Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Magnetic Resonance Safety Officer (MRSO)

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs seeks a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist to perform MRI and MRA of head, neck, spine, chest and body, with or without contrast, to support diagnostic studies for patient care.

The ideal candidate will meet ARRT requirements, hold a radiologic technology credential, and may pursue MR safety officer responsibilities. This role is based in a VA facility with opportunities for advanced MRI certification.

Qualifications

• ARRT certification required; MRI certification highly desirable.
• U.S. citizenship required.
• 1 year of related radiologic experience preferred.
• Advanced MR certifications encouraged for MRI duties.

Skills

MR safety knowledge

Access control in MR area

Safety procedures writing

Hazard knowledge for MRI implants

Staff training in MR safety

Education

Radiologic Technology degree or certificate

Job description

Performs Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) of the head, neck spine, chest and body. These exams are performed with and wit hout use of contrast materials. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies so that proper diagnosis and treatment may be effectuated.

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).] [NOTE: Assignment to the clinical program director requires meeting JRCERT minimum educational standards as noted in the assignment description.]

Credentialing Standards.

Public Law 97-35, the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75, Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs and the Credentialing of Radiographic Personnel. Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field.

Grandfathering Provision.

May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).

Physical Requirements.

See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.

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-10 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. [Magnetic Resonance Safety Officer (MRSO). Employees who are qualified to work in the MRI modality (advanced certification) have expert specialization at this grade level. The MRSO operates with full responsibility for training, developing, and directing the MR safety program. Duties may include coordination of MR safety committee meetings, evaluation of hospital equipment to ensure MR safe operation, and oversight of employee and patient MR screening programs. Coordinates training of hospital staff and ensures maintenance of educational documentation. MRSO certification is highly desirable for this level of complexity.

The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs:

• Knowledge of safety requirements for physical space pertaining to MR imaging area.
• Ability to establish and monitor access and safety requirements for the physical zones.
• Ability to develop and ensure that adequate written safety procedures, work instructions, emergency procedures, and operating instructions are issued and enforced.
• Knowledge of hazards posed by magnetic fields on implants, medical devices, hospital equipment and retained foreign bodies, and the development of measures taken against those hazards.
• Ability to train medical, technical, nursing and all other relevant staff groups (including ancillary workers) in all procedural aspects related to MR safety.

Preferred Experience:

• Magnetic Resonance Safety Officer (MRSO) certification
• 2 Years minimum Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) experience

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-10.