U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI)
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60290
Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI)
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provided pay range. This range is provided by U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range: $83,096.00/yr - $108,021.00/yr
Summary The Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) - Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR) - position is assigned to the Medical Imaging - Radiology Service - Magnetic Resonance Imaging section within the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center. The MRI Technologist at this level may have varying assignments including special and complex imaging procedures beyond the full performance level - clinical instruction - and basic QM type duties within the program and carries out the assigned tasks independently.
Qualifications
United States Citizenship:
Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
English Language Proficiency:
DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d) - and 7407(d).
Certification:
All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology - Radiography (ARRT) (R).
Advanced ARRT certification:
Required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT) - magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - or Mammography (M) duties performed independently - as applicable.
Advanced certification indicates:
The incumbent can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination.
On‑the‑job training:
Technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist.
Education:
Applicants must have 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). 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:
Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MR) - GS‑0647‑10 Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade GS‑09 level directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes.
Ability to utilize advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recognize changes in equipment and procedures that might result in increased exposures - and ability to recommend methods to prevent such exposures.
Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of X‑ray to understand the operation of the equipment.
Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies.
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.
Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist:
Employees are trained to work in one or more difficult and complex modalities performing procedures related to these modalities as well as performing general diagnostic procedures.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR) Specialty:
Requires additional knowledge of superconducting magnets, the physics of superconducting magnets, and how they relate to the human anatomy in medical imaging. The technologist must be educated in the safety factors governing a magnetic environment that patients, visitors, and equipment enter. Must possess specialized knowledge of cross‑sectional anatomy and how it relates to the soft tissues and vessels of the human body, and specialized knowledge in the radio‑frequency surface coils required for each specific anatomical area to be imaged.
Contrast media knowledge:
Technologists must be knowledgeable in contrast media, power injectors, and PACS.
Reference:
For more information on this qualification standard – please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
Actual grade at which an applicant may be selected:
GS‑10.
Physical Requirements:
Heavy lifting – 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying – 15–44 pounds; pushing up to 4 hours; reaching above shoulder; use of fingers – good dexterity (both hands required); prolonged walking; prolonged standing; repeated bending; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; far‑vision correctable in one eye to 20/20; ability to distinguish basic colours; hearing (aid permitted); speed in working; and emotional stability; Must have the ability to stand and work while wearing a lead apron for possibly long periods of time.
Duties
Read, understand, and follow all Jesse Brown VA Medical Center and Radiology policies and procedures and maintain compliance in all requirements essential to maintaining the position.
Assume various rotating schedules as determined by the Operations Manager – Radiology Service.
Perform all aspects of MRI imaging (head, neck, spine, abdomen, pelvis, musculoskeletal, special imaging procedures such as Arthrograms – MRA/MRV angiography exams utilizing specialized sequences to visualize the anatomy and pathology necessary for diagnosis).
Maintain Level 1 and Level 2 MRI safety training.
Screen patients, caregivers, medical providers and all others who enter the MRI suite for contraindications for entering Zone IV.
Ensure patients are screened in advance for any contraindicating conditions including renal function for patients requiring contrast agents per Radiology service policy.
Explain exams and risks to competent patients so the patient understands what is to be done as well as what hazards – if any – are possible.
Operate and maximize utilization of a wide variety of sophisticated imaging equipment including but not limited to Power Injectors, 3D Reconstruction Software, Siemens 1.5T Symphony and Siemens 3T Skyra MRI scanners.
Determine technical factors such as repetition time (TR), TE, bandwidth, field of view, slice thickness, etc. to produce high‑quality images and satisfy requirements of MR exams.
Maintain competence in venipuncture and refer to the Radiology Service procedure manual for guidelines on MRI Safety – Administration of Contrast Media – and all other relevant Radiology policies and procedures.
Prepare contrast materials under the direction of the Radiologist that are used in MRI – to include general, specialized, MR angiography and all other exams.
Schedule/reschedule appointments within the appropriate time frames as outlined in hospital directives or memoranda.
Receive and interpret all radiology requests for accuracy, appropriateness.
Review imaging orders and screening information for accuracy and research all questionable information prior to contacting the patient or performing the exam.
Stock and inventory all supplies – notify Supervisor when supplies are not available and monitor expiration dates to ensure all items are in compliance.
Properly identify patient images by using the HIS/RIS patient identification lists, R & L markers, correct amount and type of contrast administered, timelines for any timed examinations, patient position and all other identifying markers for that view/scan.
Properly identify areas of interest on all images when applicable.
Promptly report all accidents and notify supervisor of unsafe/unhealthful conditions in the workplace.
Attend scheduled training sessions and participate in facility or service‑level safety promotions as directed by supervisor.
Perform other assigned duties.
Work Schedule – Monday to Friday – 2:30 PM to 11:00 PM or 3:30 PM to Midnight shift with on‑call and alternate weekend rotation.
Telework: Not Available. Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 05768F. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized.
Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Health Care Provider – Government Administration
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Base pay range: $83,096.00/yr - $108,021.00/yr
Summary The Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) - Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR) - position is assigned to the Medical Imaging - Radiology Service - Magnetic Resonance Imaging section within the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center. The MRI Technologist at this level may have varying assignments including special and complex imaging procedures beyond the full performance level - clinical instruction - and basic QM type duties within the program and carries out the assigned tasks independently.
Qualifications
United States Citizenship:
Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
English Language Proficiency:
DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d) - and 7407(d).
Certification:
All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology - Radiography (ARRT) (R).
Advanced ARRT certification:
Required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT) - magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - or Mammography (M) duties performed independently - as applicable.
Advanced certification indicates:
The incumbent can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination.
On‑the‑job training:
Technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist.
Education:
Applicants must have 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). 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:
Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MR) - GS‑0647‑10 Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade GS‑09 level directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes.
Ability to utilize advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recognize changes in equipment and procedures that might result in increased exposures - and ability to recommend methods to prevent such exposures.
Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of X‑ray to understand the operation of the equipment.
Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies.
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.
Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist:
Employees are trained to work in one or more difficult and complex modalities performing procedures related to these modalities as well as performing general diagnostic procedures.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR) Specialty:
Requires additional knowledge of superconducting magnets, the physics of superconducting magnets, and how they relate to the human anatomy in medical imaging. The technologist must be educated in the safety factors governing a magnetic environment that patients, visitors, and equipment enter. Must possess specialized knowledge of cross‑sectional anatomy and how it relates to the soft tissues and vessels of the human body, and specialized knowledge in the radio‑frequency surface coils required for each specific anatomical area to be imaged.
Contrast media knowledge:
Technologists must be knowledgeable in contrast media, power injectors, and PACS.
Reference:
For more information on this qualification standard – please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
Actual grade at which an applicant may be selected:
GS‑10.
Physical Requirements:
Heavy lifting – 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying – 15–44 pounds; pushing up to 4 hours; reaching above shoulder; use of fingers – good dexterity (both hands required); prolonged walking; prolonged standing; repeated bending; ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; far‑vision correctable in one eye to 20/20; ability to distinguish basic colours; hearing (aid permitted); speed in working; and emotional stability; Must have the ability to stand and work while wearing a lead apron for possibly long periods of time.
Duties
Read, understand, and follow all Jesse Brown VA Medical Center and Radiology policies and procedures and maintain compliance in all requirements essential to maintaining the position.
Assume various rotating schedules as determined by the Operations Manager – Radiology Service.
Perform all aspects of MRI imaging (head, neck, spine, abdomen, pelvis, musculoskeletal, special imaging procedures such as Arthrograms – MRA/MRV angiography exams utilizing specialized sequences to visualize the anatomy and pathology necessary for diagnosis).
Maintain Level 1 and Level 2 MRI safety training.
Screen patients, caregivers, medical providers and all others who enter the MRI suite for contraindications for entering Zone IV.
Ensure patients are screened in advance for any contraindicating conditions including renal function for patients requiring contrast agents per Radiology service policy.
Explain exams and risks to competent patients so the patient understands what is to be done as well as what hazards – if any – are possible.
Operate and maximize utilization of a wide variety of sophisticated imaging equipment including but not limited to Power Injectors, 3D Reconstruction Software, Siemens 1.5T Symphony and Siemens 3T Skyra MRI scanners.
Determine technical factors such as repetition time (TR), TE, bandwidth, field of view, slice thickness, etc. to produce high‑quality images and satisfy requirements of MR exams.
Maintain competence in venipuncture and refer to the Radiology Service procedure manual for guidelines on MRI Safety – Administration of Contrast Media – and all other relevant Radiology policies and procedures.
Prepare contrast materials under the direction of the Radiologist that are used in MRI – to include general, specialized, MR angiography and all other exams.
Schedule/reschedule appointments within the appropriate time frames as outlined in hospital directives or memoranda.
Receive and interpret all radiology requests for accuracy, appropriateness.
Review imaging orders and screening information for accuracy and research all questionable information prior to contacting the patient or performing the exam.
Stock and inventory all supplies – notify Supervisor when supplies are not available and monitor expiration dates to ensure all items are in compliance.
Properly identify patient images by using the HIS/RIS patient identification lists, R & L markers, correct amount and type of contrast administered, timelines for any timed examinations, patient position and all other identifying markers for that view/scan.
Properly identify areas of interest on all images when applicable.
Promptly report all accidents and notify supervisor of unsafe/unhealthful conditions in the workplace.
Attend scheduled training sessions and participate in facility or service‑level safety promotions as directed by supervisor.
Perform other assigned duties.
Work Schedule – Monday to Friday – 2:30 PM to 11:00 PM or 3:30 PM to Midnight shift with on‑call and alternate weekend rotation.
Telework: Not Available. Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 05768F. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized.
Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Health Care Provider – Government Administration
#J-18808-Ljbffr