Summary The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography) is assigned to the VA NORCALHealth Care System in the Diagnostic Imaging Service at the Martinez, CA VA. The DRT-CT performs computerized tomography of the head, neck, spine, chest, and body. These exams are performed using contrast materials. The purpose of these exams is to conduct diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment. Responsibilities The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Computed Tomography) performs routine to moderately complex radiographic examination procedures. These exams are performed using diagnostic x-ray equipment, such as fluoroscopic units and general diagnostic units. Performs computerized tomography of the head, neck, spine, chest, and body. These exams are performed with and without the use of contrast materials. The purpose of these exams is to conduct diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment. For this grade level, a minimum of 25% (10hrs) is spent working as a CT technologist. The duties associated with this position include, but are not limited to, the following: Schedules exams in a manner to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. This requires the ability to prioritize scheduled patients as well as accommodate emergency patients who may need immediate surgery, among other tasks. Confers with radiologists to determine the requirement of non-standard exams. Determines technical factors, positioning, number, and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy the requirements of CT scanning. Schedules patients for examinations. Notifies them of scans requiring their immediate attention. Performs CT angiography, including run-offs and pulmonary embolus studies. These studies require the use of power injectors and image reconstruction post-image acquisition. Performs CT biopsies utilizing surgical sterile techniques. Prepares contrast materials that are used in CT. Performs quality control on the CT scanner as required. Records contrast warmer temperatures daily. Checks crash cart at the beginning of the shift. Performs reconstructions of CT studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure. Maintains records and files of exams performed on patients. This includes maintaining patient log registration and editing patient exams in the computerized information system. Properly identifies patient images. Responsible for explaining exams to competent patients so that patients understand what is to be done, as well as any adverse reactions, if any, that may occur. Responsible for stocking and inventory of all CT supplies and related materials. Must report equipment malfunctions promptly to the supervisor and enter an electronic work order to Biomedical Engineering for repair. Performs irregular-hour emergency scans on-call when necessary. Requires the technologist to be available within 45 minutes of receiving the call, so that proper and effective emergency care can be given to the patient. May be required to perform diagnostic radiographic examinations. Continually reviews new developments in the field of computerized tomography. It is continually on the alert to improve the quality of exams by utilizing the latest available technologies. The purpose of this review is to provide the patients with the best possible scans for diagnostic purposes. Other duties as assigned Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm Supervisor's discretion Telework: Not authorized Virtual: This is not a virtual position Functional Statement #: 00726 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact Susan.Bringel@va.gov, the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more 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 trial period. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued dentification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Must pass pre-employment physical examination. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). 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 Proficiency: Candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d) Certification Requirement: 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 has 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 Requirement: 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). Specialized Experience: Must have a certification in Computed Tomography (CT). 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).Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-9 Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level GS-8, directly related to the position being filled, that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Quality of Experience. Experience is only creditable if it was earned after completion of the fundamental certification requirements. Experience as a graduate DRT is creditable, provided the candidate functioned as a DRT and subsequently passed the certification examination. Part-Time Experience. Part-time experience as a DRT is creditable according to its relationship to the full-time workweek. For example, a DRT would receive one week of full-time credit for each two weeks of half-time work Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): In addition to the basic requirements, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (): Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. G. References: VA Handbook 5005/119, Part II, Appendix G25, dated December 13, 2019, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standards, GS-0647.The full performance level of this vacancy is at the GS-9 level. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-9. PhysicalRequirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019 Education This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program. You must meet specific eligibility requirements per VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment. Program Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) & eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after review of the EDRP application. Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply. 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 Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed. 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. 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.
