Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

Veterans Health Administration • Minneapolis, MN

5d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is a member of the cardiac catheterization team and independently performs complex physiological and radiological procedures. The technologist performs invasive radiological, cardiovascular, intracoronary ultrasound, and electrophysiology procedures in collaboration with a cardiologist, while operating radiographic and non-radiographic equipment and supporting patient care before, during, and after procedures.

The role requires advanced knowledge of imaging and radiation protection, independent patient preparation and positioning, equipment setup and adjustment, and maintenance of records and exposure documentation. The technologist also evaluates trainees and less experienced technologists and serves as the team authority on removal of arterial and venous sheaths and post-procedure hemostasis, including management of complications.

The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Telework is not available, and the position is not virtual. Relocation and recruitment incentives and permanent change of station are not authorized. The position is full performance level GS-10, and the actual grade for selection is GS-10.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship, except that non-citizens may be appointed when qualified citizens cannot be recruited under VA policy.
• Certification in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, Radiography (ARRT) (R).
• Completion of a full-time diagnostic radiologic technology training course of at least 24 months, or equivalent, in a post-high-school program evidenced by a certificate or associate degree, accredited by JRCERT or another accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-10), directly related to the position, demonstrating the required clinical competencies.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.
• Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices, and techniques, including accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes.
• Ability to use advanced imaging software supporting complex imaging programs, recognize changes in equipment or procedures that could increase exposure, and recommend preventive methods.
• Knowledge of basic physics, including energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and x-ray properties, to understand equipment operation.
• Knowledge and skill in positioning patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging studies.
• Compliance with applicable credentialing standards for radiographic personnel.
• Compliance with VA background and security investigation requirements, pre-employment urinalysis for selected applicants in testing-designated positions, and seasonal influenza vaccination requirements for VA health care personnel.
• Successful completion of the required online onboarding and pre-employment requirements, including acceptable identification.
• Service of a one- or two-year trial period, subject to written certification for continued employment.

Responsibilities

• Perform specialized invasive radiological, cardiovascular, intracoronary ultrasound, and electrophysiology procedures in collaboration with the cardiologist.
• Operate non-radiographic equipment, including hemodynamic monitoring and recording systems and computer-aided programs for ventriculography and coronary anatomy.
• Prepare patients for angiographic, angioplasty, Swan-Ganz, intra-aortic balloon pump placement, electrophysiology, and permanent and temporary pacemaker procedures.
• Prepare arterial and venous monitoring setups using prescribed aseptic and sterile techniques.
• Independently receive patients, explain complex or high-risk procedures, position patients, and adjust equipment as needed.
• Determine isocenter values for accurate examinations, including complex or non-standard anatomical presentations.
• Determine technical factors, positioning, and angulation to obtain optimal views of specific vessels or lesions, including technically demanding cases.
• Apply advanced radiation protection practices.
• Use advanced PACS and computer applications, troubleshoot system issues, and assist staff with technical problems.
• Independently prepare and set up radiological, ultrasound, and specialized equipment for electrophysiology, angiographic, and angioplasty procedures.
• Maintain and audit patient and examination records, digital disc archives, and radiographic film badge exposure records.
• Evaluate trainee and less-experienced technologist competency and provide feedback to the DRT supervisor about progress.
• Advise the team on removal of indwelling arterial and venous sheaths and achievement of post-procedure hemostasis, including management of complications.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Federal employee benefits package; specific benefits and eligibility depend on position type and are available through the hiring agency.
• The occupational series may be eligible for the Student Loan Repayment Program, with repayment up to $40,000 annually and $100,000 lifetime, subject to a three-year service agreement and acceptable performance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree