This position is located within Radiology Service Line, Ultrasound Section. The Medical Instrument Technician (Diagnostic Ultrasound) is the expert source of all ultrasound imaging and the interpreting Radiologist relies heavily on the knowledge, skills and abilities of the MIT (Diagnostic Ultrasound) in providing a final interpretation.

Duties

Diagnostic Ultrasound Technicians operate diagnostic ultrasonic scanning equipment to produce cross sectional and two-dimensional pictures of internal organs and body structures used to diagnose diseases and other medical conditions. Registration is offered by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). An Ultrasound Technician works directly with patients and Physicians and operates equipment that uses high- frequency soundwaves to take images and scans of the body's internal organs. An Ultrasound Technician is also known as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer or as a Sonographer. The Sonographer operates diagnostic ultrasound equipment both in the department and in the portable setting. The Sonographer independently performs a wide range of routine and complex exams, i.e. vascular (DVT, carotid, AAA); recognizing the need to make modifications during the examination. The Sonographer also assists the radiologist in biopsy procedures, which requires additional knowledge and skill sets. These exams will be performed at a minimum 100% of the workweek. Coordinates a variety of technical procedures that require independent judgment, ingenuity, and initiative in the application of non-ionizing high frequency ultrasonic waves to humans for diagnosis of disease. Knows and understands the principles of ultrasound and the highly specialized equipment well enough to essentially approve the acceptability or reject ability of each scan. Collaborates on surgical and research procedures under the supervision of a licensed independent practitioner. Evaluates the nature of critical and emergency procedures, and rearranges patients scheduled to accommodate them. Explains examinations to be performed to the patients so that an understanding of the purpose of the study as well as any requirements of the patients is thoroughly understood. This is done so that an adequate ultrasound study may be obtained to get diagnostic examinations for the purpose of treatment and diagnosis of disorders. Advises radiologists or referring clinician of significant abnormalities that would require their immediate attention and visualization while the patient is undergoing specific examination. The Diagnostic Ultrasound Technician at this grade level must be able to work independently and make appropriate decisions with little interaction from the supervisor. The incumbent works at a teaching medical center affiliated with the Emory School of Medicine. This position operates within the Therapeutic and Diagnostic Imaging Service and is directly supervised by the Ultrasound Supervisor and performs technical work in support of Diagnostic Radiology, under the direction of a physician. Within this specialization, there is a diverse range of sub-specialties to include: abdominal, vascular, extremity, and reproductive systems. The Incumbent will mainly work at the VA Medical Center in Decatur, however, will also cover scheduled shifts at the outpatient Center located in Cobb County. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:30AM - 4:00PM Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 53292F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required

Requirements

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 Language Proficiency: Medical Instrument Technicians must be proficient in spoken and written English. Licensure or Certification: Licensure or Certification is not required for this occupation; however, it is strongly desirable at GS-6 or above as evidence of possession of the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities. For certain functional areas at the higher levels or supervisory assignments, specific certifications appropriate to the specialty are indicated in this standard under "Titles and Certification/Registrations". For all specialties identified in this standard, Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support certifications are desirable. Training which does not result in official certification does not meet this definition. Grade Determinations:GS-9: Positions at this grade may be lead, supervisory, or non-supervisory with specialized advanced knowledge and assignments. Experience: At least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level, which is directly related to the duties of the position to be filled, and must fully meet the KSAs at that level. This would be specialized experience which demonstrates possession of the knowledge required in order to provide all aspects of diagnostic ultrasonography services. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs and the potential to acquire the assignment specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. KSAs 1, 2, and 3 are appropriate for all positions at this level. KSAs 4 and 5 are to be used in accordance with their appropriateness for the specific assignment. 1. Knowledge of the more complex examination and treatment procedures and techniques in order to provide training and supervision in these procedures, to evaluate and initiate performance improvement projects, and to write policies, procedures, and protocols that pertain to diagnostic ultrasonography. *2. Knowledge of JCAHO and other regulatory requirements. 3. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with employees at varying grade levels. *4. Ability to manage and supervise employees. *5. Ability to provide, or provide for, staff development and training. Certification. Registration by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) is highly desirable. Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications are also desirable. Assignments. For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), and range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. Special Assignments. Non-supervisory diagnostic ultrasound technicians may have assignments that because of their nature substantially exceed the full performance level. The Professional Standards Board will review proposed non-supervisory special assignments for the GS-9 level and make a determination regarding their appropriateness. These assignments are expected to be relatively few in number and must represent substantial additional responsibility over the full performance level. Preferred Experience: Registration by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) is highly desirable. Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications are also desirable. References: VA Handbook 5005/15, Part II, Appendix G27The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9. Physical Requirements: There is a combination of potentially extended periods of standing, walking, and lifting of items weighing up to 20 pounds such as portable grids, x-ray cassettes, computer paper boxes, etc. Incumbent must be able to travel to the distinct treatment areas with ease.

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: Donna Mackey-Pollard
• Phone: 334-590-9523
• Email: [email protected]