Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computerized Tomography)
Duties of the Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computerized Tomography) include; but, are not limited to the following:
-Confers with requesting services to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. -Confers with radiologists to determine requirement of non -standard exams. Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scanning. Schedules patients for examinations. Advises radiologists or referring physicians of examination results. Notifies them of scans requiring their immediate attention. -Performs exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques. -Works with the radiologist as a member of the surgical/radiographic team. Must assist and anticipate the needs of the radiologists and the performance of the exam. Must be continuously on the alert for the patient's condition, sterile field, catheter and guide wire sizes and configurations, etc. -Prepares contrast materials that are used in CT and other exams. -Performs reconstructions of CT studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure. -Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. -Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that patients understand what is to be done as well as what hazards, if any, are possible. Obtains consent from the patient or authorized person for invasive procedures. -Performs irregular hour emergency scans on standby, 24 hours per day coverage. Requires the technologist be available within 45 minutes from receipt of call so that proper and effective emergency care can be given to the patient. Performs diagnostic radiographic examinations as required. -Continually reviews new developments in the field of computerized tomography and radiology. Is continually on the alert to improve quality of exams utilizing the new technologies available -Responsible for stocking and inventory of all CT supplies and related materials. Work Schedule:
Monday through Friday; 7:
30 a.m. to 4:
00 p.m. Financial Disclosure Report:
Not required To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 10/18/2020. 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. (copy of certification REQUIRED with application) 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).(transcripts REQUIRED with application) Grade Determinations:
In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates:
(1) GS-6 DRT (Developmental Level) Experience or Education. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level or the successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging. Assignment. Employees at this grade level serve as developmental DRTs, performing examinations which are routine and standardized in nature. They explain exams to patients in terms they can understand as well as potential hazards. They must also troubleshoot equipment used for diagnostic radiology and exercise extreme caution in the handling and safeguarding of all radiation producing equipment. DRTs must report major equipment malfunctions within a timely manner to service representatives and assist higher graded technologists in performing more complicated examinations. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1. Knowledge of basic technique standards for minimum radiographic exposure; 2. Knowledge of anatomy and positioning; 3. Knowledge of all patient safety procedures; 4. Knowledge of radiographic producing equipment; and 5. Ability to learn basic computer functions (2) GS-7 DRT (Advanced Developmental Level) Experience or Education. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level; or the successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging; or successful completion of an advanced registry program, with certification, in addition to a 4-year baccalaureate degree program in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging. Education may relate to the duties of a specific position or to the occupation but must be appropriate for the position being filled. Assignment. DRTs at this level perform a full range of duties but receive guidance and directions regarding unfamiliar or unusual situations for more complex patient issues. Candidates at this grade level may be qualified to provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1. Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system; 2. Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study; 3. Knowledge of radiation protection standards, minimum radiographic exposure techniques, appropriate beam limitation to anatomical area, and employing lead shielding when performing standard or fluoroscopic procedures; 4. Knowledge of the function of computed radiography, Phosphor cassettes and CR readers; and 5. Knowledge of PACS, and basic computer skills; (3) GS-8 DRT (Full Performance Level) Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Assignments. Employees at this grade level serve as staff DRTs at the full performance level. Candidates at this grade level must be qualified to independently provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services with only occasional oversight or direction for highly complex issues. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1. Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines; 2. Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed; 3. Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results; 4. Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed; 5. Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers; and 6. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. References:
VA Handbook 5005/77, Part II, Appendix G25, dated December 13, 2019. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-6 to GS-8. Physical Requirements:
Lifting (40 lbs. and under); Light Carrying (15 lbs. and under); Straight Pulling (up to 1 hour); Pushing (1 - 2 hours); Reaching above shoulder; Use of fingers; Both hands required; Walking (up to 3 hours); Standing (up to 3 hours); Repeated bending (up to 1 hour); Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; Near vision correctable at 13 to 16. The physical requirements for this position are in accordance with HRML No. 05-12-02, Employment of People with Disabilities, Including Under Schedule A, 5 CFR 213.3102(u).
Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
-Confers with requesting services to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. -Confers with radiologists to determine requirement of non -standard exams. Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scanning. Schedules patients for examinations. Advises radiologists or referring physicians of examination results. Notifies them of scans requiring their immediate attention. -Performs exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques. -Works with the radiologist as a member of the surgical/radiographic team. Must assist and anticipate the needs of the radiologists and the performance of the exam. Must be continuously on the alert for the patient's condition, sterile field, catheter and guide wire sizes and configurations, etc. -Prepares contrast materials that are used in CT and other exams. -Performs reconstructions of CT studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure. -Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. -Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that patients understand what is to be done as well as what hazards, if any, are possible. Obtains consent from the patient or authorized person for invasive procedures. -Performs irregular hour emergency scans on standby, 24 hours per day coverage. Requires the technologist be available within 45 minutes from receipt of call so that proper and effective emergency care can be given to the patient. Performs diagnostic radiographic examinations as required. -Continually reviews new developments in the field of computerized tomography and radiology. Is continually on the alert to improve quality of exams utilizing the new technologies available -Responsible for stocking and inventory of all CT supplies and related materials. Work Schedule:
Monday through Friday; 7:
30 a.m. to 4:
00 p.m. Financial Disclosure Report:
Not required To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 10/18/2020. 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. (copy of certification REQUIRED with application) 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).(transcripts REQUIRED with application) Grade Determinations:
In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates:
(1) GS-6 DRT (Developmental Level) Experience or Education. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level or the successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging. Assignment. Employees at this grade level serve as developmental DRTs, performing examinations which are routine and standardized in nature. They explain exams to patients in terms they can understand as well as potential hazards. They must also troubleshoot equipment used for diagnostic radiology and exercise extreme caution in the handling and safeguarding of all radiation producing equipment. DRTs must report major equipment malfunctions within a timely manner to service representatives and assist higher graded technologists in performing more complicated examinations. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1. Knowledge of basic technique standards for minimum radiographic exposure; 2. Knowledge of anatomy and positioning; 3. Knowledge of all patient safety procedures; 4. Knowledge of radiographic producing equipment; and 5. Ability to learn basic computer functions (2) GS-7 DRT (Advanced Developmental Level) Experience or Education. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level; or the successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging; or successful completion of an advanced registry program, with certification, in addition to a 4-year baccalaureate degree program in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging. Education may relate to the duties of a specific position or to the occupation but must be appropriate for the position being filled. Assignment. DRTs at this level perform a full range of duties but receive guidance and directions regarding unfamiliar or unusual situations for more complex patient issues. Candidates at this grade level may be qualified to provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1. Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system; 2. Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study; 3. Knowledge of radiation protection standards, minimum radiographic exposure techniques, appropriate beam limitation to anatomical area, and employing lead shielding when performing standard or fluoroscopic procedures; 4. Knowledge of the function of computed radiography, Phosphor cassettes and CR readers; and 5. Knowledge of PACS, and basic computer skills; (3) GS-8 DRT (Full Performance Level) Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Assignments. Employees at this grade level serve as staff DRTs at the full performance level. Candidates at this grade level must be qualified to independently provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services with only occasional oversight or direction for highly complex issues. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1. Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines; 2. Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed; 3. Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results; 4. Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed; 5. Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers; and 6. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. References:
VA Handbook 5005/77, Part II, Appendix G25, dated December 13, 2019. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-6 to GS-8. Physical Requirements:
Lifting (40 lbs. and under); Light Carrying (15 lbs. and under); Straight Pulling (up to 1 hour); Pushing (1 - 2 hours); Reaching above shoulder; Use of fingers; Both hands required; Walking (up to 3 hours); Standing (up to 3 hours); Repeated bending (up to 1 hour); Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; Near vision correctable at 13 to 16. The physical requirements for this position are in accordance with HRML No. 05-12-02, Employment of People with Disabilities, Including Under Schedule A, 5 CFR 213.3102(u).
- Department:
0647 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Salary Range:
$44,757 to $63,342 per year
Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
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