Primarily performs Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Magnetic Resonance Angiography Imaging (MRA) of the head, neck, spine, chest, and body with the use of 1.5T and 3T scanners. Conducts complex MRI and MRA studies, including extremity run-offs, in-depth Cardiac studies, and Breast MRI, (refer to para. 2.n), providing images of the head, neck, spine, chest and body. 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) AND Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MR). 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) NOTE: Assignment to the clinical program director requires meeting JRCERT minimum educational standards as noted in the assignment description. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d). Grade Determination: In addition to the basic requirements, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates. GS-10 Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-9) directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level with experience to include but not limited to working 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 Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs). In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs. i. Knowledge of radiation protection standards, devices and techniques, including concepts of accumulated dosage, dose monitoring, and genetic changes. ii. 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. iii. Knowledge of basic physics including concepts of energy, electric power, magnetic fields, and properties of x-ray, to understand the operation of the equipment. iv. Knowledge and skill in positioning of patients for a wide variety of highly complex imaging (CT, MRI, IR, ultrasound, mammography) studies. References: VA Handbook 5005/119, Part II, Appendix G25, dated December 13, 2019, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standards, GS-0647. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office. ["Performs exams in a manner to optimize all of the radiographic equipment including the MRI scanner times while maintaining a flexibility to allow for emergency cases. This requires the prioritization of scheduled patients as well as the ability to accommodate the emergency patient who may need immediate emergency surgery, etc. Confers with radiologists to determine requirements of non-standard exams. Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of MRI scanning. Schedules patients for examinations when needed in the Air Force Composite Health Care System (CHCS) and VA's VistA system. Notifies the radiologist of scans requiring their immediate attention. Works with the radiologist as a member of the radiographic team. Must assist and anticipate the needs of the radiologists and the performance of the exam. Must be continuously on the alert for the patient's condition (the alertness of the individual is essential to prevent contamination, recognize patient reactions, anticipate technique factor difficulties, etc.) Instructs MRI practices, fundamentals, scanning abilities, IV usage and techniques to MRI trainees and new MRI personnel. Is competent to use power injectors for dynamic studies and insert IV needles for administration of contrast material. Assures that MRI patients are screened in advance for any contraindicating conditions per Radiology Service policy. The incumbent must be aware of and practice the safety policies and procedures of the medical center and participate in quality assurance activities as directed. Makes safety the highest priority and conducts safety screening according to established department and career field policies. Sends images to the Picture Archival Communications System (PACS) for image interpretation for both Air Force and VA systems. Monitors PACS to ensure exam completeness after sending. Maintains logbook of exams performed on patients per department policy. This includes patient requisitions and editing of patient exams in the Radiology Information System (RIS), making notes in PACS, copying of films, etc. Properly identifies patient by following NCHCS and Air Force Patient Identification Policy. The radiographer must be certain that the patient I.D. band and the request are identical. Asks each patient to actively confirm his or her name and social security number. Responsible to explain exams to competent patients so that patients understand what is to be done as well as what hazards, if any, that is possible. Counsels' patient on contrast injection process, verifies patient lab values are safe prior to injection. Be well versed in contrast reaction avoidance and response to contrast reactions. Responsible for stocking and inventory of all MRI related imaging supplies and materials. Responsible for cleaning and disinfecting the scanner room, equipment and all accessories in accordance with Infection Control Standards. Continually reviews new developments in MRI imaging. Is continually on the alert to improve quality of examinations utilizing the new technologies available. The purpose of this review is to provide the physicians and patients with the best possible images and scans for diagnostic purposes. Responsible for assuming various rotating schedules as determined by the Chief, Radiology Service. The rotation may include on-call coverage's, overtime, and alternate duty locations. Ensures crash cart checks at beginning of shift. Must be or able to become proficient and perform MRI and MR angiography, including extremity run-offs, in-depth Cardiac studies, and Breast MRI. These studies require the use of power injectors and reconstruction of images post image acquisition. Once trained and proficient the incumbent will train others. Work Schedule: Monday thru Friday 8:00AM to 4:30PM Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

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