Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

Summary The incumbent serves in an advanced developmental capacity at the full performance level. Executing a substantially full range of duties in general radiology. Work is primarily performed in the general radiology Section of the Imaging Department at the Syracuse VA Medical Center. Qualifications Citizenship: Be a citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with VA Handbook 5005 - Part II - chapter 3 - section A - paragraph 3g.) Certification: All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the ARRT (R). Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include CT - MRI - or Mammography duties performed independently as applicable. Education: Completion of a full‑time training course of at least 24 months in a post‑high school diagnostic radiologic technology program – evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree – accredited by JRCERT or other recognized agency. Credentialing Standards: Public Law 97‑35 and 42 CFR Part 75 require that people who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards. They must have completed an educational program that meets or exceeds those standards and be certified as radiographers in their field. English Language Proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English. Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the required clinical competencies. Employees serve as staff DRTs at the full performance level and must be qualified to independently provide services in specialized and general radiologic technology with occasional oversight. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Ability to check system operation, assess performance, calibrate parameters, monitor patient’s physiological changes, use tacts, diplomacy, and courtesy. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, cross‑sectional anatomy, and image positioning. Preferred Experience: 1 year general x‑ray experience. Reference: For more information on this qualification standard – Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. Duties Operate imaging equipment to obtain radiography examinations of acceptable quality – utilizing the least amount of radiation. Perform general and specialized diagnostic radiologic procedures, receiving guidance for unfamiliar or unexpected situations. Receive patients and explain exams in terms understandable to competent patients. Explain potential hazards and obtain consent for examinations. Receive and interpret all radiology requests for accuracy and appropriateness; maintain knowledge of the ordering process in CPRS. Perform and complete imaging studies within established guidelines. Operate and maximize utilization of all equipment. Coordinate examinations requiring radiologist direction around physician availability to maximize exam room effectiveness. Optimize scan times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. Work with staff to ensure timely accomplishment of assigned workload, making day‑to‑day adjustments in accordance with established priorities and additional assignments. Apply Infection Control practices and procedures for patients and staff as mandated by Medical Center and Radiology service Infection Control policies. Maintain adequate supplies and pharmaceuticals used in the department. Perform minor equipment adjustments, repairs, and care in the handling and safeguarding of all equipment. Comply with all safety/fire prevention rules and regulations, using protective equipment when required. Maintain electronic records and files of exams performed on patients. Recognize technical adequacy of digital image and adjust image quality in digital system. Perform other assigned duties. Compensation and Benefits Work Schedule: Full‑Time – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM, Monday–Friday (Rotating Weekends & Holidays). Pay: Competitive salary & regular salary increases; a higher step rate may be determined for higher or unique qualifications. Paid Time Off: 37–50 days of annual paid time per year (13–26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year). Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual based on prior work or military service experience. Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment – up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave for birth, adoption, or foster care placement. Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment – full‑time employees with total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of eligible costs (monthly maximum $416.66). Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401(k) with up to 5% VA contributions. Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long‑term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement). Telework: Not available; Virtual: This is a non‑virtual position. Functional Statement #: 21R56A Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized. #J-18808-Ljbffr