Performs routine to moderately complex radiographic examination procedures. These exams are achieved by using diagnostic x-ray equipment such as fluoroscopic units, the chest unit and general diagnostic units. The duties described are for entry level radiologic technologist. The primary duty location is at the Palo Alto Division; to include outpatient clinics in Monterey, San Jose, Livermore, and Fremont. 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). Grandfathering Provision. All persons employed in VHA as a DRT on the effective date of this qualification standard are considered to have met all qualification requirements for the title, series and grade held, including positive education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the DRT occupation. NOTE: Each uncertified VHA DRT who was permanently employed on June 21, 1986, and whose competence in the safe administration of ionizing radiation was affirmed, in writing, by a VA licensed physician not later than January 1, 1987, is considered fully qualified. These employees may be promoted, changed to lower grade, or reassigned within the GS-0647 occupational series. Any employee initially retained in this manner who leaves this job series loses protected status and must meet the full requirements in effect at the time of reentry. 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). Grade Determinations:GS-5 Diagnostic Radiologic Technician. Experience or Education. None beyond the basic requirements GS-6 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Experience or Education. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade 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. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: (a) Knowledge of basic technique standards for minimum radiographic exposure. (b) Knowledge of anatomy and positioning. (c) Knowledge of all patient safety procedures. (d) Knowledge of radiographic producing equipment. (e) Ability to learn basic computer functions. GS-7 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Experience or Education. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level 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. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: (a) Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system. (b) Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study. (c) 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. (d) Knowledge of computed radiography, CR readers and Digital Imaging systems. (e) Knowledge of PACS and basic computer skills. Grade Determinations:GS-8 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: (a) Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines. (b) Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed. (c) Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results. (d) Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed. (e) Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers. (f) 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 5005/119, Part II Appendix G25 Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard GS-0647, Dated December 13, 2019.The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-8. Physical Requirements: Physical Requirements: VA Directive and Handbook 5019 - a physical examination will be conducted based on the physical requirements of the position. A physical examination prior to placement is required. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-08. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range GS 5 through GS-08. Physical Requirements: The incumbent requires one to be able to stand or walk for long periods of time. There is some bending and carrying of moderately heavy articles such as equipment or records. The technologist must be able to help lift and move patients to difficult positions on the radiographic table. The incumbent will be using multiple computer systems, using both mouse and keyboard Input, stressing the hand wrist. ["Major Duties of the position include but are not limited to: Assist radiologists with less complex fluoroscopic examinations. Prepares contrast materials under the direction of the radiologist for the purpose of performing exams requiring injectable solutions such as IVP, cystogram, cholangiograms fistulagrams and arthrography and for the purpose of performing oral and rectal exams of the GI tract. In case of injected contrast media, a patient consent form must be obtained. These procedures require the use of needles, syringes, renografin, barium, enema bags and drinking cups. Incumbent is responsible to the radiologists 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 dosage and reducing costs. Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patients, staff, and self. This is achieved by the use of lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, lead-lined walls and collimation. The technicians to assure compliance to radiation regulations by wearing film badges. The incumbent must also be aware of and practice the safety policies/procedures of the medical center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed. Incumbent will perform darkroom procedures such as loading and unloading CR cassettes, and operating the CR reader image processor in order to provide adequate and proper processed images. 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. Properly identifies the patient and the image. Uses left and right markers. This is essential so that mistaken identity does not occur. The technician must be certain that the patient ID band and the request are identical. Responsible for explaining exams to patients so that he/she understands what must be done as well as any potential hazards. May be required by procedure or patient's condition to monitor vital signs, recognize allergic reactions and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Responsible for cleanliness and stocking adequate levels of supplies in assigned areas. Must report equipment malfunction in a timely manner to the supervisor. Performs radiographic exams at the bedside and in the operating rooms on patients that are unable to be x-rayed in the Radiology Service due to incapacity or surgical procedures. Operate a variety of portable x-ray Units and a mobile intensifier unit that is located in Surgery to achieve these exams. Upon request, operates the digital fluoro unit in the endoscopy suite. Incumbent must be professional, cooperative and be able to work with other employees. The incumbent must be available to perform duties during normal work hours, after hours and on weekend and holidays Incumbents work under the general supervision of the Chief Technologist or designee in his/her absence. Performs fluoroscopic examinations under the guidance and direction of the radiologist. Work is evaluated on a spot check basis by the immediate supervisor. Work Schedule: Various tours of duty which may include day, evening, nights, weekends, holidays and on-call. Compressed/Flexible: Not Authorized Telework: Not Authorized Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized PCS Appraised Value Offer (AVO): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

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