Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Coatesville (Chester County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist/Radiation Safety Officer to lead their Radiation Safety Program. This role is crucial for maintaining safety standards and compliance with regulations in the use of radiation. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in radiologic technology, including certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technology. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to patient safety and care in a dynamic healthcare environment. If you are passionate about radiologic safety and technology, this is the perfect role for you.

Qualifications

• Certification in general radiologic technology by ARRT required.
• Completion of a 24-month accredited training program in radiologic technology.

Responsibilities

• Implement and direct the Medical Center's Radiation Safety Program.
• Ensure compliance with all procedures and regulations regarding radiation use.

Skills

Knowledge of radiation protection standards

Advanced imaging software utilization

Patient positioning for imaging studies

Basic physics knowledge

Education

Associate degree in diagnostic radiologic technology

BS degree in Health Physics (preferred)

Tools

Radiologic technology equipment

Imaging software

Job description

The Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT)/ Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) position has the primary responsibility of implementing and directing the Medical Center's Radiation Safety Program. It applies conventional methods to control radiation hazards. The radiation safety officer ensures that the facility operates in compliance with all procedures and regulations imposed by law regarding the safe use of radiation.

Duties

Major duties include, but are not limited to:

Requirements

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).
• Education: Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months 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 recognized by the Department of Education (DOE).

Grandfathering Provision: All persons employed in VHA as a DRT on the effective date of this qualification standard are considered to have met all qualifications requirements for this title, series, and grade held, including positive education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the DRT occupation. For employees who do not meet all of the basic requirements but who met the qualifications applicable at the time of appointment, certain provisions apply regarding reassignments, promotions, and credentials maintenance.

Note: Each uncertified VHA DRT employed on June 21, 1986, whose competence was affirmed in writing by a VA licensed physician by January 1, 1987, is considered fully qualified. Such employees may be promoted or reassigned within the series. Employees leaving this series lose protected status and must meet current standards upon reentry.

Grade Determinations: In addition to basic requirements, candidates must meet the following criteria when determining grade level.

GS-10 Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

Experience: At least one year of experience at the next lower grade level demonstrating clinical competencies.

The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs:

• Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices, and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes.
• Ability to utilize advanced imaging software supporting complex imaging programs and recognize equipment and procedural changes that might increase exposures, with methods to prevent such exposures.
• Knowledge of basic physics including energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and x-ray properties to understand equipment operation.
• Knowledge and skill in patient positioning for complex imaging studies (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography).

Preferred Experience: ARRT certification in radiology (R) and Computed Tomography (CT), along with a BS degree in Health Physics or certification by the American Board of Health Physics or the National Registry of Radiation Protection Technologists, is preferred.

Reference: For more information, visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-10.

Physical Requirements: The work involves heavy lifting (45 pounds and over), moderate carrying (15-44 pounds), pushing (up to 4 hours), reaching above shoulder, use of fingers, prolonged walking and standing, repeated bending, rapid mental and muscular coordination, far vision (correctable to 20/20), ability to distinguish basic colors, hearing (aid permitted), speed in working, and emotional stability. Ability to work while wearing a lead apron for extended periods is required.