Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography)

Veterans Health Administration • Boise, ID

5d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is in Medical Imaging Service at the Boise VA Medical Center in Boise, Idaho. The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist performs computed tomography (CT) examinations, determining technical factors, positioning, and scan number and thickness to meet examination requirements. The technologist advises radiologists or referring physicians of examination results and alerts them to scans requiring immediate attention. The role also includes preparing contrast materials, completing mandatory training to start IVs for intravenous contrast, and performing requested or standard CT reconstructions.

The technologist practices radiation safety to reduce exposure to patients, staff, and self, using protective equipment and measures such as lead aprons, gloves, shields, lead-lined walls, collimation, and film badges. They maintain examination records and files, register and edit patient exams in the computerized information system, and ensure images are correctly identified by matching the patient's ID band with the request and verbally confirming the patient's name and social security number. They explain procedures and obtain patient consent, helping patients understand what will be done and any potential hazards. The role meets customer needs while supporting VA missions.

The position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), subject to individual eligibility and program approval. The program may provide up to $200,000 in student loan repayment, with an eligibility period of one to five years. A sign-on bonus is authorized for highly qualified candidates. The regular work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; telework and virtual work are not available.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship, subject to the stated exception for non-citizens when qualified candidates cannot be recruited under VA policy.
• Certification in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R).
• Advanced ARRT certification for assignments that include independently performed CT duties, as applicable.
• Completion of a full-time post-high-school diagnostic radiologic technology training course of at least 24 months or equivalent, evidenced by a certificate or associate degree, from an appropriately accredited program.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English.
• At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, directly related to the position, demonstrating the required clinical competencies.
• Ability to balance patient and staff needs while performing complex scans and procedures.
• Knowledge of techniques for 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 methods and techniques, and universal precautions.
• Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural patient care.
• Compliance with VA pre-employment requirements, including background/security investigation, drug testing when applicable, and seasonal influenza vaccination.
• Must complete the required application and onboarding processes and serve a one- or two-year trial period.

Nice To Haves

• One year of experience in Computed Tomography.

Responsibilities

• Determine technical factors, patient positioning, and the number and thickness of scans to meet CT examination requirements.
• Advise radiologists or referring physicians of examination results and notify them of scans requiring immediate attention.
• Prepare contrast materials for CT and other examinations; complete mandatory training to start IVs for intravenous contrast administration.
• Practice radiation safety to reduce exposure to patients, staff, and self, including use of protective equipment and film badges.
• Perform CT reconstructions when requested or as part of standard procedures.
• Maintain patient examination records and files, including registering and editing exams in the computerized information system.
• Accurately identify patient images by matching the patient's ID band to the request and verbally confirming the patient's name and social security number.
• Explain examinations and obtain patient consent, including explaining the procedure and potential hazards.
• Meet customer needs while supporting VA missions.

Benefits

• Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), with a potential award of up to $200,000, subject to eligibility and approval.
• Sign-on bonus authorized for highly qualified candidates.
• Competitive salary and regular salary increases.
• 37–50 days of annual paid time off per year, including annual leave, sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
• Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of employment, subject to program terms.
• Child care subsidy may be available to eligible full-time employees after 60 days of employment, subject to income and other eligibility criteria.
• Traditional federal pension with five-year vesting and federal 401(k), with up to 5% in VA contributions.
• Federal health, vision, dental, term life, and long-term care insurance; many programs can be carried into retirement.

What This Job Offers

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