Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Memphis (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A federal health agency is seeking a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist in Memphis, TN. The role involves performing diagnostic exams while ensuring patient safety and complying with health regulations. Applicants should hold relevant certifications and possess strong technical skills. The position requires interaction with patients and collaboration with radiologists. Work hours are Tuesday to Saturday. Compensation is based on experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• Must be proficient in spoken and written English.
• Must be a United States citizen.
• Must successfully complete a health examination.

Responsibilities

• Perform radiographic examinations of patients for diagnosis.
• Troubleshoot radiologic equipment and ensure safety protocols are followed.
• Maintain records of exams and patient information.

Skills

Technical skills in radiologic technology

Patient communication

Attention to detail

Knowledge of radiation safety

Education

Certification in radiologic technology (ARRT)

Completion of a 24-month training program

Tools

Radiology Information System (RIS)

Portable x-ray units

Job description

Summary

This position is assigned to the Radiology Service at the Memphis VA. This technologist will perform a wide range of diagnostic radiologic exams including, but not limited to extremities, chest, abdomen, spine, fluoroscopy, operating room, and portable radiology exams. The technologist works independently, but general supervision is provided by the Radiology supervisor.

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)
• Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or mammography duties performed independently – as applicable
• Education
• Completion of a full‑time training course of at least 24 months in a post‑high‑school diagnostic radiologic technology program – evidence by certificate or an associate degree accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or other recognized agencies
• English Language Proficiency
• DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d) – and 7407(d)
• May qualify based on the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only for current VHA employees who meet the criteria)
• Grade Determinations: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist – GS‑8: staff DRTs at the full performance level
• Candidates at this grade must be qualified to independently provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology with occasional oversight for highly complex issues; experience – at least two years equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level
• Demonstrated Knowledge – Skills and Abilities: the candidate must demonstrate technical KSAs and the potential to acquire assignment‑specific KSAs, including system checks, calibration, patient record knowledge, monitoring physiologic changes, diplomacy in customer interactions, anatomy and physiology knowledge, and image positioning
• Preferred Experience: 2 years experience preferred
• The full performance level of this vacancy is GS‑8. Physical requirements: must be able to lift, stand, bend, transfer, stoop, stretch, walk, push, and pull without assistance
• A health examination must be successfully completed prior to this assignment and periodically thereafter as required by the Employee Health Clinic policy

Duties

• This position is located within Radiology Services at Lt. Col. Luke Weathers Jr. VA Medical Center – Memphis – TN and performs duties as a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist
• Duties include serving as entry‑level through full‑performance DRT and explaining exams to patients in understandable terms, including potential hazards
• They troubleshoot equipment, exercise extreme caution in handling radiation‑producing equipment, and report major equipment malfunctions promptly to service representatives and assist higher‑graded technicians with complicated examinations
• They receive guidance from more experienced staff for complex patient issues and require direct supervision for general radiologic technology assignments
• Perform radiographic examinations of the skull, torso, and extremities or routine physical examinations for diagnosis of illness or injuries, including patients with severe injuries, limited cooperation, paraplegic/quadriplegic status, or deformities
• Collaborate with higher‑grade technologists or radiologists on complex procedures such as carotid angiography or contrast studies of the venous or arterial system
• Perform radiographic exams at the bedside and in operating rooms, providing diagnostic x‑rays to surgeons and staff for patients unable to be x‑rayed in the Radiology Service; use portable x‑ray units and mobile fluoroscopic units
• Operate the fluoroscopic unit in the cysto suite upon request
• Responsible to radiologists and supervisors for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed, ensuring high acceptability while minimizing patient dosage and reducing costs
• Practice radiation safety to reduce exposure to patient, staff, and self, using lead aprons, gloves, shields, lead‑lined walls, collimation, and film badges
• Adhere to safety policies and participate in quality assurance activities as directed
• Maintain records and files of exams performed, editing and registering patients in the computerized Radiology Information System (RIS) and the HIS‑RIS interface, and properly identify the patient and the image with left/right markers to avoid mistaken identity
• Ensure the patient ID band and the request are identical, and explain exams to competent patients
• May monitor vital signs, recognize allergic reactions, and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation if required
• Monitor equipment for proper operation, make minor adjustments, and report malfunctions to supervisor or Biomedical Engineer
• Maintain required supplies in the radiographic room in a neat and orderly manner, ensuring sterile supplies, contrast material, catheters, or other required supplies are adequate and within use‑by dates
• Be professional, cooperative, and able to work with other employees; required to take calls
• May be required to perform duties at both the Lt. Col. Luke Weathers Jr. VAMC and satellite clinic locations, and may be required to travel
• Work Schedule: Tuesday‑Saturday 8:00 AM‑4:30 PM / Wednesday‑Saturday 8:00 AM‑4:30 PM
• Telework: Not Available; Virtual: This is not a virtual position
• Functional Statement #: 50832F – Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized; Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized; PCS Appraised Value Offer (AVO): Not Authorized