The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR), position is assigned to the Atlanta VA Health Care System, Diagnostic Imaging service, within the Magnetic Resonance Imaging section.

Duties

Major duties include, but are not limited to: Accurately operates MRI imaging equipment to obtain examinations of acceptable quality utilizing the standardized amount of Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) to obtain quality imaging for diagnosis and localization purposes. Supports the diagnostic radiology section by providing coverage in this area, as needed. Works independently on most exams, but confers with Radiologists or the MRI Supervisor on more difficult problems. Performs a wide variety of MRI exams, which include but are not limited to the spine, head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and extremities, utilizing specialist sequences to visualize the anatomy and pathology necessary for diagnosis. Works under the supervision of the MRI Supervisor or designee and the Chief Tech or designee and rotates all responsibilities within the MRI section. Advanced level imaging such as MR Breast, MR Cardiac, and MR Functional Neuro studies utilizing specialized sequences to visualize the anatomy and pathology necessary for diagnosis may either be already conducted or may be conducted in the future. Performs MRI imaging of the peripheral and visceral vessels through MR Angiography of the abdominal systems and extremities. Receives and interprets all radiology requests for accuracy and appropriateness and maintains a thorough knowledge of the ordering process. Other duties as assigned by management. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 2:00pm-10:30pm Compressed/Flexible: Not available Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #:508-51064-A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

Requirements

Qualifications

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). Certification: All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (R). Advanced Certification: Advanced ARRT certification is required for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Advanced certification indicates that the technologist has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination. 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). 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. Specialized Assignment: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR). This specialty modality requires additional knowledge of superconducting 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. The practitioner must have 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 specialized knowledge in the radio-frequency surface coils required for each specific anatomical area to be imaged. [This assignment may also perform basic magnetic resonance safety program duties. Technologists must be knowledgeable in contrast media, power injectors, and PACS. DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT (MR) certification.] Grade Determinations: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI), GS-9 Experience. In addition to the basic requirements for employment as listed above, applicants must have at least one year of experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GS-08) directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that 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 (*): *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. Preferred Experience: Basic Life Support Certification References: VA Handbook 5005/77, Part II, Appendix G25, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard, GS-647 dated December 13, 2019. Physical Requirements: The physical demands of the work include: heavy lift, 45 pounds and over, moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds; pushing up to 4 hours; reaching above the shoulder; use of fingers, good dexterity (both hands required); prolonged walking, prolonged standing, repeated bending; far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20; ability to distinguish basic colors; hearing aid permitted; speed i

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: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.

Contacts

• Address Atlanta VA Medical Center 1670 Clairmont Road Decatur, GA 30033 US
• Name: Ryan Fowler
• Phone: 314-652-4100 X63106
• Email: [email protected]