Summary This Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), position is assigned to the Diagnostic & Therapeutic Care Line (DTCL) MEDVAMC, Radiology Service, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Section. Responsibilities 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. At this grade level, any assignment in a single modality must demonstrate significant complexity. Such assignments are unique, perhaps with expert specialization in complex areas of radiologic technology, Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) regulations, and intermediate QM type duties within the program. Technologist at this level requires advance education in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, ISTAT applications, insertion of intravenous catheter in patient's peripheral vein for IV contrast, injection training and knowledge of general imaging radiography. Employees at this level is considered fully functional and able to carry out their assigned tasks independently. Performs technical work in support of Diagnostic Radiology under the direct supervision of a physician. Position is that of a radiologic technologist operating the super conductive Magnetic Resonance Imager (MRI), a highly complex computerized imaging device which employs the use of strong magnetic fields and radio waves to acquire images. This specialty modality requires additional knowledge of super conduction 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 into. The practitioner must have specific specialized knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy and how it relates to the soft tissues and vessels of the human body. The technologist must also have a specialized knowledge in the radiofrequency surface coils required for each specific anatomical area to be imaged. The technologist requires knowledge of image acquisition in Computerized/Digital Radiography (CR/DR) and Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS). This subspecialty requires advanced ARRT certification in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR). Duties include but are not limited to: The incumbent serves as an operator of a super conductive magnetic resource unit. The operator will be developing new techniques, defining optimal protocols, and devising alternatice ways to visualize pathology within the patient. Interaction with physician, physicists, computer programmers, and biomed engineers will be normal occurrences of the daily duties of the operator. The incumbent provides patient care, which is appropriate to the cognitive, emotional, and chronological maturation needs of the adult and/or geriatric patient. Positions patient within the examiner unit (MRI), monitors patient during all phases of the examination, and removes patient from the influence of the magnetic field upon completion of the data acquisition. Coordinates the radiologist, MRSO and physicist to determine the most ideal parameters to the pulse the magnet for each individualized patient examination. Programs technical factors by Interrogating computer console and responding with inputs that will result in the parameters of pulse form, pulse sequence, slice profile, ect. Monitors the examination by checking Computations, performances, and results of the selected parameters to obtain the best diagnostic computer-generated data and images. Assists manufacturer representatives and biomedical engineers in the calibration and troubleshooting of malfunctions associated with the MRI unit. Establishes and monitors quality control programs. Maintains examination log, computer data and technical parameters on each examination. MEDVAMC is a teaching institute which requires the technologist to assist/train radiologist, and other technologist/technicians, students from affiliated institutions, and other health care professionals in PACS. Maintains supplies required for all MRI examinations. Maintains records on all patients and examination performed and contrast used by sending all completed exams to VISTA and Carestream PACs for permanent storage. PERFORMS ADVANCED LEVEL ASPECTS OF MRI IMAGING, such as MR Breast, MR Cardiac, and MR Functional Neuro studies utilizing specialized sequences to visualize the anatomy and pathology necessary for diagnosis. Work Schedule: Varies - Possible options include: Monday - Friday (5:00a-1:30p), Monday - Friday (1:00p-9:30p), Wednesday-Friday (11:00p-9:30p/Saturday 6:00a-4:30p), Thursday-Friday (11:00a-9:30p/Saturday-Sunday 6:00a-4:30p) Telework: Not Authorized Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 580-01226-F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Requirements Conditions of Employment 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. Must pass pre-employment physical evaluation. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details. Qualifications 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: 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). Education: Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the 2 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).] Licensure/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]. Advanced certification indicates that the incumbent [can operate independently] and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination. [In modalities that require advanced certification, to support their continued development, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist.] 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: 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. Preferred Experience: At least one year of MRI experience Knowledge of MRI safety policies and ACR guidelines Knowledge of Picture Archiving Computerized System (PACS) Certified as an MRI Technologist Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, candidates must demonstrate all of the following KSA's. 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. Grandfathering Provision: All persons employed in VHA as a DRT on the effective date of this qualification standard are considered to have met all qualification requirements for the title, series and grade held, including positive education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the DRT occupation. Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS10. Physical Requirements: Work is primarily sedentary but also demands standing for long periods of time, walking, bending, twisting, and carrying light items. Education IMPORTANT: 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: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/. Additional Information During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions. This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies. 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. Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process. If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement. Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.