This position is a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist serving in the Diagnostic Imaging Service of the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN. Salary Ranges by grade are as follows: GS-5 -- $51,431 - $66,867 GS-6 -- $54,606 - $70,984 GS-7 -- $57,886 - $75,251 GS-8 -- $62,153 - $80,804 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. Certification. All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R). 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). 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. Temporary appointments of non-certified DRTs may not be extended beyond two years or converted to a new temporary appointment. Loss of Credential. An employee in this occupation who fails to obtain certification within two years, or who fails to maintain the required certification must be removed from the occupation, which may also result in termination of employment. 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). Criteria is described in Additional Information below. Grade Determinations: GS-5 Experience or Education. None beyond the basic requirements. Assignment. DRTs at this level operate and monitor commonly used equipment performing routine procedures under general supervision. The technician functions somewhat independently in carrying out these standardized procedures of limited complexity. Deviations from regular procedures, unanticipated problems, and unfamiliar situations are referred to the supervisor for a decision or help. Some assignments at this level also include developmental duties involving more complex procedures designed to prepare the technician for promotion to higher grades in a functional area. Such duties are performed under closer supervision. GS-6 Experience or Education. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-5) 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. Assignment. Employees at this grade level serve as developmental DRTs, performing examinations which are routine and standardized in nature. They explain exams to patients in terms they can understand as well as potential hazards. They must also troubleshoot equipment used for diagnostic radiology and exercise extreme caution in the handling and safeguarding of all radiation producing equipment. DRTs must report major equipment malfunctions within a timely manner to service representatives and assist higher graded technologists in performing more complicated examinations. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: Knowledge of basic technique standards for minimum radiographic exposure. Knowledge of anatomy and positioning. Knowledge of all patient safety procedures. Knowledge of radiographic producing equipment. Ability to learn basic computer functions. GS-7 Experience or Education. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-6) 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. Education may relate to the duties of a specific position or to the occupation but must be appropriate for the position being filled. Assignment. DRTs at this level perform a full range of duties but receive guidance and directions regarding unfamiliar or unusual situations for more complex patient issues. Candidates at this grade level may be qualified to provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system. Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study. Knowledge of radiation protection standards, minimum radiographic exposure techniques, appropriate beam limitation to anatomical area, and employing lead shielding when performing standard radiographic and fluoroscopic procedures. Knowledge of computed radiography, CR readers and Digital Imaging systems. Knowledge of PACS and basic computer skills. GS-8 (Full Performance Level) Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-7) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Assignments. Candidates at this grade level must be qualified to independently provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services with only occasional oversight or direction for highly complex issues. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines. Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed. Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results. Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed. Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II Appendix G-25, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard 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: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. ["The incumbent performs routine to moderately complex radiographic examination procedures. These exams are achieved by using diagnostic x-ray equipment such as fluoroscopic units and general diagnostic units. Direct radiography (DR) and digital imaging are used to capture and process images. The images are then stored digitally in the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). The purpose of all these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment. Duties or functions of the position include but are not limited to: Interacts with Veterans, family members, caregivers, providers, and other staff either in person or by phone in the daily duties of the Radiology Department. Assists Radiologist during fluoroscopic examinations. Prepares oral contrast materials under the direction of the Radiologist for oral exams of the GI tract. These procedures may require the use of barium suspension, Gastrografin, sodium bicarbonate crystals, and drinking cups. Responsible to the Radiologist and Supervisor for the quality and quantity of radiographic exams performed in order to assure a high level of acceptability of radiographs while minimizing patient radiation dose and reducing costs. Advises Radiologist, participating providers or referring physicians of examinations requiring their immediate attention. Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patient, staff and self. This is achieved by the use of lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls and collimation. The technologist assures compliance with radiation regulations for all staff including the wearing of film badges. The technologist must also be aware of and practice the safety policies/procedures of the facility and participate in quality assurance activities as directed. Performs imaging using direct radiography (DR). All examinations are processed digitally. This work includes computer manipulation (window/level), correct orientation of the images (hanging protocol), patient acquisition through work list and releasing images to storage system (PACS), and burning of images to CD. Knowledge of procedures and hanging protocols results in accurate and properly processed radiographs. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. Edits and when necessary registers patients in the computerized Radiology Information System (RIS) as well as the work list management portion of the HIS-RIS interface (VISTA). Presents completed examinations for interpretation, entering all pertinent information on records as well as documenting fluoroscopy doses on an electronic log sheet. Confirms patient identity by verbally confirming two approved patient identifiers (such as patient name and full date of birth). Properly identifies patient images. This is essential so that images are matched to the correct patient and sent to the correct electronic record, and to insure the correct exam is performed on the correct patient. Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that the patient understands what is to be done and what, if any, potential adverse effects may be possible. Responsible for cleanliness and stocking adequate levels of supplies in all assigned areas. Must report equipment malfunction in a timely manner to the Supervisor. Practices infection control according to the Radiology Department policy and facility MCM. Utilizes PPE as necessary. Flexible and knowledgeable in basic procedures in patient reception and file room, providing basic coverage for these areas when necessary. Schedules general X-ray exams to include general, fluoroscopic, and bone densitometry exams. Calls patients to schedule exams. Answers phones to scheduled exams or answer questions. Technologist must be professional, cooperative and be able to work with other employees. Maintains current Basic Life Support (BLS) and American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) credentialing as require Maintains current Talent Management System (TMS) training as required. Work Schedule: Rotating Shifts with nights, weekends, holidays and on-call required. Specific shifts will be discussed during the interview process. Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Recruitment Incentives: May be authorized for highly qualified candidates Relocation Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

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