The Michael E DeBakey VA Medical Center (MEDVAMC) is seeking a Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI). This position will be located in Houston, TX.

Duties

This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT and will remain open until September 30, 2023 or until this position is filled. The initial cut-off date for referral of eligible applications will be August 11, 2023 and every two weeks or as needed until it closes. The duties of the Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI) in the Diagnostic & Therapeutic Care Line include but are not limited to: The incumbent serves as an operator of a super conductive magnetic resource unit. The operator will be developing new techniques, defining optimal protocols, and devising alternative ways to visualize pathology within the patient. Interaction with physician, physicists, computer programmers, and biomed engineers will be normal occurrences of the daily duties of the operator. The incumbent provides patient care, which is appropriate to the cognitive, emotional, and chronological maturation needs of the adult and/or geriatric patient. Positions patient within the examiner unit (MRI), monitors patient during all phases of the examination, and removes patient from the influence of the magnetic field upon completion of the data acquisition. Coordinates with radiologist, MRSO and or physicist to determine the most ideal parameters to pulse the magnet for each individualized patient examination. Programs technical factors by Interrogating computer console and responding with inputs that will result in the parameters of pulse form, pulse sequence, slice profile, etc. Monitors the examination by checking Computations, performances, and results of the selected parameters to obtain the best diagnostic computer- generated data and images. Assists manufacturer representatives and biomedical engineers in the calibration and troubleshooting of Malfunctions associated with the MRI unit. Establishes and monitors quality control programs. Maintains examination log, computer data and technical parameters on each examination. Technologist will perform all examination utilizing optimal technical proficiency, such as the utilization of imaging equipment, positioning, complete scanning anatomy, and following protocol. MEDVAMC is a teaching institute which requires the technologist to assist/train radiologist, and other technologist/technicians, students from affiliated institutions, and other health care professionals in PACS. Maintains supplies required for all MRI examinations. Maintains records on all patients and examinations performed and contrast used by sending all completed exams to Vista and Carestream PACs for permanent storage. Maintains supplies required for all MRI examinations. Maintains records on all patients and examinations performed and contrast used by sending all completed exams to Vista and Carestream PACs for permanent storage. Reviews new developments in the field and recommends to MRI Supervisor those that would improve the operation of the MRI department. Must keep his/her technical knowledge up to date by attending Continuing Medical Education training, to include CPR. Should also keep his/her knowledge related to Safety and Infections Control updated. Must be familiar with agency policies and regulations and follow them accordingly. The incumbent is responsible to become knowledgeable of the mis-association policy (memo 114-033) as well as the MCP 00Q-007 that outlines how to properly identify patients. Develops and maintains patient prep procedures so that patients and wards understand the proper preparations for MRI examinations to minimize delays of exams. These procedures are disseminated either in writing or by telephone conversation. Explains purpose of the exam to be performed and any requirements of the exam to the patients and ward staff. This is done so that an adequate MRI exam may be obtained for the purpose of treatment and diagnosis of disorders. Performs or monitors safety checks on patients, employees, and visitors to comply with FDA safety standards and Joint Commission regulations regarding ferrous objects and cardiac pacemakers prior to those persons entering the environment of the 1.5 Tesla, 1.0 Tesla and 3.0 Tesla magnetic field. Work Schedule: Multiple tours Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 580-00226-F 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: Candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English to be appointed as authorized by 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f). 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. 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). Grade Determinations: GS-10: 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 described at that level. Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist. Employees are trained to work in one or more difficult and complex modalities performing procedures related to these modalities as well as performing general diagnostic procedures. At this grade level, any assignment in a single modality must demonstrate significant complexity. Such assignments are unique, perhaps with expert specialization in complex areas of radiologic technology, Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) regulations, and intermediate QM type duties within the program. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs: Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes. Ability to utilize advanced imaging software that supports complex imaging programs and recognize changes in equipment and procedures that might result in increased exposures, and ability to recommend methods to prevent such exposures. Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of x-ray, to understand the operation of the equipment. Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies.] Preferred Experience: None References: VA Handbook 5005/119, Part II, Appendix G25 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-10. Physical Requirements: The work includes heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds; pushing 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 possibly long periods of time.

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 Michael E DeBakey VA Medical Center 2002 Holcombe Boulevard Houston, TX 77030 US
• Name: Latrice Dean
• Phone: 501-257-1752
• Email: [email protected]