Career Center

The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Computed Tomography performs as a fully functional Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist at the journeyman level (50%), with the added specialization of Computed Tomography (50%). Performs technical work in support of diagnostic radiology and computed tomography under the direction of a physician. Operates radiology equipment both mobile and fixed and assists the radiologist with fluoroscopic procedures as part of the diagnostic plan for patients. 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. English Proficiency: English Language Proficiency Requirement: Per VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Chapter 3, Section A, Paragraph 3j: No person will be appointed under authority of 38 U.S.C., chapter 73 or 74, to serve in a direct patient-care capacity in VHA who is not proficient in written and spoken English. 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). Licensure, Certification or Registration: A Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist will have a current, full, active and unrestricted registration with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Certification of computed tomography (CT) is required. 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. 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: In addition to meeting the basic requirements listed above, applicants must meet the grade requirements for 1 year equivalent to at least next lower grade level GS-8. Experience: At least one (1) year of experience equivalent to the GS-09 grade level in Federal Service, directly related to the position being filled, that demonstrates the clinical competencies needed to provide services as a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist. Examples of qualifying experience include, but are not limited to: Performs computed tomography of the head, neck, spine, chest and body with and without the use of contrast materials, including biopsies, interventional procedures and peripheral vascular examinations. Employee must be able to work independently and perform complex computed tomography exams without supervision. Work may be performed after hours and/or holidays with only off-site radiologist assistance available. Candidates must also demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs: *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions.vi. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. Preferred Experience: Applicant will have a minimum of three years experience performing CT exams. References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G25. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard. Physical Requirements: DRT's work requires long periods of standing and walking up to 8 hours. There is repeated bending, pushing / pulling, reaching above shoulders, use of both hands (hands and fingers), twisting and carrying of moderately heavy articles weighing from 15-44 pounds such as multiple cassettes, grids, as well as wearing lead aprons. Movement of moderately heavy equipment is generally power assisted such as portable machines. Positioning of patients who are disabled may require considerable effort and working in awkward positions. Heavy lifting of incapacitated patients is done only with help of other employees and devices provided by the Radiology Section. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. ["Employee performs general diagnostic radiography of the entire body. These exams are performed with and without the use of contrast materials. Performs computed tomography of the head, neck, spine, chest and body with and without the use of contrast materials. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment. Supports radiologist or other medical officers to produce radiographic studies used to diagnose medical conditions. Major Duties includes below but not limited to: Incumbent secures the confidence and cooperation of patients during procedures and explains procedures, positions patients for desired results, and uses cushions and shields for the patients as appropriate. Varies procedures or positions to adjust for patients' medical conditions. Administers contrast materials orally, by enema, and intravenously under general supervision. Performs general diagnostic radiographic exams of the head, spine (including myelography), chest, abdomen (including exams of GI tract, gallbladder, urinary system and fistula) and extremities (including arthrography). These are achieved by using diagnostic x-ray equipment such as fluoroscopic units, tomographic unit, and general diagnostic units, both digital and conventional. Performs 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. Performs computed tomography of the head, neck, spine, chest and body with and without the use of contrast materials, including biopsies, interventional procedures and peripheral vascular examinations. Employee must be able to work independently and perform complex computed tomography exams without supervision. Work may be performed after hours and/or holidays with only off-site radiologist assistance available. 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 which minimize patient dosage and reduce costs. Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that the patient understands what is to be done as well as what hazards, if any, is possible. May be required by procedure or patient's condition to monitor vital signs, recognize allergic reactions, and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Work Schedule: Most shifts are Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 4:00pm. This can change based on need at time of hire. Variable Shifts, On-Call, Overtime, Holidays and weekends may be required. Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

Return to Search Results