Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

Summary

This Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT), position is assigned to the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Diagnostic Imaging.

Duties

["Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional The duties of the Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) in Diagnostic Imaging include, but are not limited to: Subspecialty requires advanced ARRT certification in Computed Tomography (CT). Technologist meets the requirements set forth in MEDVAMC. BLS Certification is maintained on a bi-annual basis and always complies. Accurately operates a wide variety of imaging equipment to obtain examinations of acceptable quality, utilizing the least amount of radiation to obtain quality imaging for diagnosis and localization purposes. Technologist works under the supervision of the Outpatient Clinic Administrative Officer and /or Lead Technologist and rotates all responsibilities within the CT section. He/she works independently on most exams but confers with Radiologists and the Lead Technologist on more difficult problems. Work is spot-checked for achievement of objectives. Knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy and physiology including location, appearance, and functioning of the major and minor systems susceptible to radiographic illumination, and knowledge of changes to systems and organs caused by common medical and surgical diseases. Performs all aspects of CT imaging to include Head, Neck, Chest, Abdomen, Pelvis Extremities, 3D Reconstructions of CT, Multi-Planar Reformats CT and Angiographic studies when requested and/or when part of a standard procedure. Performs CT Angiography of the Circle of Willis, Carotids, Abdominal Aortas, Run- Off's, including. The radiographic goal of CT is to provide high quality axial imaging; generate the best possible images at the minimal radiation dose necessary to the patient. Technologist will work with the radiologist/physician as a member of the surgical /CT team. Must assist and anticipate the needs of the radiologist/physician and the performance of the exam. They must be continuously on the alert for the patient's condition and sterile field. The incumbent works independently on most exams but confers with Radiologists and Lead Technologist on more difficult problems. Work is spot-checked for achievement of objectives. Work Schedule: Rotating shift, Thur-Fri, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sat-Mon, 06:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 00241-F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized"]

Qualifications

Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. 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 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). NOTE: Assignment to the clinical program director requires meeting JRCERT minimum educational standards as noted in the assignment description. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). 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). GS10 Grade Determinations: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs: Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes. Ability to utilize advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recognize changes in equipment and procedures that might result in increased exposures, and ability to recommend methods to prevent such exposures. Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of x-ray, to understand the operation of the equipment. Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies. Preferred Experience: One year of hospital experience and CT registration. Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS11. Physical Requirements: Physical aspects associated with work required of this assignment are typical for the occupation, see Duties section for essential job duties of the position. May require standing, lifting, carrying, sitting, stooping, bending, puling, and pushing. May be required to wear personal protective equipment and undergo annual TB screening or testing as conditions of employment. Work Environment: Work is performed in an office/clinic setting with minimal risks that requires normal safety precautions; the area is adequately lighted, heated, and ventilated. However, the work environment requires someone with the ability to handle several tasks at once in sometimes stressful situations.