Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Mammography)

Quick Facts

• Work Schedule: 7:30am–4:00pm (Monday–Friday)

• Telework: Not authorized

• Virtual: Not a virtual position

• Sign-on Bonus/Relocation: Not authorized

Description

Performs independent duties in the Mammography section, including screening mammograms, diagnostic mammograms, and assisting with interventional breast procedures to obtain diagnostic studies for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Manages mammography workflow (patient scheduling and logs), performs exposures and pathology-related imaging, executes Quality Control, and supports ongoing ACR/FDA documentation compliance.

Troubleshoots mammography equipment through scheduled QC monitoring, coordinates film/disc image exchange with outside providers, and maintains safe, clean exam/work areas.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate, plan, and execute work in the mammography workflow to expedite departmental throughput.

• Schedule patients; maintain daily logs and records for statistical management.

• Receive/position patients, explain procedures to reduce anxiety, and perform screening and diagnostic mammograms.

• Assist radiologists with interventional breast procedures: needle localization, breast biopsy, and cyst aspiration; make exposures after needle insertion.

• Image breast tissue for pathology after procedures.

• Perform Quality Control, including grid alignment/artifact checks, phantom and reproducibility testing, AEC density/field sensitivity checks, integrity tests, view box consistency/uniformity, and compression tests.

• Create and maintain mammography documents/reports and submit required ACR updates to support compliance and licensing.

• Recognize breast anatomy/pathology and adjust techniques for optimal visualization.

• Monitor daily/weekly/quarterly QC, troubleshoot equipment, and report major malfunctions promptly.

• Coordinate incoming/outgoing films and discs; dispatch images/reports to outside physicians/hospitals; track radiographs on loan.

• Maintain ARRT and BCLS certifications; stay current on mammography technology advances.

• Keep rooms clean and provide management briefing reports and improvement proposals.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship

• Proficiency in written and spoken English

• ARRT (R) certification in general radiologic technology

• Advanced ARRT certification (M) for mammography duties performed independently (or on-the-job training with oversight if not advanced)

• 24+ months (or equivalent) of full-time diagnostic radiologic technology training from a JRCERT-accredited program (or approved alternative accreditation)

• Selective Service registration (for males born after 12/31/1959)

• Subject to background/security investigation and required pre-employment onboarding

• May be subject to urinalysis drug screening (if selected for a testing designated position)

• Required participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program for VA Health Care Personnel

• Pass a 1–2 year trial period with continued employment contingent on certification

• Must meet physical demands, including lifting 45+ lbs, prolonged standing/walking, and ability to work while wearing a lead apron

• For GS-9: at least 1 year of directly related experience equivalent to the next lower grade, demonstrating required clinical competencies

Benefits

• Competitive salary with regular salary increases

• Paid Time Off: 37–50 days annual paid time off per year (annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays)

• Parental leave: up to 12 weeks paid after 12 months of employment

• Possible child care subsidy after 60 days (income-based)

• Retirement: traditional federal pension (with 5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% contributions

• Insurance options: federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (carry into retirement for many programs)