Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Quality Management)

This position is assigned to the Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Service at the Central Virginia VA Health Care System in Fredericksburg, VA. Employees at this level are fully functional as a DRT and are able to carry out their assigned tasks independently without any supervision. Citizenship . Be a citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3g.)

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).]

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.]

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 needed to provide services as a quality control technologist, DRT team leader, supervisory radiologic technologist, [PACS technologist, clinical program director], or an assistant chief radiologic technologist.

This position has full oversight responsibility of departmental Quality Management program and may also include oversight of a departmental Quality Improvement (QI) program. That may include directing the work of lower-grade staff. Technologist performs daily inspection[s] of radiographic units to ensure proper mechanical functionality and ensures daily functionality of CR readers. The technologist provides in-service training for technologists and other personnel involved in the operation and maintenance of CR readers, DR panels, and other PACS types of operations maintained within the department. The technologist coordinates scheduling of preventative maintenance for modalities either through biomedical engineering or local contractor service. The technologist works with physicists to ensure compliance with radiation safety program and for acceptance testing of all new installations of equipment. The technologist maintains accurate records, as required by management, for quality assurance analysis, quality control, performance improvement, and other related purposes.

The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs:

Knowledge of all Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and VA standards regarding radiology quality assurance and other technical functions.

Ability to train staff on quality assurance and control.

Knowledge of inventory management systems.

Knowledge of x-ray and other image-producing machinery in order to design and operate a complete radiology quality assurance program.

Knowledge of physics and [physical properties of CR and DR panels and image production to diagnose difficulties in x-ray machinery and post processing equipment.

Quality of Experience . Experience is only creditable if it was earned after completion of the basic certification requirements. Experience as a graduate DRT is creditable provided the candidate functioned as a DRT and subsequently passed the certification examination.

Credentialing Standards . Public Law 97-35, the Consumer-Patient Radiation Health and Safety Act of 1981, requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75, Standards for the Accreditation of Educational Programs and the Credentialing of Radiographic Personnel. Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation and is accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and be certified as radiographers in their field.

English Language Proficiency . DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d).

Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work include heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds; standing 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 colors; hearing (aid permitted); speed in working; and emotional stability. Must have the ability to stand and work while wearing a lead apron for long periods.

The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11. 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. For further information, visit: .