Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

Quick Facts

• Role: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (General Radiology)

• Level: GS-08 full performance level

• Schedule: Monday–Friday (Brunswick 8:00am–4:30pm; Hinesville 7:30am–4:00pm)

Description

The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist performs routine to complex general radiology examinations using digital radiography units, fluoroscopy equipment, portable imaging devices, and DEXA scanners. The technologist ensures accurate and timely image creation and release to storage systems (VistA and PACS), applies radiation safety and ALARA principles, and completes quality checks. The role also includes performing bone densitometry (DEXA) exams, including positioning, ROI evaluation, measurement quality checks, and archiving of results.

Responsibilities

• Operate digital/computerized radiography equipment (computer manipulation, patient/protocol/parameter selection, and image release)

• Verify patient identity and ensure the correct patient, correct exam, and correct protocol

• Perform routine to complex exams with awareness of radiologist/supervisor requirements and notify providers for urgent cases

• Practice radiation safety and ALARA (lead aprons, lead gloves, lead shields, proper collimation, technical factor selection, and compliance with radiation safety policies)

• Screen child-bearing age patients for pregnancy and document appropriately

• Confirm anatomy is demonstrated, markers/annotations are correct, orientation is correct, and images are properly archived/completed on PACS

• Register and case exams in a timely manner; notify the PACS administrator when corrections are needed

• Explain imaging procedures to patients to support understanding

• Perform DEXA bone densitometry exams: technical factor selection, positioning, ROI verification, measurement-quality assessment (including artifacts/pathology impact), recommending additional scans when needed, and flagging values requiring physician attention

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship

• Proficiency in written and spoken English

• ARRT(R) certification in Radiography and advanced ARRT certification in MR

• Completion of an accredited diagnostic radiologic technology program (at least 24 months full-time or equivalent) with certificate or associate degree (JRCERT or other DOE-recognized accreditor)

• At least 1 year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level demonstrating required clinical competencies

• Ability to work independently at the staff technologist full performance level with only occasional oversight for highly complex issues

• Background/security investigation clearance and successful pre-employment physical evaluation

• Completion of required onboarding and participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program

• Comply with additional VA employment conditions (including drug screening if selected, required documentation/I-9, and Selective Service registration if applicable)

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 leave after 12 months of employment

• Child Care Subsidy eligibility after 60 days for eligible full-time employees under the income threshold

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

• Insurance: federal health, vision, dental, term life, and long-term care options

• Telework: not available