Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

Veterans Health Administration • Cincinnati, OH

1d • Onsite

About The Position

This Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT), Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) position is assigned to the Radiology Service’s CT and MRI sections at the Cincinnati VA Medical Center. The technologist is fully functional and carries out assigned tasks independently, working in CT and MRI at least 25% of the time. The role requires advanced knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy and its application to spiral and/or multislice CT, including 3-D reconstruction, drainages, biopsies, and peripheral vascular examinations. The technologist evaluates examination requests, identifies organs and systems in imaging, assesses image acceptability for diagnosis, and emphasizes areas of particular interest to the physician.

The position requires advanced ARRT certification in CT and MRI. The technologist performs CT and MRI imaging and interventional CT procedures, prepares contrast materials under radiologist direction, and is certified to insert IV needles for contrast administration. The role also includes MRI safety, sterile technique for CT biopsy examinations, equipment operation, safety compliance, and maintenance of electronic patient examination records.

The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with rotating call and holidays. This is not a virtual position. The full performance level is GS-10.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship, except where appointment of a non-citizen is permitted under VA policy when qualified citizens cannot be recruited.
• Certification in general radiologic technology by ARRT (R).
• Advanced ARRT certification in CT and MRI for the assigned modalities.
• 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, from a JRCERT-accredited program or another DOE-recognized accrediting agency.
• At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, directly related to the position, demonstrating the required clinical competencies.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices, and techniques, including accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes.
• Ability to use advanced imaging software and recognize equipment or procedural changes that could increase exposure, and recommend ways to prevent such exposures.
• Knowledge of basic physics, including energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and x-ray properties.
• Knowledge and skill in positioning patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging studies.
• Maintain BLS certification.
• Pass a pre-employment physical evaluation or examination and required background/security investigation.
• Complete pre-employment onboarding requirements, including required identification and application documents; selected applicants in testing-designated positions are subject to pre-appointment urinalysis.
• Participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
• Serve a one- or two-year trial period.
• Meet the physical demands of the work, including heavy lifting of 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying of 15–44 pounds; pushing for up to four hours; reaching above the shoulder; finger use and dexterity in both hands; prolonged walking and standing; repeated bending; rapid coordinated mental and muscular activity; correctable far vision to 20/20 in one eye; basic color discrimination; hearing (hearing aid permitted); speed in working; emotional stability; and ability to work while wearing a lead apron, potentially for long periods.

Responsibilities

• Operate a wide variety of imaging equipment accurately.
• Perform all aspects of CT and MRI imaging.
• Perform all aspects of CT interventional radiography.
• Perform CT angiography of the Circle of Willis, carotids, abdominal aortas, and run-offs; perform CT cardiac imaging if cardiac-trained; and perform CT myelography using specialized series.
• Prepare contrast materials under the direction of a radiologist.
• Insert IV needles for administration of contrast material.
• Perform interventional CT biopsy examinations using surgical sterile techniques.
• Apply knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy and physiology, including the location, appearance, and function of body systems and organs.
• Interpret examination requests, identify organs on digital displays or film, assess image acceptability for diagnostic use, and emphasize areas of interest to the physician.
• Maintain competency in all aspects of MRI safety.
• Comply with safety and fire-prevention rules and regulations.
• Maintain electronic records and files of patient examinations.
• Maintain BLS certification on a bi-annual basis and remain in compliance.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and regular salary increases; a higher step rate may be considered for higher or unique qualifications or VA needs.
• 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.
• Potential child care subsidy for eligible full-time employees after 60 days of employment, subject to income and eligibility limits.
• Traditional federal pension with five-year vesting.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

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