Job Opportunity: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist
The Fargo VA Health Care System is recruiting for a full-time Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist for the Diagnostic Imaging Service Line. As a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist in the imaging service line, the incumbent is responsible for performing a wide variety of routine to complex diagnostic radiology, and complex fluoroscopic x-ray and complex surgery fluoroscopic exams. These exams are performed with and without the use of contrast materials and may include the operation of automatic injector system. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment of veterans.
Functions:
- Performs 100% of general x-ray/Fluoroscopy and may include CT (If registered) or Bone densitometry.
- Schedules exams in a manner to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases.
- Performs complex fluoroscopy in surgery environment.
- Performs portable, general radiographic examinations within the facility.
- Verifies regions of interest (ROI) for reporting additional information when completing Imaging exams, DEXA scans; evaluates quality of measurements for problems due to artifacts, pathology, etc.; recommends additional scan as necessary; flags values that require physician's attention (low T-score; unreliable results, etc.); and archives results.
- The technologist evaluates quality of measurements and accuracy.
- 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.
- The Radiographer prepares and administers contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist/provider for performing exams requiring injectable solutions and for performing oral and rectal exams of the GI tract. Additionally, patient consent forms must be obtained when indicated.
- Imaging procedures may require the use of enema bags, needles, syringes, power injectors, and contrast materials. The radiographer must know the side effects and adverse reactions of contrast materials. Improper use or administration of the contrast materials run the risk of patient mortality; thus, it is essential that a thorough understanding of usage be possessed by those who prepare and administer.
- The RT must screen the patient prior to contrast administration, continuously monitor the patient's condition, and be aware of adverse reactions and side effects. Adverse reactions require immediate attention so that harm does not come to the patient.
Work Schedule: PM shift, 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., 10-12 hours shift, rotating 7 on 7 off
Requirements:
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
- All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
- Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- You may be required to serve a probationary period.
- Subject to background/security investigation.
- Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
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.
- 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.
- Exception for Non-Certified, Entry Level Candidates. Non-certified DRTs who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for ARRT (R) certification may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate DRT under the authority of 38 U.S.C. 7405(c)(2)(B). The appointing official may waive the requirement of certification for a period not to exceed two years for a DRT that provides care under the supervision of a certified DRT at or above the full performance level. This exception only applies at the GS-5 entry level technician. For grade levels above the entry level, the candidate must be certified.
- 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).
- English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d).
- 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).
- Creditable Experience: Knowledge of Current Radiologic Technology Practice. To be creditable, experience must have demonstrated possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics (also referred to as clinical competencies) associated with current radiologic technology practice. This may have been evidenced by the equivalent of one year of active practice, which is paid or non paid employment as a DRT as defined by ARRT.
- Quality of Experience. Experience is only creditable if it was earned after completion of the basic certification requirements.
- Part-Time Experience. Part-time experience as a DRT is creditable according to its relationship to the full-time workweek.
- Grade Determinations:
- GS-5 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Experience or Education. None beyond the basic requirements.
- GS-6 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist 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.
- GS-7 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist 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.
- GS-8 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.
Preferred Experience: CT certification & BLS certification.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-5 to GS-8.
Physical Requirements: You will be asked to participate in a pre-employment examination or evaluation as part of the pre-employment process for this position. Questions about physical demands or environmental factors may be addressed at the time of evaluation or examination.
Education IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application. 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: 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.
Additional Information: This is an OPEN CONTINOUS ANNOUNCEMENT. Qualified applications will be referred every two weeks from the opening date of this announcement until the closing date, or until the position is filled, whichever is sooner.