Exception. Candidates who graduated prior to January 1, 2017, are considered to have met the basic education requirement provided they meet all Medical Dosimetrist Certification Board (MDCB) requirements and are in good standing.
Certification.
- Certification. All applicants must be certified in medical dosimetry by the MDCB. Certified Medical Dosimetry (CMD) is the recognized credential for Medical Dosimetrists.
- NOTE: CMDs who perform therapeutic radiologic technologist duties must also possess ARRT(T) certification and be assigned to a functional statement that combines both types of work.
- NOTE: The Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, P.L. 97-35 requires persons who administer Therapeutic Radiological procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 C.F.R. § 75. They must have completed an educational program meeting or exceeding the standards described in that regulation and be accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or be a Radiation Therapist certified in medical dosimetry.
Foreign Education. To be creditable, education completed outside the U.S. must be deemed at least equivalent to that gained in a conventional U.S. program by a private organization specializing in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. Foreign equivalency evaluation from The Foundation for International Services, Inc. or the International Education Research Foundation is required. Foreign equivalency documentation from any other organization will not be considered.
English Language Proficiency. Medical Dosimetrists must be proficient in spoken and written English. See 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f).
GRADE DETERMINATIONS. In addition to the basic requirements for employment, the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates:
Medical Dosimetrist, GS-12.
Experience. At this level, candidates must possess at least one year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-11) that demonstrates the core competencies described at that level and must fully meet the KSAs.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs). In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs:
(a) Knowledge of the care and use of radioactive resources for implementation and treatment delivery.
(b) Skill at effective communication and leadership as demonstrated by providing orientation and training for staff, providing input for yearly appraisals, directing progress and coordination of workload, and ensuring compliance with standard operating procedures and directives to provide continuity of care.
(c) Skill in providing guidance and expertise related to all aspects of the treatment planning process.
(d) Skill to independently perform complex treatment procedures as evidenced by completing tasks such as developing and troubleshooting highly complex isodose treatment plans delineating critical structures and tumor volumes, performing weekly chart checks, performing QA verifications and providing training on all aspects of the Record and Verify System such as Mosaiq or Aria.
(e) Ability to resolve complex physical and geometric errors in radiation equipment, simulation procedures and treatment delivery implementation.
(f) Ability to follow protocols including, but not limited to developing and implementing policies and standard operating procedures, participating in research programs, ensuring compliance with the radiation safety office, national program office, and accrediting agencies, and following established quality standard measures.
(g) Ability to apply a broad range of specific methods of radiation measurements including, but not limited to, diode, ion chamber, thermoluminescent dosimeter, or film measurement as directed by a qualified Medical Physicist and perform or assist with the QA procedures as directed by a qualified Medical Physicist.
References: Former VA Handbook 5005: Part II Appendix G66, May 20, 2024. For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-12.
Physical Requirements: Moderate lifting and carrying (15-44 lbs.); reaching above shoulder; use of fingers; repeated bending (up to 4 hours); both eyes; depth perception; the ability to distinguish basic colors; the ability to distinguish shades of colors; and hearing (aid may be permitted).
Environmental Factors: There may be exposure to radiant energy; working around machinery with moving parts; and you must be able to work alone and closely with others.
Education
IMPORTANT: This position has a positive education or training requirement. An unofficial copy of college transcripts showing completion of the required degree or program is required and must include the name of the school, your name, date conferred or completed, and degree or certificate type
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/.
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.
What are KSAs?
In the federal hiring process, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) are a list of special qualifications and personal attributes that you need to have for a particular job/grade level (see Qualifications section of this announcement).
- Knowledge statements refer to an organized body of information usually of a factual or procedural nature which, if applied, makes adequate performance on the job possible. A body of information applied directly to the performance of a function. Skill statements refer to the proficient manual, verbal or mental manipulation of data or things.
- Skills can be readily measured by a performance test where quantity and quality of performance are tested, usually within an established time limit.
- Ability statements refer to the power to perform an observable activity at the present time. This means that abilities have been evidenced through activities or behaviors that are similar to those required on the job. Note that abilities are different from aptitudes. Aptitudes are only the potential for performing the activity.
Although not required at the time of application, we highly recommend submitting a supplemental document with your written responses to the KSAs required at each grade level you wish to be considered. If you choose not to submit KSA responses, please ensure your resume includes details of your experience that fully demonstrate the required KSAs as described in the "Qualifications" section of this announcement.
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:
- Certified Medical Dosimetry (CMD) certification by the MDCB.
- ARRT(T) certification.
- Resume
- Transcript
For Adobe pdf forms:
- Save the file to your computer or phone, do not open it in a browser window.
- Once saved, open it using Adobe Acrobat or Reader (if you complete the form in a browser, the data is not saved to the form).
- Save the data in Adobe and sign the form. Close the file.
- If unable to sign, open in a web browser to sign and save. This will keep all the data and allow you to sign the form.
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
- Certified Medical Dosimetry (CMD) certification by the MDCB.
- ARRT(T) certification.
- Other (3)
- 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.
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 10/02/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12552277.
- 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.
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.
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.
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