Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist: A Career of Impact at the Birmingham VA

Are you a skilled MRI technologist looking to transition into a leadership role? The Birmingham VA Health Care System is currently seeking a Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MR) to join their Imaging Services team. This is a unique opportunity to combine your technical expertise with clinical leadership, ensuring that our veterans receive world-class diagnostic care in a modern, well-equipped facility.

Job Responsibilities

As the Lead Technologist, you will be the cornerstone of the MRI department. Your duties will include:

Operational Oversight: Directing the daily activities of the MRI area and ensuring workflow efficiency.
Clinical Excellence: Performing complex MRI scans, including exams requiring contrast media and MR-guided biopsies.
Mentorship: Training staff technologists on safety protocols and complex imaging techniques.
Collaboration: Working closely with radiologists to optimize protocols and ensure diagnostic accuracy.

Core Competency Comparison

Feature	Lead Tech Requirements	Standard Tech Requirements
Scope of Responsibility	Oversight, coordination, & planning	Focus on individual patient scans
Technical Complexity	Advanced protocols & guidance	Routine and specialized imaging
Decision Making	High-level diagnostic workflow	Procedural execution

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and possess valid ARRT(R) and ARRT(MR) certifications. You must have completed an accredited radiologic technology program of at least 24 months. Additionally, all employees are subject to background investigations and must participate in the influenza vaccination program.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $82,083 to $106,704 per year. Beyond the competitive base pay, federal employees enjoy an industry-leading benefits package, including comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a robust pension, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Clearly document your experience in complex MRI imaging.
Check Your Docs: Ensure your VA Form 10-2850c is completed correctly.
Stay Proactive: Check your USAJOBS dashboard regularly to ensure your application status remains 'complete.'

Serving our veterans is a noble pursuit, and the Birmingham VA provides a professional, supportive, and advanced environment to do exactly that. If you meet the criteria and are ready to take the next step in your career, we encourage you to apply today via the USAJOBS portal.

Why This Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Mr) Job Matters

Step into a leadership role where cutting-edge MRI technology meets compassionate veteran care in beautiful Birmingham.

Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Mr) Job Overview

The Birmingham VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MR) to oversee the safety, quality, and coordination of our MRI clinical area. This role is pivotal in ensuring our veterans receive the highest standard of diagnostic imaging, balancing technical precision with administrative leadership to support our radiology team.

Requirements for Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Mr)

U.S. Citizenship
Certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT)(R)
Advanced ARRT(MR) certification
Completion of a 24-month (or equivalent) accredited radiologic technology program
Proficiency in written and spoken English
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
Completion of the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Ability to pass a background/security investigation
Registration with Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959

Preferred Qualifications for Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Mr)

Proven leadership ability in a clinical radiology setting
Extensive experience with superconducting magnets and MRI safety protocols
Expertise in cross-sectional anatomy and radio-frequency surface coils
Familiarity with complex PACS systems and digital radiography

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
✓Generous paid time off and federal holidays
✓Federal retirement pension plan
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) with employer matching
✓Flexible spending accounts
✓Life and long-term care insurance

💡 How to Apply Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Mr) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Mr) Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Complete the required occupational questionnaire.
Prepare your resume and necessary documents (VA Form 10-2850c, transcripts, DD-214 if applicable).
Upload all documents to your application profile.
Submit your application package before the deadline.
Monitor your status via the 'My Account' section on USAJOBS.

💡 General Tips

Be specific and clear in your resume; do not leave the hiring team to make assumptions about your experience.
Ensure your VA Form 10-2850c is included at the time of application.
Verify that your uploaded documents have cleared the virus scan.
Double-check that you have included transcripts if your qualification relies on education.
Apply well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this Lead Technologist position?

The position focuses on the coordination, safety, and performance of the MRI area, including oversight of staff, quality control, and performing complex MRI procedures.

Is on-call work required?

Yes, while the standard schedule is Monday-Friday, some on-call, weekend, and holiday work may be required based on operational needs.

Can I apply without an advanced ARRT(MR) certification?

Advanced certification is required for the independent performance of MRI duties. The vacancy notice highlights that certification is essential for this role.

What is the work schedule?

Typically Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:30pm, with occasional weekend and on-call rotations.

Is relocation assistance provided?

This position does not authorize relocation or recruitment incentives.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling the promise made to those who have served our nation. The Birmingham VA Medical Center is a 313-bed tertiary care facility that serves as a referral hub for Alabama and surrounding states. With strong academic affiliations, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham, the center provides a cutting-edge environment for medical professionals to grow.