Summary
This Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) - Mammography Technologist position is assigned to the Michael E.. DeBakey VA Medical Center - Radiology Service - Mammography section within the facility.
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.
- English Language Proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d) - and 7407(d).
- 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 as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE).
- Licensure/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.
- Advanced certification indicates that the incumbent can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and passed the designated examination.
- For modalities requiring advanced certification, technologists without it may receive on-the-job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist.
- May qualify based on the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard (applicable to current VHA employees in this occupation).
- Mammography (M): The specialty involves complex imaging of the breast, including magnification views and implant views, adhering to FDA guidelines, radiation safety, and quality assurance requirements.
- The position requires compliance with the Mammography Quality Standards Act of 1992 (MQSA) and regulation by the FDA.
- Assignments involving independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT (M) certification.
- Grade Determination: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade demonstrating the required clinical competencies.
- Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of radiation protection standards, ability to utilize advanced imaging software, understanding of basic physics, patient positioning skills for complex imaging modalities.
- Preferred Experience: 1-2 years of mammography and breast procedures experience, QA/QC testing, and documentation.
- Reference: More info at https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/
- Full performance level: GS10.
- Physical Requirements: Primarily sedentary work with periods of standing, walking, bending, twisting, and lifting light items.
Duties
- This is an open continuous announcement until September 30, 2025, or until filled. The initial referral cut-off is March 31, 2024, with reviews every 2 weeks.
- The position involves comprehensive breast imaging, QA/QC, compliance with regulations, and collaboration with staff to ensure high-quality diagnostics and patient satisfaction.
- Work hours vary, including weekends and holidays, as dictated by clinic needs.
- Other benefits include competitive salary, paid time off, parental leave, childcare subsidy, and federal retirement plans. Telework is not authorized.