Diagnostic Radiologic Tecnician (MRI)

01Basic Requirements

United States Citizenship: Be a citizen of the United States. (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3g.) English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d). 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).] [NOTE: Assignment to the clinical program director requires meeting JRCERT minimum educational standards as noted in the assignment description.] 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.

For employees who do not meet all of the basic requirements in this standard, but who met the qualifications applicable to the position at the time they were appointed to it, the following provisions apply: (1) DRTs that require a certification, may be reassigned, promoted up to and including the full performance (journeyman) level, or changed to lower grade within the occupation, but may not be promoted beyond the journey level or placed in supervisory or managerial positions.(2) DRTs that require a certification only at higher grade levels must meet the certification requirement before they can be promoted to those higher grade levels.(3) DRTs who are appointed on a temporary basis prior to the effective date of the qualification standard may not have their temporary appointment extended or be reappointed, on a temporary or permanent basis, until they fully meet the basic requirements of the standard. (4) DRTs initially grandfathered into this occupation, who subsequently obtain additional education and/or certification that meet all of the basic requirements of this qualification standard must maintain the required credentials as a condition of employment in the occupation. (5) Employees who are retained as a DRT under this provision and subsequently leave the occupation lose protected status and must meet the full VA qualification standard requirements in effect at the time of reentry as a DRT.

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. Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. 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).

02Grade Determinations

In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist GS-09 Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level GS-08 directly related to the position being filled. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.

The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated. 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.

03Preferred Experience

The preferred candidate for a CT Technologist should have an advance CT registry with ARRT and a minimum of 1 year of CT experience. Additionally, must possess a current BLS certification to ensure preparedness for emergency situations and safe patient care. Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.

04Physical Requirements

Must perform the essential functions of the job considering visual, physical, mental, and emotional capacities, without endangering their health or the health of their co-workers. Must be able to perform duties outlined in the Series Qualification Standards. Must meet CDC vaccination recommendations for public safety, and occupational exposures to infectious diseases and applicable regulations for which vaccinations will be offered to employees.

Major duties includes but not limited to: Operates and maintains advanced MRI equipment, ensuring cleanliness, proper mechanical function, and adherence to infection control policies. Performs a wide range of routine, specialized, and complex MRI procedures, tailoring protocols and techniques to individual patient needs and clinical indications.

Conducts daily quality control and assurance measures on MRI systems, laser imager, and patient monitoring equipment, and monitors PACS to ensure proper image archiving and transfer. Maintains supply levels and reports equipment malfunctions for prompt repair and maintenance, including cryogen levels and software/hardware updates. Serves as a liaison between the MRI department, engineering, equipment manufacturers, and radiology staff, facilitating communication and service calls.

Prioritizes and coordinates MRI scheduling, evaluates urgent requests, and maintains accurate patient records in VistA and CPRS according to established business rules. Performs venipuncture and administers contrast materials as required; monitors patients during exams using appropriate safety measures and patient monitoring equipment. Enforces and educates staff on MRI safety guidelines, restricting unsafe items from the suite, and ensures safety for all individuals entering the MRI area.

Reviews and updates MRI protocols, policies, and procedures; stays current with new developments through continuing education and staff training. Teaches and cross-trains radiologic technologists and students in MRI techniques, physics, positioning, and equipment operation. Troubleshoots imaging artifacts, adjusts scanning parameters, and takes additional images as needed to ensure optimal diagnostic quality.

Consults with radiologists and technologists on protocol changes and new imaging techniques; assists in developing and implementing new MRI applications. Demonstrates proficiency in imaging all anatomical planes, optimizing pulse sequences, and adjusting technical factors to enhance image quality and diagnostic yield. Rotates to assigned work areas as needed, accepts temporary assignments, and participates in on-call, weekend, or holiday coverage to ensure continuous service.

The MRI technologist will be on-call as required to provide emergency imaging services. Supports regulatory compliance, participates in safety and quality improvement programs, and performs administrative tasks as required to fulfill departmental needs. Other duties as assigned Work Schedule: Monday thru Friday 0700 - 1530 Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #11135-F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Maintains professional conduct, adheres to departmental dress and leave policies, and performs all other duties as assigned to support the mission of Diagnostic Imaging Service.