Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

Veterans Health Administration • Louisville, KY

7d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is in the Radiology Service at the Robley Rex VA Medical Center. The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist performs and coordinates diagnostic radiology examinations, with and without contrast materials, to produce images that support diagnosis and treatment. The position’s full performance level is GS-8; applicants may be selected at grades GS-5 through GS-8.

The technologist performs routine radiographic procedures, prepares contrast materials under radiologist direction, determines technical factors and positioning, and works with radiologists and other clinical staff on nonstandard or complex procedures. The role includes bedside and operating-room imaging, patient identification and communication, radiation safety, equipment and supply responsibilities, and maintaining a clean and sanitary work area. The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Telework is not available, and the position is not virtual.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship, subject to the stated VA policy exception for non-citizens when qualified citizens cannot be recruited.
• Certification in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R), except that eligible non-certified candidates may be considered for a temporary GS-5 graduate DRT appointment under the stated conditions.
• Completion of a full-time diagnostic radiologic technology training course of at least 24 months (or equivalent) after high school, evidenced by a certificate or associate degree and accredited by JRCERT or another accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.
• Meet grade-specific experience or education criteria for the selected grade: GS-5 requires no experience beyond basic requirements; GS-6 requires one year equivalent to GS-5 or one full academic year of qualifying graduate education; GS-7 requires one year equivalent to GS-6, qualifying graduate education, or the specified advanced registry and bachelor’s degree pathway; GS-8 requires one year equivalent to GS-7.
• Meet the demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities applicable to the selected grade, including relevant knowledge of radiographic technique, anatomy and positioning, patient safety, imaging equipment and systems, contrast materials, radiation protection, clinical records, patient monitoring, and customer relations.
• Pass a pre-employment physical evaluation or examination and complete required background/security investigation and onboarding steps.
• Participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
• Wear film badges in compliance with radiation regulations.
• Serve a one- or two-year trial period, as applicable, subject to the stated conditions for continued employment.

Responsibilities

• Perform and coordinate diagnostic radiology examinations, including procedures with and without contrast materials.
• Perform routine radiographic procedures using contrast materials or sterile techniques as required.
• Prepare contrast materials under radiologist direction for examinations such as IVP, cystogram, cholangiograms, fistulagrams, arthrography, and oral or rectal GI examinations; obtain patient consent for injected media.
• Determine technical factors and patient positioning to produce high-quality diagnostic images, and consult radiologists regarding nonstandard examinations.
• Verify patient and image identification, including checking the patient ID band against the request, verbally confirming the patient’s name and social security number, and using appropriate image markers.
• Perform radiographic examinations at the bedside and in operating or surgical suites for patients who cannot be imaged in the radiology department or require surgical imaging.
• Use portable x-ray equipment, mobile intensifier units, and other equipment as needed.
• Work with radiologists, surgeons, and other professional staff; anticipate technical difficulties and prepare trays, contrast, instruments, and equipment.
• Apply radiation safety practices, including minimizing exposure time, increasing distance, using shielding and collimation, and wearing film badges.
• Explain procedures and potential risks or hazards to competent patients in an understandable manner.
• Inventory and stock general radiography supplies and related materials.
• Perform or supervise routine housekeeping to keep the area clean and sanitary, and promptly report unsanitary conditions and equipment malfunctions to the supervisor.
• Comply with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards and perform duties with high standards of business integrity.
• Stay beyond the scheduled shift or return to work when requested during an emergency to support patient care.

Benefits

• 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 in connection with birth, adoption, or foster care placement.
• Eligible full-time employees may qualify for a child care subsidy after 60 days of employment, subject to income and other eligibility limits.
• Traditional federal pension with five-year vesting and a federal 401(k) with up to 5% in contributions by VA.
• 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: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree