Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist
Summary
As a Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist's (DRT) you will function as the lead DRT for a large group DRT ranging from GS5-GS9 levels. Provide a full range of general radiologic procedures, has a broad knowledge of the different modalities within the diagnostic radiologic area, and is accountable to the next higher-level supervisor. Lead DRT will perform daily inspection of radiographic units to ensure functionality.
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Duties
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Duties include:
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:30am to 4pm
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 40956F
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:
Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
Qualifications
Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may b referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Basic Requirements:
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: Experience: 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.
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 11 incumbent at least 25% of the time. DRTs at this grade level may be appointed to one of the following assignments:
Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist: [The incumbent] functions as a lead DRT for a group of DRTs [at the GS-9 level and below]. [The incumbent] provides a full range of general radiologic imaging exams, has a broad knowledge of the different modalities within the diagnostic radiologic area, and is accountable to the next higher-level supervisor. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*):
References: VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 10. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS 10.
Physical Requirements.
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-….
Additional information
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.I
f you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.
Whole Health Statement: The VA Sunshine Healthcare Network (VISN 8) advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers. This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model that is based in a partnership across time, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran. This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community. This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
As a Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist's (DRT) you will function as the lead DRT for a large group DRT ranging from GS5-GS9 levels. Provide a full range of general radiologic procedures, has a broad knowledge of the different modalities within the diagnostic radiologic area, and is accountable to the next higher-level supervisor. Lead DRT will perform daily inspection of radiographic units to ensure functionality.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
Duties include:
- Responsible to work closely with other technologists using encouragement, training, and other motivational means to obtain the highest quality images. Help other technologists, when necessary, i.e., difficult, or uncooperative patient, heavy workload, etc. Maintain and encourage an environment of teamwork and a positive workplace. Coordinate's lunch and breaks. Coordinates and monitors workflow and reports performance issues to the Chief Technologist.
- Coordinate the flow of patient through the general radiologic department by efficient assignment of work and maximum utilization of staff and equipment. Expedites the examinations of patients by communicating and working with Radiology staff, nursing, and radiologists.
- Review all diagnostic radiographic studies for accuracy, completeness, and technical quality. Perform image quality assurance for proper labeling, technique, positioning, and network information. Oversee image transmission and acquisition process to ensure that
all radiographic images are transmitted into the PACS. Troubleshoot problems with all general imaging equipment, performs daily reconciliations of image data and corrects any discrepancies allowing for prompt interpretation by the Radiologist. - Expedite examinations of acutely ill patients by communicating and working with Radiology staff, nursing, and staff physicians to ensure patient care is continued without delay and or interruption. Work with other services (OR, ER, ICU, Nursing Home) to meet the imaging
needs of other services in locations outside the Radiology department. - Coordinate the repair and installation of imaging equipment. Serve as the liaison between the Imaging Supervisor and Biomedical Engineering. Recommend equipment improvements, repairs, upgrades, etc. Participate in developing specifications for new equipment requests. Participate in developing service contract specifications.
- Advise employees within their section of performance requirements. Keep them informed in meeting of these requirements. Resolves conflicts within his/her jurisdiction as appropriate; refers problems to supervisor only when necessary.
- Work with the Radiologist as a member of the radiographic team. Perform diagnostic and fluoroscopic procedures which include radiographic examinations at the bedside. Prepare contrast materials used in general imaging. Must assist and anticipate the needs of the Radiologists and the performance of exams performed.
- Provide clinical instruction to students from affiliated programs. Technical expertise is effectively shared with the students to ensure their clinical and didactic education. Facilitate the attainment of established program objectives by aiding in diagnostic
procedures and equipment. - Follow established Quality Assurance guidelines and protocols to ensure integrity, availability, authenticity, and confidentiality of imaging data transmitted by the various modalities. Comprehensive knowledge of quality control and quality assurance policies, procedures, and principles. Assist and provide evaluation and reports findings to the Chief Technologists.
- Apply principles of ALARA to minimize exposure to patients, staff, and others. This is achieved using lead aprons, lead gloves, proper exposure factor and equipment, lead shields, lead lined walls and collimation. Film badges are worn by the technologists to
assure compliance to radiation regulations. - Coordinate with and assists the Radiation Safety Officer and Physicist in compliance testing or radiologic equipment. Will be conscience of non-compliant issues in a proactive approach.
- Implement departmental and Medical Center policies. Ensures activities are carried out to meet the goals of the department in a timely manner. Interacts with representatives from outside agencies such as JCAAHO, VISN and VHA when necessary.
- Perform imaging exams using direct radiography (DR). All examinations are processed digitally. This work includes computer manipulation (window/level), correct orientation of the images (hanging protocol), patient acquisition through work list and releasing images to storage system (PACS) and burning of images to CD. Knowledge of procedures and protocols results in accurate and properly processed radiographs.
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:30am to 4pm
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 40956F
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
- All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
- Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Subject to background/security investigation.
- Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued dentification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment.
- Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
- Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.
As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:
- your performance and conduct;
- the needs and interests of the agency;
- whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
- whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.
Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
Qualifications
Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may b 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: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d).
- 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 2 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).
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: Experience: 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.
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 11 incumbent at least 25% of the time. DRTs at this grade level may be appointed to one of the following assignments:
Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist: [The incumbent] functions as a lead DRT for a group of DRTs [at the GS-9 level and below]. [The incumbent] provides a full range of general radiologic imaging exams, has a broad knowledge of the different modalities within the diagnostic radiologic area, and is accountable to the next higher-level supervisor. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*):
- Ability to provide feedback to supervisor on technical aspects of work.
- *Ability to resolve informal employee complaints.
- *Ability to monitor and report on the status and progress of work and make adjustments to accomplish the workload in accordance with established procedures.
- Ability to perform general and specialized diagnostic radiologic procedures in advanced levels of complex treatment situations.
References: VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 10. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS 10.
Physical Requirements.
- Frequent standing for extended periods of time.
- Repetitive bending, stooping, reaching (including overhead and extensive reach) to position patients and equipment.
- Must be capable of lifting, pushing, and pulling patients, equipment, or supplies - typically up to 50-100 pounds.
- Ability to maneuver and position patients of varying mobility levels, occasionally requiring the use of assistive devices ( e.g., Hoyer lift, stretchers).
- Extensive fine motor dexterity is needed for precise equipment adjustments, contrast media preparation, and digital interface operations.
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-….
Additional information
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.I
f you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.
Whole Health Statement: The VA Sunshine Healthcare Network (VISN 8) advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers. This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model that is based in a partnership across time, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran. This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community. This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being.
Expand Hide additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.