Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist
Veterans Health Administration - Department of Veterans Affairs
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. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d). Education. Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the 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). (TRANSCRIPT REQUIRED) NOTE: Assignment to the clinical program director requires meeting JRCERT minimum educational standards as noted in the assignment description. 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. (PROVIDE A COPY OF CERTIFICATIONS) Credentialing Standards. Public Law 97-35, the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75, Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs and the Credentialing of Radiographic Personnel. Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field. Grade Determinations: GS 08 (1) Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS 07) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. GS 07 equivalent experiences include: see above GS 06 KSAs. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: (a) Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines. (b) Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed. (c) Knowledge of patient’s clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results. (d) Ability to monitor patient’s physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed. (e) Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers. (f) Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 08. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS 08. References: VA Handbook 5005/123 PART II APPENDIX G58 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 08. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS 08. Preferred Experience: One or more year’s experience Performed routine x-rays, operates portable equipment and C-Arm fluoroscopic equipment Assisted radiologist in the less complex fluoroscopic and spot fill examinations. Able to provide clinical instruction to radiology tech students Physical Requirements: Heavy Lifting (45 lbs and over); Heavy Carrying (45 lbs and over); Straight Pulling (up to 1 hour); Pushing (1 – 2 hours); Reaching above shoulder; Use of fingers; Both hands required; Walking (up to 3 hours); Standing (up to 3 hours); Repeated bending (up to 1 hour); Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; Near vision correctable at 13″ to 16″; Hearing (aid permitted). This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist primarily performs urgent and emergent radiographic examinations. Receives patients, explains method of procedure, positions patients, selects and sets technical factors, sets up and adjusts accessory equipment required, and makes exposures necessary for the requested procedures.