The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) performs all aspects of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, including but not limited to Head, Neck, Chest, Abdomen, Pelvis, Extremities, MR Angiography, MR Venography, and MR Arthrography. The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) also operates Digital, Computerized Radiography, as well as Conventional and Mobile radiographic equipment and PACS. Performs all aspects of Diagnostic Radiology.
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 (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). GRADE REQUIREMENTS. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR). This specialty modality requires additional knowledge of superconducting magnets, the physics of superconducting magnets, and how they relate to the human anatomy in medical imaging. The technologist must be educated in the safety factors governing a magnetic environment that patients, visitors, and equipment enter. The practitioner must have specialized knowledge of cross sectional anatomy and how it relates to the soft tissues and vessels of the human body. The technologist must also have specialized knowledge in the radio-frequency surface coils required for each specific anatomical area to be imaged. [This assignment may also perform basic magnetic resonance safety program duties. Technologists must be knowledgeable in contrast media, power injectors, and PACS. DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT (MR) certification. Specialized Assignments. Specialized areas of radiologic technology include general diagnostic radiologic technology (R), bone densitometry (BD), mammography (M), diagnostic ultrasound (S), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MR), interventional radiologic technology (IR), quality management (QM), picture archival communication system (PACS) technologist, MRI safety officer (MRSO), imaging administrator, clinical program director, and clinical instructor. 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 11. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS 9 to GS 11. Physical Requirements: Pre-placement physical examination to determine the physical, cognitive and emotional fitness of candidates for appointment in VA is required, and shall be completed prior to appointment, for all full-time, part-time and intermittent positions.
The incumbent serves as operator of a super conductive magnetic resonance unit and must be able to perform a variety of routine and complex MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) exams including routine, vascular (peripheral, neurovascular), neuro (brain/spine), musculoskeletal imaging, and abdominal exams to include prostate and advanced diffusion techniques. Developing new techniques, defining optimal protocols, and devising alternative ways to visualize pathology within the patient. Programs technical factors by interrogating computer console and responding with inputs that will result in the parameters of pulse form, pulse sequence, slice profile, etc. Coordinates with radiologist and physicist to determine the most ideal parameters to pulse the magnet for each individualized patient examination. Monitors all of these examinations during all phases by checking computations, performances, and results of the selected parameters to obtain the best diagnostic computer generated data and images. Removes patient from the influence of the magnetic field upon completion of the data acquisition. Responsible for setting up and positioning patients, provides immobilization devices, selects proper technical factors on an individual patient basis and operates the equipment. The incumbent provides patient care which is appropriate to the cognitive, emotional and chronological maturation needs of the adult and/or geriatric patient. Performs or monitors safety checks on patients, employees and visitors to comply with FDA and JCAHO safety standards regarding ferrous objects and cardiac pacemakers prior to those persons entering the environment of the magnetic field. Assists in preparation of manuals, and assists in devising modified procedures as necessary. Interaction with physician, physicists, computer programs, and biomed engineers will be normal occurrence of the daily duties of the operator. Assists manufacturer representative and biomedical engineers in the calibration and troubleshooting of malfunctions associated with the MRI unit. Maintains equipment malfunction and downtime log. Checks all equipment and reports failures to the Manager. Reviews new developments in the field and recommends to imaging manager those that would improve the operation of the MRI department. Must keep his/her technical knowledge up to date by attending Continued Medical Education training. Must also keep his/her knowledge related to Safety and Infections Control Updates. Must be familiar with agency policies and regulations and follow accordingly. Ensures other staff maintains a high level of skill and meets at least the minimum level of continuing education required for certification and/or licensure pertaining to the MR section of the department. Responsible for the training of the MSA pertaining to the MRI Section of the Imaging Department. Provides direction to MRI and DR personnel and offers advice and guidance in handling unique problems. Ensures the monitoring of all activities within the MRI section and takes appropriate action as required in order to insure their efficient and effective operation. Regularly sets objectives for self and the department, monitors and evaluates objectives in order to use time effectively. Coordinates vacation coverage and break/lunch schedules for the section, assuring adequate staffing is available so that patient care is not compromised. Participates in the compilation and analysis of data on departmental activities and prepares related reports to the Manager. Works independently, setting up deadlines and priorities based on the knowledge of the goals of the department. The Chief and Manager of the Imaging department discusses objectives and may, at times, provide general instruction or directives. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm Compressed/Flexible: Not Available Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized