Summary
The Nuclear Medicine Technologist is responsible for providing a variety of routine and specialized nuclear medicine procedures, including diagnostic imaging and therapy with radioactive materials, radio-assay (in-vivo and in-vitro procedures), and PET imaging. The technologist evaluates abnormal results, uses and maintains equipment, sets up and monitors quality controls, and performs other related tasks. They also serve as the Associate Assistant Radiation Safety Officer (ARSO).
Qualifications
Applicants pending 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: Certification in nuclear medicine technology by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (N).
- NMTCB or ARRT (N) certification eligibility requirements are normally satisfied by one of the following: Completion of a NMTCB-recognized nuclear medicine technology program or completion of a nuclear medicine technology program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT) or other recognized accrediting agencies, culminating in a certificate, associate, baccalaureate, or master's degree.
- Educational programs must include structured clinical training sufficient to provide clinical competency in radiation safety, instrumentation, clinical procedures, and radio-pharmacy, as deemed acceptable by the NMTCB.
- Certification Exceptions: Non-certified applicants who meet the eligibility requirements may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate NMT under 38 U.S.C. § 7405 (a)(1)(D). Failure to obtain certification within 1 year from the date of appointment is justification for termination of the temporary appointment and may result in termination of employment.
- This position may qualify under the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard (applicable to current VHA employees in this occupation who meet the criteria).
- Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements, one year of creditable experience at the GS-9 level or equivalent is required, demonstrating ability to document excessive radiation exposure, knowledge of medical events requiring documentation, ability to communicate radiation safety precautions, troubleshoot gamma camera equipment, analyze computer data, and make recommendations to the RSO. Experience must be documented in your resume.
- Reference: For more information, visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/
- VA Handbook 5005 - Part II - Appendix G19 - "Nuclear Medicine Technologist Qualification Standard"
- The actual grade at which the applicant may be selected is GS-11.
- Physical Requirements include light to heavy lifting over 45 pounds, carrying up to 44 pounds, pushing, reaching, use of hands and fingers, walking, standing, kneeling, rapid mental and muscular coordination, near vision, color discrimination, and hearing (aid permitted).
Duties
- Administer diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals under physician direction.
- Ensure the safe use of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation for diagnostic, therapeutic, and research purposes.
- Review patients' medical histories, instruct patients before, during, and after procedures, evaluate patient preparation, and recognize emergency conditions to initiate first aid.
- Acquire, process, and transfer imaging studies for review by the Nuclear Medicine physician.
- As ARSO, responsibilities include tracking radiation safety training, managing dosimetry, ensuring regulatory compliance, monitoring exposures, assisting with oversight of the radiation safety program, and addressing safety issues.
- Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Telework: Not available.
- Virtual: Not virtual.
- Functional Statement #: 0000000
- Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized.
- PCS: Not authorized.
- Financial Disclosure Report: Not required.