Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Tech (Mammography/Bone Densitometry/X-Ray)

Summary

Employees are trained to work in one or more difficult and complex modalities performing procedures related to these modalities as well as performing general diagnostic procedures.

At this grade level, any assignment in a single modality must demonstrate significant complexity. Such assignments are unique, perhaps with expert specialization in complex areas of radiologic technology, Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) regulations, and intermediate QM type duties within the program.

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Overview

• Accepting applications

• Open & closing dates

04/22/2024 to 05/01/2024

• Salary

$70,332 - $91,429 per year

• Pay scale & grade

GS 10

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Location

1 vacancy in the following location:

• West Palm Beach, FL 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

None

• 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

Suitability/Fitness

• Announcement number

CBTC-12393105-24-KLJ

• Control number

787849600

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This job is open to

• The public

U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Clarification from the agency

This vacancy announcement is opened to US citizens. Current, permanent Federal Employees may apply to the internal announcement, CBTC-12393106-24-KLJ. There is NO need to apply for both, please.

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Duties

Duties are, but not limited to:

a. Technologist is responsible for the Medical Center's Mammography Quality Control program.

b. Recommendations to supervisor concerning developments that would improve operations.

c. Performs diagnostic and screening mammograms, breast biopsies/needle localizations and specialized views as required by the Radiologist.

d. Technologist will request previous mammograms from the indicated facility as specified by the patient, assist with scheduling of appointments, sending appointment and result letters.

e. Technologist will operate all radiographic, fluoroscopic, mammography and bone densitometry equipment; perform all types of radiographic, tomographic, fluoroscopic, mammography, and bone densitometry procedures. Technologist will independently perform examinations of the head, entire

spine, chest, abdomen, and extremities, using direct radiography (DR).

f. Technologist will operate portable units; Independently perform all types of portable procedures at the bedside and in the operating rooms.

g. All examinations are processed digitally. This work includes computer manipulation (window/level), correct orientation of the images (hanging protocol), patient acquisition through work list and releasing images to storage system (PACS) and burning of images to CD.

h. Works closely with the professional staff involved in radiographic and fluoroscopic examinations.

i. Technologist will rotate into different radiography rooms, including mammography and bone densitometry rooms periodically to maintain knowledge of all procedures and equipment.

j. Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist for the purpose of performing exams requiring injectable solutions such as IVP, cystogram, cholangiograms fistulagrams and arthrography and for the purpose of performing oral and rectal exams of the GI tract. In the case of injected media, a patient consent form must be obtained.

k. 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.

l. Technologist may be required to coordinate work activities of lower grade technologist/students and /or provide guidance as necessary to assure completion of complex examinations.

m. Technologist will perform PACS duties including identifying films, linking exam folders, proper use of annotation on the exam, proper window leveling, documenting fluoroscopy doses on an electronic log sheet and proper image orientation.

n. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients.

o. Maintains electronic records and files of exams performed on patients.

p. Confirms patient identity by verbally confirming two approved patient identifiers (such as patient name and full date of birth). Properly identifies patient images.

q. Technologist is required to keep abreast of current technical literature and evaluate new procedures and techniques for the purpose of recommending for consideration changes to the current practices. Technologist will assist in training and orientation.

r. Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that the patient understands what is to be done and what, if any, potential adverse effects may be possible.

s. Responsible for cleanliness and stocking adequate levels of supplies in assigned areas. Must report equipment malfunction in a timely manner.

t. Maintains current Basic Life Support (BLS) and American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) credentialing as required.

u. Technologist transmits and receive-mail through Microsoft Outlook and GUI mail.

v. Practice's infection control according to the Radiology Department policy and facility MCM. Utilizes PPE as necessary.

w. Practice's radiation safety to reduce exposure to patient, staff, and self.

This is achieved using lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls, and collimation. The technologist to assure compliance to radiation regulations wears film badges.

x. Complies with all safety/fire prevention rules/regulations, using protective equipment when required and provided. Promptly reports all accidents.

y. Move wheelchair and stretcher patients safely using ergonomic methods of patient transfer, such as sit to stand, ceiling mounted lifts.

z. Incumbent must be professional, cooperative and be able to work with other employees. Help other technologists when necessary.

aa. Makes appropriate status change in the consult package.

bb. Flexible and knowledgeable in basic procedures in patient reception and file room, providing basic coverage for these areas when necessary.

cc. Required to work in an after hour on-call standby status. This requires that the technologist be available within 45 minutes from receipt of the call.

Work Schedule: Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm

Telework: Not available

Functional Statement #: 000000

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

Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.

Basic Requirements:

• United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.

• 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).

• 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). Note: This position is above journey level for this series. Details on grandfathering are located in the instruction section of the assessment questionnaire.

Grade Requirements: In addition to the basic requirements, eligible applicants must also meet the grade level requirements.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-10

(1) Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.

(2) Assignments. For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), and range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. DRTs at this grade level may be appointed to one of the following assignments:

Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist. Employees are trained to work in one or more difficult and complex modalities performing procedures related to these modalities as well as performing general diagnostic procedures.

At this grade level, any assignment in a single modality must demonstrate significant complexity. Such assignments are unique, perhaps with expert specialization in complex areas of radiologic technology, Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) regulations, and intermediate QM type duties within the program.

The candidate must demonstrate (on the resume) all of the following technical KSAs:

i. Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes.

ii. Ability to utilize advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recognize changes in equipment and procedures that might result in increased exposures, and ability to recommend methods to prevent such exposures.

iii. Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of x-ray, to understand the operation of the equipment.

iv. Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies.

References: VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 10. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS 10.

Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work include: Heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds;

pushing up to 4 hours; reaching above shoulder; use of fingers, good dexterity (both hands required); prolonged walking, prolonged standing; repeated bending; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20; ability to distinguish basic colors; hearing (aid permitted); speed in working; and emotional stability. Must have the ability to stand and work while wearing a lead apron for possibly long periods of time.

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: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. 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. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.

Additional information

Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee.

Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.

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 1193.01, 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. Opens in a new window

Learn more about federal benefits.

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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.