Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography)

Summary

This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) - a student loan payment reimbursement program. You must meet specific eligibility requirements per VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment.

Qualifications

• 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
  • English Language Proficiency: 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) and Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or Mammography (M) duties performed independently, as applicable
  • Education: Applicants must have 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 Determinations:

  • Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (CT) - GS-0647-10

• 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
  • Experience for this position includes but not limited to:
  • Specific knowledge of cross sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral - and/or - multi-slice computer tomography - inclusive of 3-D reconstruction scans - including drainages - biopsies - and peripheral vascular examinations
  • Specific knowledge and training in the location - appearance - and function of the various major and minor systems susceptible to radiological illumination
  • To interpret the examination request accurately
  • To understand the functioning and inter-relationship of the various organs
  • To use the methods and techniques which will identify organs appearing on the digital display monitor - or on film - and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the image and/or scan for diagnostic use and to emphasize the aspects of interest to the physician

  • Demonstrated Knowledge - Skills and Abilities:

    • 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 incumbent at least 25% of the time
    • Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist: 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
    • Computed Tomography (CT): This specialty modality requires specific knowledge of cross sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral - and/or - multi-slice computer tomography - inclusive of 3-D reconstruction scans - including drainages - biopsies - and peripheral vascular examinations
    • The technologist requires specific knowledge and training in the location - appearance - and function of the various major and minor systems susceptible to radiological illumination
    • To interpret the examination request accurately
    • To understand the functioning and inter-relationship of the various organs
    • To use the methods and techniques which will identify organs appearing on the digital display monitor - or on film - and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the image and/or scan for diagnostic use and to emphasize the aspects of interest to the physician
    • DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification

  • Preferred Experience:

    • 5 years of experience preferred

  Physical Requirements

  See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.

  Duties

  The Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) - Computed Tomography (CT) position is assigned to the Medical Imaging - Radiology Service, within the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center. The DRT (CT) performs computerized tomography of the head - neck spine - chest and body and any other exams as per department guidelines performed with and without the use of contrast materials.

  • Assists radiologist in the performance of CT guided biopsy/drainage exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques

  • Determines technical factors - positioning - number and thickness of scans - etc. - to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scanning

  • Advises radiologists or referring physicians of examination results

  • Notifies them of scans requiring their immediate attention

  • Prepares and administers contrast materials that are used in CT exams, such as oral - rectal and IV

  • Responsible for explaining exams to competent patients in terms the patient will comprehend as well as understanding potential hazards that may occur as a result of the exam

  • Performs CT exams using multiple techniques including - but not limited to - single phase post-contrast exams - multi-phase post-contrast exams - and low-dose exams

  • Performs reconstructions of CT studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure and maintains records and files of exams performed on patients

  • Ensures that images are successfully transmitted to PACS and are available for Radiologic interpretation (this should be done as soon as the study is completed)

  • Responsible for cleanliness (to assure that all equipment used in the CT area is clean and sanitary) and stocking adequate levels of supplies in assigned areas

  • Responsible for assuming various rotating schedules as determined by the Operations Manager - Radiology Service

  • Ensure productivity is maintained at the established level for the program for which he/she is responsible

  • Perform other duties as assigned

  Work Schedule

  3:30pm to 12:00am (Midnight) with weekends and on call rotations as needed

  Telework

  Not Available

  Virtual

  This is not a virtual position

  Functional Statement #

  00868F

  EDRP Authorized

  Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive

  Contact Information

  Contact Ryan.TenCate@va.gov - the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance

  Learn More

  Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized