Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Spokane, United States - Department of Veterans Affairs

Description

Summary

Incumbent is the designated General Radiologic Technologist responsible for the performance and coordination of all gastrointestinal (GI) and fluoroscopic x-ray procedures, joint and pain injections, surgical radiographs, barium enemas, Upper GI's and general radiographs.

The incumbent must have a current ARRT license.

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Overview

• Accepting applications
• Open & closing dates

05/09/2024 to 05/23/2024

• Salary

$52,545 - $89,718 per year

GS5:
$52,545 - $68,304/// GS6: $58,574 - $76,148/// GS7: $65,089 - $84,618/// GS8 $69,015 - $89,718

• Pay scale & grade

GS 00

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Location

1 vacancy in the following location:

• Spokane, WA 1 vacancy
• Remote job

No

• Telework eligible

No

• Travel Required

Not required

• Relocation expenses reimbursed

No

• Appointment type

Permanent

• Work schedule

Full-time

• Service

Excepted

• Promotion potential

8

• Job family (Series)

0647 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

• Supervisory status

No

• Security clearance

Other

• Drug test

Yes

• Position sensitivity and risk

Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk

• Trust determination process

Credentialing

Suitability/Fitness

• Announcement number

CBSV JKC

• Control number

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This job is open to

• Internal to an agency

Current federal employees of this agency.

• Federal employees - Competitive service

Current or former competitive service federal employees.

• Federal employees - Excepted service

Current excepted service federal employees.

Clarification from the agency

The area of consideration will be referred in the following order: 1. Current permanent Facility employees 2. Current permanent Agency (Department of Veterans Affairs) employees 3. Current permanent employees of other Federal agencies

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Duties

Duties will vary based on grade.

At the GS-8 full performance level of this assignment, incumbent is the designated General Radiologic Technologist responsible for the performance and coordination of all gastrointestinal (GI) and fluoroscopic x-ray procedures, joint and pain injections, surgical radiographs, barium enemas, Upper GI's and general radiographs.

The incumbent must have a current ARRT license.


Duties may include:
a. Responsible for maximizing utilization of fluoroscopic exam rooms.

Identifies scheduled procedures for the following day and plans and coordinates activities around physician availability in order to maximize room effectiveness.

b.

Provides periodic written reports of accomplishments, statistical data for quality assurance, proposals for improved effectiveness, cost containment, state of equipment, and equipment needs to supervisor.

c.

Assists the Radiology Supervisor in handling all complaints and requests from physicians and other hospital personnel for procedures included in this area.

Works closely with other departmental personnel in coordinating and integrating departmental activities.

d. The incumbent is responsible for the state of equipment in this area at all times. The technologist must report equipment malfunction in a timely manner, including putting in electronic work orders. The incumbent must have the ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines.

e.

Responsible for the clerk's checking with the nursing floors to ensure that patients scheduled for fluoroscopy are not delayed or cancelled for the following day because of lack of planning, preparation, or difficulty with patient delivery.

f. Properly identifies patient images using computerized work list and left and right markers. This is essential so that mistaken identity of images to patients does not occur. The technologist must be certain that the patient ID band and the request are identical. Each pt. is identified by 2 identifiers (Full name, birthdate or VA identification card)

g.

Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that the patient understands what is to be done as well as what hazards, if any, are possible.

May be required by procedure or patient's condition to monitor vital signs, recognize allergic reactions and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The incumbent must have knowledge of the patient's clinical record, diagnosis and laboratory results.

The incumbent must have the ability to monitor the patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed.

h.

Responsible to the radiologists and supervisor for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed to assure a high level of acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs.

i. Practices radiation safety to reduce exposure to patients, staff and self. This is achieved using lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls and collimation. Film badges are worn by the technologist to assure compliance to radiation regulations.

The incumbent must also be aware of and practice the safety policies and procedures of the medical center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed.

The incumbent must have knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to adjust as needed.

j.

The incumbent must be knowledgeable in Computerized Radiography (CR), Digital Radiography (DR) and be familiar with local PACS (Picture Achieving Communications System) and tele radiography.

The incumbent will also be familiar with the use and operation of the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.

k. Performs routine diagnostic x-ray procedures when required. Operates the digital fluoro unit in the endoscopy and surgical suite when assigned by supervisor.

l. Incumbent must be professional, cooperative and be able to work with other employees.

The incumbent must have skill in using tact, diplomacy and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors and volunteers.

m. Will be required to be on call for General Radiography and be included in Holiday rotation schedule.

n. May be required to schedule patients into desired clinics.

o.

The incumbent must have knowledge of anatomy and physiology recognizing unusual images and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest.

p.

The incumbent will be required to prepare and administer contrast media and medications in accordance to State and Federal regulations.

q. May be required to assist with clerical duties of the Diagnostic Imaging Department in times of decreased patient volume.


Work Schedule:
M-F, 10:30am-7pm.


Telework:
Not Available


Virtual:
This is not a virtual position.


Relocation/Recruitment Incentives:
Not Authorized

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized


Financial Disclosure Report:
Not required

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Requirements

Conditions of Employment

• You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
• All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
• Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
• Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
• You may be required to serve a probationary period.
• Subject to background/security investigation.
• Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
• Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
• Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
• Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.

Basic Requirements:

• Citizenship. Be a citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3g.)
• Certification. All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R). Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), [or Mammography (M) duties performed independently, as applicable]. Advanced certification indicates that the incumbent [can operate independently] and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination. [In modalities that require advanced certification, to support their continued development, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist.]
• Education. Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from [other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE).]
• Credentialing Standards. Public Law 97-35, the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75, Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs and the Credentialing of Radiographic Personnel. Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field.
• Exception for Non-Certified, Entry Level Candidates. Non-certified DRTs who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for ARRT (R) certification may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate DRT under the authority of 38 U.S.C. § 7405(c)(2)(B). The appointing official may waive the requirement of certification for a period not to exceed two years for a DRT that provides care under the supervision of a certified DRT at or above the full performance level. This exception only applies at the GS-5 entry level technician. For grade levels above the entry level, the candidate must be certified. Temporary appointments of non-certified DRTs may not be extended beyond two years or converted to a new temporary appointment.
• Loss of Credential. An employee in this occupation who fails to obtain certification within two years, or who fails to maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation, which may also result in termination of employment.
• Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
• English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d).

May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).

Grade Determinations:

GS5 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist:

Experience or Education:
None beyond the basic requirements.


GS6 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist:

Experience or Education:

At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level or the successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
(a) Knowledge of basic technique standards for minimum radiographic exposure.

(b) Knowledge of anatomy and positioning.

(c) Knowledge of all patient safety procedures.

(d) Knowledge of radiographic producing equipment.

(e) Ability to learn basic computer functions.


GS7 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist:

Experience or Education:

At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level; or the successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging; or successful completion of an advanced registry program, with certification, in addition to a 4-year baccalaureate degree program in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging.

Education may relate to the duties of a specific position or to the occupation but must be appropriate for the position being filled.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
(a) Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system.

(b) Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study.

(c) Knowledge of radiation protection standards, minimum radiographic exposure techniques, appropriate beam limitation to anatomical area, and employing lead shielding when performing standard radiographic and fluoroscopic procedures.

(d) Knowledge of computed radiography, CR readers and Digital Imaging systems.

(e) Knowledge of PACS and basic computer skills.


GS8 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist:

Experience:

At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
(a) Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines.

(b) Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed.

(c) Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results.

(d) Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed.

(e) Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers.

(f) Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest.

Preferred Experience:
3 years general radiography experience preferred. Knowledge of fluoroscopy exams, sterile technique, and ability to run surgical c-arms.

References:
VHA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G25, qualifications for Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist.

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8.

The actual grade at which an applicant maybe selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-5 to GS-8.

Physical Requirements:

Moderate Lifting pounds), Reaching above shoulder, Use of Finger, Walking (2hours), Standing (4hours), Kneeling (1hours), Repeated bending (2hours), Depth perception, Ability to distinguish basic colors, Hearing (aid may be permitted).

Environment Factors:
Radiant energy, Electrical energy, working around machinery with moving parts, working closely with others, working alone.

Education


IMPORTANT:

A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.

Note:
Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment.

You can verify your education here:
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education


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Additional information

This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.

This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.

VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply.

The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.

Pursuant to VHA Directive , VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy).

VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations.

If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date.

The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.

If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.

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• Benefits

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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package.

As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding.

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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent.

Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social).

Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.

You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.

It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.

Veterans and Transitioning Service Members:

Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.