Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI)

Veterans Health Administration • North Chicago, IL

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist provides technical leadership and expertise in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), a specialty modality in the Imaging Department. The technologist independently performs routine and moderately complex MRI examinations under the general direction of the Chief of Imaging. The role includes managing patient imaging and MRI-related administrative work, operating MRI equipment, and using EHRM and PACS. The technologist also participates in designing and implementing new methods in the Imaging Department. On occasion, the incumbent may provide MRI coverage for on-call and after-hours shifts.

The position is based in the MRI department at the FHCC facility. The scheduled hours are full-time, 12:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Telework is unavailable, and this is not a virtual position.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship, except that non-citizens may be appointed when qualified U.S. citizens cannot be recruited in accordance with VA policy.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Certification in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT).
• Advanced ARRT certification in MRI.
• Completion of a full-time post-high-school diagnostic radiologic technology training program of at least 24 months or equivalent, evidenced by a certificate or associate degree, from a JRCERT-accredited program or an ARRT-accredited school; radiology certification by ARRT is also required.
• At least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-8 level, directly related to the position, demonstrating the clinical competencies described for that level.
• Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while performing complex scans and procedures.
• Skill in gathering relevant information from medical records, significant others, and health care providers.
• Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate a procedure.
• Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life-support practices related to radiography.
• Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous skills, and universal precautions.
• Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural patient care.
• Must meet MRI safety standards to access Zone 4 when necessary.
• Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation and background/security investigation; applicants tentatively selected for a testing-designated position are subject to urinalysis screening.
• Must participate in the VA seasonal influenza vaccination program.
• Must serve a one- or two-year trial period.
• Must submit required application documents, including certification and transcripts as applicable.

Nice To Haves

• One year of Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist experience (preferred but not required).
• ARRT MRI certification is listed as preferred experience.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform routine and moderately complex MRI examinations.
• Provide technical leadership and expertise in MRI within the Imaging Department.
• Manage patient imaging and administrative work related to MRI patient care and studies.
• Use MRI equipment, EHRM, and PACS.
• Participate in the design and implementation of new methods in the Imaging Department.
• Provide MRI coverage for on-call and after-hours shifts when required.
• Assist with moving and positioning patients using safe patient-handling techniques when necessary.
• Operate equipment safely and follow infection-control and MRI safety requirements.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and regular salary increases; a higher step rate may be considered for higher or unique qualifications or VA special needs.
• 37–50 days of annual paid time off per year, comprising 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.
• Potential childcare subsidy after 60 days for eligible full-time employees with qualifying family income, covering up to 25% of eligible childcare costs, subject to the stated monthly maximum.
• Traditional federal pension with five-year vesting and a federal 401(k) with up to 5% in VA contributions.
• Federal health, vision, dental, term life, and long-term care insurance; many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement.

What This Job Offers

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