Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Computed Tomography (CT).

Veterans Health Administration • Durham, NC

2d

About The Position

The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist performs computed tomography examinations of the head, neck, spine, chest, body, and extremities, including examinations using contrast materials. The technologist operates independently and without direct supervision for most CT examinations and special procedures, while consulting with radiologists and the supervisor on more difficult problems. Work is spot-checked for achievement of objectives. The position works under the supervision of the Chief Radiologic Technologist or designee and collaborates closely with radiologists as part of the radiology team.

The role includes scheduling and prioritizing examinations to optimize scanner use while accommodating emergency cases; determining technical factors, positioning, and scan parameters; performing CT angiography and reconstructions; and assisting with CT-guided biopsies and aspirations. The technologist prepares contrast materials, may insert IV needles when necessary, monitors patients for reactions and physiologic changes, and responds to safety concerns and emergencies. The position also entails maintaining supplies, transmitting images and series to PACS, and following infection-control and safety policies.

The position is scheduled Monday through Friday, 12:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The vacancy is at the GS-08 level. Applicants must meet the stated U.S. citizenship, education, certification, credentialing, and English-proficiency requirements. CT assignments require advanced ARRT certification in CT; CPR certification is also required by the announcement.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship, subject to the stated exception for non-citizen appointments when qualified candidates cannot be recruited.
• General radiologic technology certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), Radiography (R).
• Advanced ARRT certification in CT for CT assignments involving independent duties.
• 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 from an eligible accredited program.
• Meet credentialing standards under 42 CFR Part 75 and maintain required certification; failure to obtain or maintain certification may result in removal from the occupation and possibly termination.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.
• CPR certification and recertification in accordance with American Heart Association guidelines, as stated in the duties.
• At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, demonstrating the clinical competencies described for that level.
• Ability to check systems for operation and assess performance against established guidelines.
• Knowledge of calibration parameters and ability to make adjustments as needed.
• Knowledge of patient clinical records, diagnoses, and laboratory results.
• Ability to monitor physiologic changes during procedures and keep the radiologist informed.
• Tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with patients, staff, families, visitors, volunteers, and other customers.
• Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, including recognizing unusual images and determining appropriate positioning.
• Pass a pre-employment physical evaluation and applicable background/security investigation; selected applicants in testing-designated positions are subject to pre-employment drug testing.
• Register with Selective Service if applicable and complete the required onboarding and application documentation.
• Serve a one- or two-year trial period, subject to the stated written certification for continued employment.

Responsibilities

• Schedule and prioritize CT examinations to optimize scanner availability while accommodating emergency cases.
• Consult radiologists regarding non-standard examinations and determine technical factors, positioning, number of scans, and scan thickness.
• Schedule patients and advise radiologists or referring physicians of examination results, including scans requiring immediate attention.
• Transmit images and associated series to PACS immediately upon completion.
• Perform computerized axial angiography examinations according to protocol and reconstruct CT angiography studies when requested or required by standard procedure.
• Assist radiologists with CT-guided biopsies and aspirations, including setting up equipment, preparing slides and specimens when laboratory personnel are unavailable, and delivering specimens to the laboratory service.
• Maintain and routinely stock CT supplies and related materials to ensure adequate inventory.
• Follow hospital infection-control and safety policies, including sterile technique, safe storage and disposal practices, appropriate attire, and handwashing.
• Collaborate with radiologists and anticipate their needs during CT examinations and special procedures.
• Maintain situational awareness of patient condition, protocols, equipment function, hazards, safety measures, and emergency procedures; recognize patient reactions and respond appropriately.
• Prepare contrast materials and insert IV needles for contrast administration when necessary.
• Monitor patients during procedures and keep the radiologist informed of physiologic changes.
• Check equipment systems for operation, assess performance, and make calibration adjustments as needed.
• Review patient clinical records, diagnoses, and laboratory results as relevant to examinations.
• Recognize unusual images, apply knowledge of anatomy and cross-sectional anatomy, and determine positioning to demonstrate areas of interest.

Benefits

• 37–50 days of annual paid time off per year, consisting of 13–26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid Federal holidays.
• Potential credit toward annual leave accrual based on prior work or military service, subject to approval.
• Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of employment, in connection with birth, adoption, or foster care placement.
• Eligible full-time employees may qualify for a childcare subsidy after 60 days of employment, subject to income and other eligibility limits.
• Traditional federal pension with five-year vesting.
• Federal 401(k), with VA contributions of up to 5%.
• Federal health, vision, dental, term life, and long-term care insurance; many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement.
• Competitive salary and regular salary increases.
• A higher step rate may be considered based on higher or unique qualifications or VA special needs.

What This Job Offers

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