Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound)

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: Medical Instrument Technicians must be proficient in spoken and written English. Education. There are no specific educational requirements for this occupation. Licensure or Certification is not required for this occupation; however, it is strongly desirable at GS-6 or above as evidence of possession of the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities. The Registration by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) is highly desirable. Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications are also desirable. 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:GS-9: In addition to the basic requirements for employment, the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates. Experience: At least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level (GS-8), which is directly related to the duties of the position to be filled and must fully meet the KSAs at that level. Specialized experience which demonstrates possession of the knowledge required in order to provide all aspects of diagnostic ultrasonography services. Examples of experience include ability to perform diagnostic ultrasound examination on multiple areas of the body, including, but not limited to, the abdomen, pelvis, transvaginal, chest, small parts, thyroid, breast, and scrotum; ability to perform vascular studies such as vertebral, renal artery, aortic aneurysm, portal-systemic shunts, etc.; ability to assist radiologists with biopsy procedures determining the location, depth, and required needle angle for the lesion to be sampled; and ability to assist in surgical procedures and fluid aspirations. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the requirements listed above, candidates must demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA). 1. Knowledge of the more complex examination and treatment procedures and techniques in order to provide training and supervision in these procedures, to evaluate and initiate performance improvement projects, and to write policies, procedures, and protocols that pertain to diagnostic ultrasonography. 2. Knowledge of JCAHO and other regulatory requirements* 3. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with employees at varying grade levels. Preferred Experience: 1 year ultrasound experience Registration by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) is highly desirable. Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications are also desirable. References: VA Handbook 5005/15, Part II, Appendix G27, Medical Instrument Technician Qualification Standard GS-649 Series. The full performance level of this vacancy is 09. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS 09. Physical Requirements: Moderate Lifting/carrying (15-44 pounds), Straight pulling (2 hours), Pushing (4 hours), Reaching above shoulder, Use of fingers, Both hands required, Walking/standing (4 hours), kneeling (2 hours), Repeated bending (2 hours), both legs required, Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously, Near vision correctable at 13″ to 16″ to Jaeger 1 to 4, Both eyes required, Hearing (aid may be permitted or without).
The Medical Diagnostic Ultrasound Technician will assess and diagnose medical conditions using imaging equipment to include equipment upkeep, creating images and communicating with other medical staff. Independently perform standard examinations, follow Radiologist protocol of patients when performing their Procedures. Evaluate the nature of critical and emergency procedures, and rearrange patients scheduled to accommodate them. Maintain records of patients examined.