Diagnostic Radiologic Tech (General/Fluoroscopy)

Summary

DRTs at this level independently performs difficult complex radiographic examination procedures. These exams are achieved by using diagnostic x-ray equipment such as fluoroscopic units, and general diagnostic units.

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Overview

• Accepting applications

• Open & closing dates

04/22/2024 to 05/07/2024

• Salary

$47,433 - $72,810 per year

• Pay scale & grade

GS 5 - 8

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Location

2 vacancies in the following location:

• West Palm Beach, FL

• 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

Suitability/Fitness

• Announcement number

CBTC-12391692-24-KLJ

• Control number

787819500

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This job is open to

• Internal to an agency

Current federal employees of this agency.

Clarification from the agency

This vacancy announcement is opened to current, permanent Department of Veterans Affairs employees only. NOTE: Federal employees are required to submit their most recent, non-award SF 50 from their eOPF with their application package.

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Duties

Duties are, but not limited to:

a. Technologist will operate all radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment; perform all types of radiographic, tomographic and fluoroscopic procedures.

b. Technologist will rotate into different radiography rooms in order to maintain knowledge of all procedures and equipment.

c. Technologist will independently perform examinations of the head, entire spine, chest, abdomen and extremities.

d. Assist radiologists in the difficult complex fluoroscopic examinations.

e. 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.

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

g. 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.

h. Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patient, staff and self. This is achieved by the use of lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls and collimation.

i. Flexible and knowledgeable in basic procedures in patient reception and file room, providing basic coverage for these areas when necessary. Recording pertinent data for electronic work orders

j. Performs imaging exams using direct radiography (DR). All examinations are processed digitally.

k. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. Edits when necessary ,registers patients in the computerized Radiology Information System (RIS) as well as the work list management portion of the HIS-RIS interface (VISTA). Presents completed examinations for interpretation, entering all pertinent information on records as well as documenting fluoroscopy doses on an electronic log sheet.

l. Confirms patient identity by verbally confirming two approved patient identifiers (such as patient name and full date of birth). Properly identifies patient images. This is essential so that images are matched to the correct patient and sent to the correct electronic record, and to insure the correct exam is performed on the correct patient.

m. Technologist are 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 of new technologist and/or students in procedures and equipment.

n. 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. May be required by procedure or patient's condition to monitor vital signs, recognize allergic reactions and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

o. Performs portable radiographic exams at the bedside and in the operating rooms providing diagnostic x-rays to the surgeons and professional staff on patients that are unable to be x-rayed in the Radiology Service due to incapacity or surgical procedures.

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

q. Incumbent must be professional, cooperative and be able to work with other employees. Help other technologists when necessary, i.e. difficult or uncooperative patient, heavy workload, etc. Maintain and encourage an environment of teamwork and a positive workplace.

r. Maintains current Basic Life Support (BLS) and American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) credentialing as required. Maintains current Talent Management System (TMS) training as required.

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

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

Work Schedule: Full Time, 1 position for Sunday through Thursday from 3:30 pm to Midnight. 1 position for Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 1:30 pm to Midnight.

Telework: Not available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 04320F

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

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: Details on the Grandfathering Provision are listed in the Assessment Questionnaire section of this announcement.

Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates.

General Radiologic Technology (R).

DRTs perform procedures and examinations in hospitals or clinics under the direction of radiologists and other medical officers. The objective of the examinations and procedures is to produce radiographic studies that are used in medical diagnosis and interpreted by medical officers to locate injuries, foreign bodies, pathological conditions, or lesions within the body. They prepare and administer contrast media and medications in accordance with State and Federal regulations. All DRTs must be knowledgeable in computerized [and digital radiography (CR/DR),] and picture archiving and communications systems (PACS).

Diagnostic Radiologic Technician, GS-5

• Experience or Education. None beyond the basic requirements.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-6

• 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. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate (ON THE RESUME) all of the following KSAs:

(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.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-7

• 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. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate (ON THE RESUME) all of the following KSAs:

(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.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-8

• 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. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate (ON THE RESUME) all of the following KSAs:

(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.

References: ???????VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25.

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS 5 to GS 8.

Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.

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

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.