Summary
The Diagnostic Imaging Service is seeking a part‑time Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist MR for the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center in Charleston, South Carolina.
Qualifications
- 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).
- Certification: All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology – Radiography (ARRT) and hold an advanced ARRT certification in MR.
- Education: Completion of an at least 24‑month full‑time training course or equivalent in a post‑high‑school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or associate degree accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or other recognized accrediting agencies.
- Grandfathering Provision: May qualify based on coverage under the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation, applicable only to current VHA employees who meet the criteria.
- Grade Determinations – GS‑10: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level directly related to the position, demonstrating the required clinical competencies.
- Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
- Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices, techniques, and dose monitoring.
- Ability to use advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recommend methods to reduce exposure.
- Knowledge of basic physics: energy, magnetic fields, properties of X‑ray.
- Skill in positioning patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging modalities.
Physical Requirements
Heavy lifting (45 lb. and over), reaching above shoulder, use of fingers, both hands required, walking 6 hrs, standing 8 hrs, visual and hearing requirements as described above, emotional and mental stability.
Duties
- Operate 1.5T and 3 Tesla Magnet Systems, performing routine and complex MRI examinations.
- Perform a variety of routine and complex MRI exams (e.g., vascular, neuro, musculoskeletal, elastography, cardiac).
- Demonstrate knowledge of cross‑sectional human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.
- Specialize in radiofrequency surface coils for specific anatomical areas.
- Monitor radiofrequency power delivered to tissue (SAR).
- Set up and position patients, provide immobilization devices, and select appropriate technical factors.
- Perform post‑processing reconstructions as required.
- Administer contrast material based on protocols, follow contrast policy, and maintain competency with contrast injectors.
- Perform venipuncture with proper intravenous catheter selection, identify and treat extravasation, and respond to allergic reactions to contrast.
- Adhere to VHA Directives, MR safety regulations, and facility policies.
- Maintain yearly competencies including MRT Level I and MRI Level II training.
- Screen all individuals and equipment entering Zone III and Zone IV.
Benefits & Compensation
- Work schedule: Saturday and Sunday, 7 am–5 pm.
- Competitive salary with regular increases; step rate may be adjusted for higher qualifications.
- Paid Time Off: 37–50 days of annual paid leave per year (13–26 days annual leave; 13 days sick leave; 11 paid federal holidays).
- Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment – up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
- Child Care Subsidy: Eligible after 60 days of employment for family income below $144,000; up to 25 % of eligible childcare costs, capped monthly at $416.66.
- Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5‑year vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5 % VA contributions.
- Insurance: Federal health, vision, dental, term life, long‑term care, etc., carried into retirement.
- Telework: Not available; this is not a virtual position.
- Recruitment Incentive: None.
- Permanent Change of Station: Not authorized.
- Relocation Assistance: Not authorized.