Duties

The Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT), X-Ray Technologist, employee at this level is fully functional as a DRT, in both General Diagnostic X-Ray, and Mammography sections, and carries out the assigned tasks independently. The incumbent has expert specialization in Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) regulations. Mammography: 90% Diagnostic Radiology: 10%

Performs difficult and highly specialized radiographic examinations of the breast (mammography) utilizing a variety of specialized techniques that require precise positioning and produces quality results. Sets up exam room, assuring adequate and appropriate sterile supplies, special needles and other equipment are present in sufficient quantities and are in working order. Properly identifies patient by using full name and full social number and/or birthdate. Properly identifies patient exam by using HIS/RIS patient identification lists prior to perform an exam. Explains procedure, positions patient, selects and sets the correct technical factors, sets up and adjusts accessory equipment. Secures the confidence and cooperation of the patients during examinations and procedures. Recognizes exceptional diagnostic challenges. Tailors exams to meet challenges, then consults radiologist for additional input. Notifies the radiologist of significant findings that require immediate attention and further visualization. Keeps abreast of current technical literature, MQSA, ACR and FDA guidelines to perform mammography. Learns of new developments in mammography and radiology by reading journals and attending meetings, when possible. Ensures all personal certifications are kept current. Ensures compliance with MQSA, ACR and FDA guidelines for mammography accreditation.

Work Schedule: Various tours to include weekends
Compressed/Flexible:No
Telework: Not available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

• You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job
• All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
• Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
• You may be required to serve a probationary period
• Subject to a background/security investigation
• Must be proficient in written and spoken English
• Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process
• Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP)
• Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Personnel

Qualifications

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.] Position requires ARRT (R) and ARRT (M) certifications.
• 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).]
• 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 for 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.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to the experience listed above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:

i. Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes.
ii. 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.
iii. Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of x-ray, to understand the operation of the equipment.
iv. Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies.]

References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G25 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office.

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS10.

Physical Requirements: See VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G-25.

Education

IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.

Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/ . If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html .

Additional information

This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.

This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.

VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.

If you are unable to apply online or need to fax a document you do not have in electronic form, view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application .