Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

US-Department-of-Veterans-Affair; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The United States Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist at GS-9 level. The incumbent will perform radiologic procedures and operate certification-required equipment, ensuring patient safety and image quality.

The role supports clinical teams and may involve specialty imaging as assigned. Applicants must hold ARRT Radiography certification, have completed a JRCERT-accredited program, and demonstrate English proficiency.

Qualifications

• Certification: ARRT in Radiography (R) is required; advanced certification for CT/MRI/Mammography may be needed.
• Education: 24-month post-high school radiologic technology program, accredited by JRCERT.
• Citizenship: United States citizen or eligible for appointment under VA policy.
• Language: Proficient in English both spoken and written.

Responsibilities

• Perform diagnostic radiologic procedures and operate imaging equipment.
• Maintain patient safety, adhere to QA/QC protocols, and document procedures.
• Collaborate with healthcare team and provide instruction when needed.

Skills

Patient-focused care

Advanced imaging readiness

Clinical decision making

First aid knowledge

Equipment safety

Education

ARRT Radiography certification (R)

JRCERT-accredited radiologic technology program

Job description

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).

Grade Determinations

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist GS-9

Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.

Employees at this level are fully functional as an advanced DRT and carry out their assigned tasks independently. DRTs at this level may have varying assignments including special and complex imaging procedures beyond the full performance level, clinical instruction, and basic QM type duties within the program. Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment, the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform at this level. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*).

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs:

1. *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures.
2. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers.
3. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure.
4. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography.
5. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions.
6. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients.

Preferred Experience

1 year experience is preferred.

Reference

For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-09. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-09.

Physical Requirements

This position requires moderate lifting and carrying, up to 45lbs; straight pulling (4 hours); pushing (4 hours); reaching at and above shoulders; use of both hands and fingers required; walking, sitting and/or standing (6- 8hours); ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously. Transferring patients and objects may be required. May be exposed to infected patients and contaminated materials and may be required to don protective clothing in isolation situations. May occasionally be exposed to patients who are combative secondary to delirium, dementia, or psychiatric disorders. Must be a mature, flexible, sensible individual capable of working effectively in stressful situations, able to shift priorities based on patient needs.