Vacancy expired!
SummaryThe incumbent serves at Mather VA Health Care System (MVAHCS). In this position the incumbent will perform CT Imaging of the head, neck, spine, chest and body. These exams are performed with and without use of contrast materials. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies so that proper diagnosis and treatment may be effectuated. This grade requires that a minimum of 25% (10 hours) of workweek will be spent working in both the CT and Angio Cath Labs.ResponsibilitiesMajor Duties include but are not limited to the following: Schedules exams in a manner so as to optimize all of the radiographic equipment including the CT scanner times wile maintaining a flexibility to allow for emergency cases. Confers with radiologists to determine requirement of non-standard exams; Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scanning; Performs CT angiography; including run-offs and pulmonary embolus studies. Performs CT biopsies utilizing surgical sterile techniques. Receives and interprets request, or instructions for procedures; Adheres to hospital infection control and safety policies/techniques with emphasis on sterile technique; the storage of sterile supplies; the disposal of body fluids and 'sharps'; proper attire; hand washing practices; and continuing education; Works with the radiologist as a member of the radiographic team. Must assist and anticipate the needs of the radiologists and the performance of the exam; Prepares contrast materials that are used in CT. Improper use or administration of the contrast materials run the risk of patient mortality and, therefore, it is essential that a thorough understanding of the contrast material usage is possessed by those who prepare it; Performs reconstructions of CT studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure; Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. Properly identifies patient images; Schedules exams in a manner so as to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases; Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scanning; Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scanning; Performs CT biopsies utilizing surgical sterile techniques; Prepares contrast materials that are used in CT; Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients; Properly identifies patient images; Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that patients understand what is to be done as well as any adverse reactions, if any, are possible; Responsible for stocking and inventory of all CT supplies and related materials; and Responsible for stocking and inventory of all CT supplies and related materials. Work Schedule: As needed by the Clinic, variable shifts.RequirementsConditions of EmploymentQualificationsApplicants 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: 1. Citizenship. Be a citizen of the United States. Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy. 2. Certification. Must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT)(R). NOTE: Experience is only creditable if it was earned after completion of the basic ARRT certification requirements. Experience as a graduate DRT is creditable provided the candidate functioned as a DRT and subsequently passed the certification examination. 3. Education. Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate's degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from other accrediting agencies recognized by the Department of Education. Must be able to pass a pre-employment physical. 5. English Language Proficiency. Must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with VA policy. GRADE DETERMINATIONS: 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. 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. DRTs at this grade level may be appointed to one of the following assignments: 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 References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G25. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8. The grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-10. Physical Requirements: Moderate lifting & carrying (15-44 lbs); Straight pulling and pushing (Up to 7 hours); Reaching above shoulder; Use of fingers; Both hands required; Walking and standing (Up to 7 hours); Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; Near vision correctable at 13" to 16" to Jaeger 1 to 4; Far vision 20/50 and 20/100; Emotional/mental stability.EducationIMPORTANT: 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 InformationReceiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. VA may offer newly-appointed Federal employee's credit for their job-related non-federal experience or active duty uniformed military service. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed. This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies. It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment. 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. Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members. If you are unable to apply online view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.
