This Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist-Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR), organizationally referred to as the Magnetic Resonance Imager operates diagnostic MRI scanning equipment to produce cross sectional and two/three dimensional pictures of internal organs and body structures used to diagnose diseases and other medical conditions. The employee operates the super conductive Magnetic Resonance Imager (MRI), which employs the use of strong magnetic fields and radio waves to acquire images BASIC REQUIREMENTS. Citizenship. Be a citizen of the United States. 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. 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), and7407(d). Grade Determinations: GS-9 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level GS-08 directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist. Employees at this level are fully functional as an advanced DRT and carry out their assigned tasks independently. DRTs 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. Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment, the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform at this level. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): i. *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. ii. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. iii. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. iv. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. v. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. vi. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. 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. For employees who do not meet all of the basic requirements in this standard, but who met the qualifications applicable to the position at the time they were appointed to it, the following provisions apply: (1) DRTs that require a certification, may be reassigned, promoted up to and including the full performance (journeyman) level, or changed to lower grade within the occupation, but may not be promoted beyond the journey level or placed in supervisory or managerial positions. (2) DRTs that require a certification only at higher grade levels must meet the certification requirement before they can be promoted to those higher grade levels. Employees who are retained as a DRT under this provision and subsequently leave the occupation lose protected status and must meet the full VA qualification standard requirements in effect at the time of reentry as a DRT. Preferred Experience: Customer Service Ability to work independently and as a team 3 years MRI experience Knowledge of healthcare systems Knowledge of a PACS system References: VA Handbook 5005/119 Part II Appendix G25 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard GS-0647 Veterans Health Administration December 13, 2019 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9. Physical Requirements: Heavy Lifting (45 lbs. and over); Heavy Carrying (45 lbs. and over); Straight Pulling (up to 1 hour); Pushing (1 - 2 hours); Reaching above shoulder; Use of fingers; Both hands required; Walking (up to 3 hours); Standing (up to 3 hours); Repeated bending (up to 1 hour); Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; Near vision correctable at 13" to 16"; Hearing (aid permitted) ["This is an open continuous announcement. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis and qualified candidates will be considered as vacancies become available. The cut-off date is 12/30/22, After the initial cut-off period, additional applications will be reviewed/referred as needed in date order. Note: Submitting multiple applications will change the order in which your application is reviewed. We will refer qualified applicants to the selecting official for consideration. The organization's hiring needs will determine the referral of additional applicants. Applicants will be notified about their application's status if referred. The Magnetic Resonance Image coordinates a variety of technical procedures that require independent judgement, ingenuity, and initiative in the application of non-ionizing high frequency ultrasonic waves to humans for diagnosis of disease in the clinic or on the wards. a) The incumbent is required to perform magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). The technologist will be responsible for clinical, research and educational duties. He/she will be involved in all aspects of MRI/MRS including: (1) performance of clinical diagnostic MRI examinations, (2) performance of spectroscopic scope and imaging research, including active participation in the design and evaluation of new spectroscopic and imaging methods, (3) training of MRI/MRS principles and procedures to staff and visiting technologists from other Veteran Affairs Centers. While working in each area of Radiology Service, the employee will participate in all aspects of the mission of the medical center, including clinical service, education and research, as needed. The employee will also assist the management team with the collection of statistical data needed to monitor and improve the clinical service. b) The incumbent is required to perform in all aspects of MRI. He/She will function as an expert regarding the software and hardware capabilities in performance of the instrument, advise the radiologist on what pulse sequences are available, and what selection of acquisitions parameters are necessary to produce optimum images and generate efficiency in the data collection. Maintains a log book of protocols in data collection. Maintains a log book of protocols for frequently performed types of examinations, including positioning, acquisitions parameters, and orientation of slices. Recommends improvement in the protocol to the radiologist and confers with the radiologist to keep this book up to date c) The incumbent will interview each patient for the examination to determine if the patient has contraindication for MRI or MRS, such as a cardiac pacemaker, ferrous implant, intracranial. Explains the examination procedure to the patients, determines which patient requires informed consent. Works with the radiologist to determine disposition of patients whose examinations are contraindicated, who are claustrophobic, or who require consents. Keeping the magnet area secure from unauthorized entries by visitors or hospital staff who may be carrying metal objects which pose a hazard to the patients d) Positions the patient according to the examination required and the patient's body parts. Chooses the most effective coil for optimization of signals, and positions coils correctly to prevent radio frequency coupling and burns. Applies cardiac electrodes, moving the leads as necessary to optimize ECG tracing Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 4:00pm, 8:00 am to 4:30pm, rotating on call and holiday schedule Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 00000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

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