OPT- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist- SA Quality Management Technologist
- Oversees Quality within the Radiology Service, ensuring proper & timely reporting of quality measures, & external auditing bodies. development of quality assurance & process improvement initiatives, & assessment of program outcomes. Compliance & Regulatory programs & processes. Particular attention to ensuring compliance with st&ards set by VHA & external auditing bodies.
- Oversees educational programs ensuring that all staff are trained to perform the necessary functions to meet the above expectations. To include development of educational materials where necessary, particularly regarding modality specific safety, as well as ensuring that personnel within the service & throughout the institution are current with required training for access to specific Radiology modalities.
- Maintains certification as diagnostic radiologic technologist (DRT) with an advanced certification in Computed Tomography or Magnetic Resonance Imagery, Mammography, or Nuclear Medicine.
- Maintains advanced clinical skills & covers clinical work in Radiology as necessary during times of staffing shortages or emergencies
- Monitors procedure complications, event reporting, & trends.
- Maintains, updates, & disseminate policies for contrast administration, including iodinated & gadolinium-based agents.
- Oversees & reports radiation dose monitoring for CT, IR, Fluoro, intraoperative rooms & Cardiology Cath Lab.
- Monitors exposure factors &/or procedural protocols in accordance with ALARA principles.
- Develops & maintains the cumulative dose tracking program at the Salt Lake City VAMC.
- Collaborates with modality Supervisor to determine thresholds along with guidance relating to protocol changes that may increase dose to patients & staff.
- Serves as the MRSO (Magnetic Resonance Safety Officer) on the MRI Safety Committee.
- Assists in overseeing safety training & certification for all Radiology & Hospital staff with MRI suite access.
- Assists MRI Supervisor with conducting & documenting MRI Safety drills. Provides appropriate documentation to the Safety Committee when requested.
- Provides equipment safety surveillance & equipment certification liaison between Radiation Safety Officer (RSO), BioMed, & modality Supervisor.
- Provides periodic reports of monitors & statistical data for quality assurance, to include proposals for improved effectiveness & cost containment.
- Reviews requisitions for Radiologic services for completeness & ensure that the appropriate studies were performed.
- Tracks performance issues & identifies trends with the purpose of individual & group training to increase production of quality of images with new & improved service specific options.
- Maintains accurate records as required by management, & provides statistical information as required for analysis, planning, quality control & improvement.
- Oversees & advises ongoing quality assurance & process improvement activities in Radiology service.
- Provides input for equipment & software purchase & supply decisions when appropriate or requested. Regulatory & Compliance:
- Serves as Radiology liaison for institutional site visits & inspections from OIG, Joint Commission, NHPP, NRC, CR, & other accrediting & regulatory agencies.
- Maintains & updates policies & procedures to meet regulatory & accreditation requirements.
- Monitors safety training & compliance for providers with privileges to perform fluoroscopy, in coordination with the RSO.
- Supports & assists RSO to ensure compliance with institutional radiation safety program.
- Utilizes VistA & other tools for reporting of activity & usage data.
- Maintains accurate records for quality assurance analysis, quality control, & performance improvement.
- Serves as Chair of Radiology Education Committee & as Member of Hospital Education Committee.
- Oversees education folders for Radiology & ensures they are current & submitted within VHASLC guidelines.
- Coordinates & oversees training in-services & other educational efforts for new equipment & supplies.
- Interacts with vendors, staff, & providers on new equipment items, coordinate in-services & other technical training programs.
- Develops education materials as needed for specific training needs, including modality-specific technical quality improvement & safety training for MRI, CT, & Fluoro.
- Coordinates training for Radiology staff on facility Occupational Hazards & requirements.
- Maintains & updates policies relating to sterile RME & consumable products.
Requirements
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.
- You may be required to serve a probationary period.
- Subject to background/security investigation.
- Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
- Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.
Qualifications
- 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). 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.
- 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).
- English Language Proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d).
Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - GS-11
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 needed to provide services as a quality control technologist, DRT team leader, supervisory radiologic technologist, [PACS technologist, clinical program director], or an assistant chief radiologic technologist.
Quality Management Technologist. This position has full oversight responsibility of departmental Quality Management program and may also include oversight of a departmental Quality Improvement (QI) program. That may include directing the work of lower graded staff. The technologist performs daily inspection[s] of radiographic units to ensure proper mechanical functionality and ensures daily functionality of CR readers. The technologist provides in-service training for technologists and other personnel involved in the operation and maintenance of CR readers, DR panels, and other PACS type of operations maintained within the department. The technologist coordinates scheduling of preventative maintenance for modalities either through biomedical engineering or local contractor service. The technologist works with physicists to ensure compliance with radiation safety program and for acceptance testing of all new 15 installations of equipment. The technologist maintains accurate records, as required by management, for quality assurance analysis, quality control, performance improvement, and other related purposes.
The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs:
- i. Knowledge of all Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and VA standards regarding radiology quality assurance and other technical functions.
- ii. Ability to train staff on quality assurance and control.
- iii. Knowledge of inventory management systems.
- iv. Knowledge of x-ray and other image-producing machinery in order to design and operate a complete radiology quality assurance program.
- v. Knowledge of physics and [physical properties of CR and DR panels and image production to diagnose difficulties in x-ray machinery and post processing equipment.
Physical Requirements: This employee functions in direct patient care. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (X-Ray, CT or MRI) work requires long periods of standing and/or walking up to 8 hours. There is repeated bending, pushing/pulling, reaching above shoulders, use of both hands (hands and fingers), twisting and carrying of moderately heavy articles weighing from 15-44 pounds such as digital imaging plates, grids, as well as wearing lead aprons. Movement and manipulation of moderately heavy equipment, which is generally power assisted, such as portable machines, hospital beds, gurneys, wheelchairs, and patent lift equipment. Positioning of patients who are disabled may require considerable effort and working in awkward positions. Heavy lifting of incapacitated patients to be done with assistance from other employees and various Safe Patient Handling & Mobility devices (i.e. EZ-MAT, overhead lifts, slider boards, etc.) provided by the Radiology Section. Near vision correctable at 13 inches to 16 inches to Jaeger 1 - 4 and far vision correctable in one eye to 20/50 and to 20/100 in the other is acceptable. Hearing aids are permitted in X-Ray & CT. The ability to read written orders, computer screens, patient records, and equipment controls; and the ability to communicate with patients, physicians, and coworkers. Near visual acuity to assess patient's physical condition when performing exams and evaluating images for diagnostic quality. Must be able to speak and hear to communicate with patients; ability to make critical decisions, interact with patients of different ages and health conditions, maintain patient confidentiality, work under stressful conditions.
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: . 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: .
Additional information
During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
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.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If 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 at .
- Benefits
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. .
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.
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.
- You may be required to serve a probationary period.
- Subject to background/security investigation.
- Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
- Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.
Qualifications
- 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). 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.
- 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).
- English Language Proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d).
Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - GS-11
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 needed to provide services as a quality control technologist, DRT team leader, supervisory radiologic technologist, [PACS technologist, clinical program director], or an assistant chief radiologic technologist.
Quality Management Technologist. This position has full oversight responsibility of departmental Quality Management program and may also include oversight of a departmental Quality Improvement (QI) program. That may include directing the work of lower graded staff. The technologist performs daily inspection[s] of radiographic units to ensure proper mechanical functionality and ensures daily functionality of CR readers. The technologist provides in-service training for technologists and other personnel involved in the operation and maintenance of CR readers, DR panels, and other PACS type of operations maintained within the department. The technologist coordinates scheduling of preventative maintenance for modalities either through biomedical engineering or local contractor service. The technologist works with physicists to ensure compliance with radiation safety program and for acceptance testing of all new 15 installations of equipment. The technologist maintains accurate records, as required by management, for quality assurance analysis, quality control, performance improvement, and other related purposes.
The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs:
- i. Knowledge of all Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and VA standards regarding radiology quality assurance and other technical functions.
- ii. Ability to train staff on quality assurance and control.
- iii. Knowledge of inventory management systems.
- iv. Knowledge of x-ray and other image-producing machinery in order to design and operate a complete radiology quality assurance program.
- v. Knowledge of physics and [physical properties of CR and DR panels and image production to diagnose difficulties in x-ray machinery and post processing equipment.
Physical Requirements: This employee functions in direct patient care. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (X-Ray, CT or MRI) work requires long periods of standing and/or walking up to 8 hours. There is repeated bending, pushing/pulling, reaching above shoulders, use of both hands (hands and fingers), twisting and carrying of moderately heavy articles weighing from 15-44 pounds such as digital imaging plates, grids, as well as wearing lead aprons. Movement and manipulation of moderately heavy equipment, which is generally power assisted, such as portable machines, hospital beds, gurneys, wheelchairs, and patent lift equipment. Positioning of patients who are disabled may require considerable effort and working in awkward positions. Heavy lifting of incapacitated patients to be done with assistance from other employees and various Safe Patient Handling & Mobility devices (i.e. EZ-MAT, overhead lifts, slider boards, etc.) provided by the Radiology Section. Near vision correctable at 13 inches to 16 inches to Jaeger 1 - 4 and far vision correctable in one eye to 20/50 and to 20/100 in the other is acceptable. Hearing aids are permitted in X-Ray & CT. The ability to read written orders, computer screens, patient records, and equipment controls; and the ability to communicate with patients, physicians, and coworkers. Near visual acuity to assess patient's physical condition when performing exams and evaluating images for diagnostic quality. Must be able to speak and hear to communicate with patients; ability to make critical decisions, interact with patients of different ages and health conditions, maintain patient confidentiality, work under stressful conditions.
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: . 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: .
Additional information
During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
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.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy). VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date. The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If 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 at .