This Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (ADRT) Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) position is assigned to Radiology Service within the Ralph H. Johnson VA HealthCare System. The ADRT (MRI) at this level performs routine to complex MRI examinations, and general radiology exam/procedures (as needed).
Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Be a citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3g.). English Language Proficiency: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologists (DRTs) must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). 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. 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. 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). Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates: Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-10 Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade (GS-09) level directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Employees are trained to work in one or more difficult and complex modalities performing procedures related to these modalities as well as performing general diagnostic procedures. At this grade level, any assignment in a single modality must demonstrate significant complexity. Such assignments are unique, perhaps with expert specialization in complex areas of radiologic technology, Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) regulations, and intermediate QM type duties within the program. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs: Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes. Ability to utilize advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recognize changes in equipment and procedures that might result in increased exposures, and ability to recommend methods to prevent such exposures. Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of x-ray, to understand the operation of the equipment. Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies. Assignments. For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), and range of variety, and be performed by the 11 incumbent at least 25% of the time. Preferred Experience: None. 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-08. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-10. Physical Requirements: The work requires regular and recurring physical exertion. It may require long periods of standing, walking and sitting. It may involve frequent bending, twisting, lifting; positioning patients; and carrying, pushing, or pulling moderately heavy objects. See https://dvagov.sharepoint.com/sites/OCHCO/SitePages/D5019.aspx VA Directive and Handbook 5019, Employee Occupational Health Service for requirements.
Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional Duties include, but not limited to: Operates 1.5T and 3 Tesla Magnet Systems. Performs a variety of routine and complex MRI exams including but not limited to routine, vascular (peripheral, neurovascular), neuro (brain/spine), musculoskeletal, elastography and/or cardiac. Demonstrates knowledge of cross-sectional human anatomy and physiology as well as medical terminology. The incumbent must have specialized knowledge of the radiofrequency surface coils required for each specific anatomical area to be imaged. Responsible to monitor the radiofrequency power delivered to tissue during an MRI examination is referred to as the SAR. Responsible for setting up and positioning patients, providing immobilization devices, selecting proper technical factors on an individual patient basis, and operating the equipment. Performs post processing reconstructions when requested or when part of a standard procedure. Examinations are performed with or without contrast material based on imaging requisition and pre-defined protocols. Follows contrast policy in preparation and administration of contrast materials. Maintains competency with the loading, programming, and use of contrast power injectors. Performs venipuncture with proper intravenous catheter selection for contrast administration. Identifies and initiates treatment for extravasation of intravenous contrast. Recognizes signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction to intravenous contrast and ability to initiate appropriate response. Understands and adheres to VHA Directives and facility/service policies related to MR safety and follows all regulations within the MR environment. Maintains yearly competencies including MRT Level I and MRI Level II training. Screens all individuals (patients, staff, vendors) and equipment entering Zone Ill and Zone IV to ensure compliance with MRI safety protocols. Reviews MRI safety screening templates, MRI safety screening questionnaires and resolves any questions or concerns with patient, ordering provider and/or radiologist prior to scan. Researches implants and possible contraindications prior to patient entering scan room. Performs routine, urgent, emergent or research studies and post-processing of images. Assures images are properly identified with patient demographics and verifies accurate and timely archiving/completion of imaging on PACS. Work Schedule: Part-time, 7:00am - 5:00pm, Saturdays and Sundays. Work Schedule is subject to change based on agency need. Recruitment Incentive (Sign-on Bonus): Not Authorized. Permanent Change of Station (Relocation Assistance): Not Authorized. EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact vhaedrpprogramsupport@va.gov, the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases. When setting pay, a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of higher or unique qualifications or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade). Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year) Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior [work experience] or military service experience. Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child. Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66. Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement) Telework: Not Available. Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 534-56233F Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized.