Medical Instrument Technician - Diagnostic Ultrasound

The technologist has the overall responsibility for the coordination and performance of breast sonography and will assist with all ultrasound‑guided procedures in the imaging department at the Washington DC VA Medical Center. The breast ultrasound technologist will work closely with mammography technologists, radiologists, clinicians, and clerical staff to assure optimum quality control, efficient coordination of activities, high‑quality diagnostic exam results, and patient satisfaction. 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 Citizenship: Citizenship of the United States. Non‑citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3g of this part. Education: No specific educational requirements for this occupation; education may be substituted for experience only at the GS‑4 and GS‑5 levels. Licensure or Certification: Not required, but highly desirable at GS‑6 or above as evidence of essential knowledge, skills, and abilities. Specific certifications appropriate to the specialty are indicated for higher levels. Physical Requirements: Must be able to stand, walk, bend, lift and carry moderately heavy items, work in awkward positions, reach above shoulder, use both hands and fingers, lift, carry and move heavy equipment or patients routinely. English Language Proficiency: Must be proficient in spoken and written English. Grade Requirements In addition to the basic requirements for employment, the criteria discussed in the applicable headings, or that defined in the appendices, must be met when determining the grade of candidates. Education/Training: Creditable education must be obtained in an accredited community college, college, or university. Training: Completion of appropriate training such as in‑service training programs, on‑the‑job training, training acquired while in the armed forces, government‑sponsored developmental training programs, and/or training under physicians certified in the functional area will be allowed on a month‑for‑month basis through the GS‑5 level. Foreign Education: Education completed outside the U.S. must be evaluated by a private organization that specializes in foreign credential interpretation and deemed at least equivalent to conventional U.S. programs. Key Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) Knowledge of complex examination and treatment procedures to provide training and supervision, evaluate performance improvement projects, and write policies, procedures, and protocols for diagnostic ultrasonography. Knowledge of JCAHO and other regulatory requirements. Communication skills to interact professionally with employees at varying grade levels. Ability to manage and supervise employees and provide staff development and training. Certifications Registration by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) is highly desirable for GS‑9. Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications are also desirable. Preferred Experience Trains new breast sonographers in all aspects of breast ultrasound scanning protocols. Recommends, coordinates, and evaluates new or modified procedures/protocols in accordance with radiologist oversight. Works well with other sonographers on specialized tasks and new/modified procedures and policies. Maintains competency on all scanners and procedures. Ensures that ultrasound rooms are always stocked with necessary supplies. Works closely with the Supervisor of Breast Imaging to optimize ultrasound machine times. Best Qualified Applicants Current breast sonography registry Current breast experience including diagnostic and core biopsies Experience with ACR accreditation Reference For more information on this qualification standard, please visit The full performance level of this vacancy is GS‑09. #J-18808-Ljbffr