Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

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 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) 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.] 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: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (GS-5): Experience or Education: None beyond the basic requirements Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (GS-6):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 Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: Knowledge of basic technique standards for minimum radiographic exposure Knowledge of anatomy and positioning Knowledge of all patient safety procedures Knowledge of radiographic producing equipment Ability to learn basic computer functions Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (GS-7): 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 Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study Knowledge of radiation protection standards, minimum radiographic exposure techniques, appropriate beam limitation to anatomical area, and employing lead shielding when performing standard radiographic and fluoroscopic procedures Knowledge of computed radiography, CR readers and Digital Imaging systems Knowledge of PACS and basic computer skills Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (GS-8): Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest Preferred Experience: Two to three years of clinical radiography experience performing a wide range of general diagnostic examinations in hospital or outpatient settings, including proficiency with DR imaging systems and portable radiographic equipment Experience supporting advanced imaging environments such as fluoroscopy, and/or operating room radiographic procedures Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit The full performance level of this vacancy is 8 Physical Requirements: The position involves extended periods of standing and walking within the medical center, as well as regular lifting, transferring, and positioning of patients It requires frequent bending, reaching, and twisting to operate radiographic equipment and appropriately position patients The candidate must be capable of pushing and pulling portable imaging units, stretchers, and wheelchairs, while maintaining adequate manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination The role also demands staying alert and responsive in fast-paced and emergency care situations Additionally, there will be occasional exposure to infectious agents and radiation, necessitating the use of required personal protective equipment (PPE), including lead aprons and other protective gear for extended durations ]]>