The Primary Purpose of the Position is: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist-Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR - a highly complex computerized imaging device which employs the use of strong magnetic fields and radio waves to acquire images), organizationally referred to as the Magnetic Resonance Imager operates diagnostic MRI scanning equipment to produce cross sectional and two/three dimensional pictures of internal organs and body structures used to diagnose diseases and other medical conditions. Basic Requirements: Citizenship. Be a citizen of the United States. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d). 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. 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. In modalities that require advanced certification, to support their continued development, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist. 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. Grade Determinations: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist GS-9 Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-8) that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. AND The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): i. *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. ii. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. iii. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. iv. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. v. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. vi. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients Preferred Experience: Customer Service Ability to work independently and as part of a team 3 or more years of MRI experience Knowledge of Health Care Systems. Knowledge of a PACS system References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix 25. Physical Requirements: heavy lifting (>45 lbs); heavy carrying >45 lbs); straight pulling (1 hour); pushing (1-2 hours); reaching above shoulder, use of fingers, both hands required; walking (up to 3 hours); repeated bending ( 1 hour); ability for rapid mental & muscular coordination simultaneously; near vision correctable to 13" to 16" to Jaeger 1 to 4; hearing (aid may be permitted) ["This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT and will remain open until January 12, 2023. The initial cut-off date for referral of eligible applications will be October 25 2022 with subsequent cut-off dates every two weeks until 01/12/2023. Eligible applications received after that date will be referred at regular intervals or as additional vacancies occur on an as-needed basis until positions are filled. Applicants who are referred will be considered for 90 days, after 90 days applicants will have to reapply. The MRI coordinates a variety of technical procedures that require independent judgement, ingenuity, and initiative in the application of non-ionizing high frequency ultrasonic waves to humans for diagnosis of disease in the clinic or on the wards. a) Performs MRI and MRS. Responsible for clinical, research and educational duties. Will be involved in all aspects of MRI/MRS including: (1) performance of clinical diagnostic MRI examinations, (2) performance of spectroscopic scope and imaging research, including active participation in the design and evaluation of new spectroscopic and imaging methods, (3) training of MRI/MRS principles and procedures to staff and visiting technologists from other Veteran Affairs Centers. b) Performs all aspects of MRI. Will function as an expert regarding the software and hardware capabilities in performance of the instrument, advise the radiologist on what pulse sequences are available, and what selection of acquisitions parameters are necessary to produce optimum images and generate efficiency in the data collection. Maintains a log book of protocols in data collection. Maintains a log book of protocols for frequently performed types of examinations, including positioning, acquisitions parameters, and orientation of slices. Recommends improvement in the protocol to the radiologist and confers with the radiologist to keep this book up to date. c) Interviews patients for the examination to determine if the patient has contraindication for MRI or MRS. Explains the examination procedure to the patients, determines which patient requires informed consent. Works with the radiologist to determine disposition of patients whose examinations are contraindicated, who are claustrophobic, or who require consents. Keeping the magnet area secure from unauthorized entries by visitors or hospital staff who may be carrying metal objects which pose a hazard to the patients. d) Positions the patient according to the examination required and the patient's body parts. e) If necessary, confers with radiologist and makes recommendations regarding modifications in protocol, and adding additional exams. f) Advises the radiologist of examinations' progress and provides them a preliminary diagnostic evaluation. g) Serves as liaison between the radiologist and maintenance engineer in facilitation software and hardware upgrades, services and repair. h) The incumbent correlates the scheduling of patients for examinations with the imaging Service Scheduling Clerks and with floor nurses and clerks. Evaluates the nature of critical and emergency procedures and rearranges schedules and prioritized to accommodate them. Maintains records of patient's studies and examinations performed. i) Maintains visual and vocal contact with the patient during the scan recognizes patient distress and intervenes or contacts a physician as needed. j) Transmits images to PACS, duplicate images to hard copies when requested, and operates dry laser imagers as required. Archives studies and keeps records of examinations imaged and archived. Performs region of interest and relaxation time analysis from data and calculates special images, such as phase or subtraction images when needed. k) Reviews new development in the field of MRI/MRS and recommends to the radiologist those developments which would augment operation of the center. l) The incumbent maintains MRI suites in a clean and sanitary condition. Maintains supplies, reorders supply when necessary and determines the need for new or different supplies. Maintains appropriate paperwork for any contractual obligations and sharing agreements. m) As required, technologist may be called back to duty under emergent or special need situations. During these periods, no immediate supervisor is available, and must be responsible for any contingencies that may arise in Radiology Service. n) Subject to irregular tours when patient care, scheduling and/or patient convenience necessitates coverage outside of normal hours of operation. Employees will be given a minimum notice of two weeks prior to tour of duty changes. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 0800 to 1630; This position comes with oon-call and holiday coverage. Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Recruitment Incentives: AUTHORIZED Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

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