Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Opportunity at the Baltimore VA Medical Center

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing exceptional healthcare to our nation's heroes. The Baltimore VA Medical Center is actively seeking a dedicated and skilled Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) to join their esteemed team. This position offers a unique opportunity to utilize advanced imaging technology, contribute to patient care, and be part of an organization that honors and serves those who have served our country. If you are a certified radiologic technologist looking for a rewarding career in a supportive environment, this GS-9 level position may be the perfect fit for you.

About the Department of Veterans Affairs

The Department of Veterans Affairs is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, dedicated to providing comprehensive health services to eligible military veterans. The VA's mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in the nation's military. The Baltimore VA Medical Center is a vital component of this mission, offering a wide range of medical services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, to veterans in the region. The VA is committed to a "Whole Health" approach, empowering individuals to take charge of their health and well-being.

Job Responsibilities

As a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist at the Baltimore VA Medical Center, your primary responsibilities will encompass a blend of general X-ray and Computed Tomography (CT) duties, approximately 75% and 25% respectively. You will be instrumental in:

• Receiving and Interpreting Requests: Accurately interpret diagnostic requests from radiologists, lead technologists, and medical officers.
• Patient Interaction: Secure patient confidence and cooperation by explaining procedures, positioning patients comfortably and safely, and shielding them appropriately. You will also adapt positioning for patients with complex medical conditions.
• Performing Procedures: Independently perform a variety of diagnostic examinations, including complex and routine radiographic imaging of the head, trunk, and extremities. This includes administering contrast materials orally, via enema, and intravenously for specific procedures.
• Operating Equipment: Skillfully operate digital radiography, fluoroscopy, and advanced CT equipment. This involves determining and setting precise technical factors (time, distance, kilovoltage, milliamperage) to ensure accurate image acquisition.
• Quality Assurance: Conduct routine quality control, equipment calibration, and promptly report any malfunctions to ensure optimal equipment performance. You will review CT/DR images, transfer them to the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS), and ensure exams are complete and ready for radiologist interpretation. This includes using power injectors for contrast-enhanced CT procedures.
• Specialized Procedures: Perform procedures such as gastrointestinal and urologic studies, ensuring all necessary sterile supplies, local anesthetics, contrast materials, and equipment are readily available.
• Professional Development: Stay abreast of new developments in the field and recommend advancements to improve the radiology section's operations.
• Image Management: Capture images using DR and CT, apply necessary algorithms, perform post-processing, verify patient information, and transmit images to the PACS.
• Administrative Tasks: Case out studies in VISTA and perform quality assurance checks in PACS.

Requirements and Qualifications

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following basic requirements:

• Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen. Non-citizens may be considered only if qualified U.S. citizens cannot be recruited.
• Certification: Must possess current certification in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) (R).
• Advanced Certification: For any duties involving computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or Mammography (M) performed independently, advanced ARRT certification is mandatory. Technologists without advanced certification may receive on-the-job training with oversight.
• Education: Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in diagnostic radiologic technology, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or a recognized accrediting agency, evidenced by a certificate or associate degree.
• English Proficiency: Must be proficient in spoken and written English.
• Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-8) is required. This experience must demonstrate the clinical competencies necessary for independent performance at the GS-9 level, including the ability to handle complex procedures, gather patient information, assess contraindications, and understand basic life support and radiography principles.
• KSAs: Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities include balancing patient/staff needs, gathering relevant information, assessing contraindications, understanding first aid and life support, employing aseptic techniques, performing physical assessments, and providing pre/procedural/post-procedural patient care.

Preferred Experience:

• One year of experience is preferred.

Physical Requirements:

This role involves moderate physical demands, including lifting and carrying up to 45 lbs, prolonged periods of pulling, pushing, walking, sitting, and standing (6-8 hours). It requires rapid mental and muscular coordination, the ability to transfer patients, and may involve exposure to infected patients and contaminated materials, necessitating the use of protective clothing. You may also encounter combative patients and must be capable of working effectively in stressful situations.

| Requirement Category | Details | | :------------------- | :------ | | | Citizenship | U.S. Citizen | | Certification | ARRT (R) required; Advanced ARRT for specialized duties | | Education | 24-month accredited radiologic technology program | | Experience | 1 year equivalent to GS-8, demonstrated competencies | | English Proficiency| Fluent in spoken and written English | | Physical Demands | Moderate lifting, prolonged standing/walking, coordination | | Work Environment | Potential exposure to infectious diseases, combative patients |

Salary Overview

The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist position is classified at the GS-9 grade level. The annual salary ranges from $81,990 to $106,594. The specific salary will be determined based on the applicant's qualifications, experience, and adherence to federal pay scales.

Benefits

Choosing a career with the Department of Veterans Affairs offers a comprehensive and robust benefits package designed to support employees and their families:

• Health Insurance: Access to affordable and comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Paid Time Off: Earn generous annual (vacation) leave, sick leave, and paid federal holidays. Federal employees earn annual leave at rates of 4, 6, or 8 hours per pay period, depending on years of creditable service.
• Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) with a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) that includes agency matching contributions.
• Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) provides coverage options.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuing education, training, and career advancement within the VA system.
• Work-Life Balance: While this specific position has a set evening schedule, the VA generally supports work-life balance initiatives.

Application Process

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please follow these steps:

1. Create or Log In to USAJOBS: Visit the USAJOBS website and create an account or log in to your existing one.
2. Complete the Occupational Questionnaire: You will need to complete a detailed questionnaire that assesses your qualifications for the role. You can preview the questionnaire here: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13083981.
3. Build or Upload Your Resume: Create a federal-style resume or upload a detailed long-form resume/CV that highlights your relevant experience, skills, and education.
4. Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have the following documents ready for upload:
   • Long-form resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   • Professional Certification (e.g., ARRT)
   • SF-50/Notification of Personnel Action (if you are a current or former federal employee)
   • Transcripts (if using education to qualify)
   • Cover Letter (optional)
   • DD-214 or Statement of Service (if claiming Veterans' Preference)
   • SF-15 (if claiming 10-point Veterans' Preference)
5. Submit Your Application: Submit your complete application package, including all required documents and questionnaire responses, by the closing date of December 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Note: It is crucial to ensure all information and documents are submitted accurately and by the deadline to be considered for this position.

Application Tips

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to specifically address the requirements and desired qualifications mentioned in the job announcement. Use keywords from the announcement to help your application stand out.
• Be Specific: Clearly describe your responsibilities and accomplishments in each previous role, quantifying your achievements whenever possible.
• Review Your Questionnaire Responses: Ensure your answers to the occupational questionnaire align with the information provided in your resume and supporting documents. Inconsistencies can lead to disqualification.
• Check Document Requirements: Carefully review the "Required Documents" section to ensure you have submitted all necessary forms and certifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Utilize Veterans' Preference: If you are a veteran, make sure to claim preference and submit the appropriate documentation (DD-214, SF-15) to receive the full benefit of your service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: What is the salary range for this position? A: The salary for this GS-9 position ranges from $81,990 to $106,594 per year.

• Q: What are the essential qualifications needed? A: Key qualifications include U.S. citizenship, ARRT certification (R) with advanced certification for specialized duties, completion of an accredited radiologic technology program, and at least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-8 level.

• Q: Is this a full-time position? A: Yes, this is a full-time position with a standard Monday-Friday work schedule from 3:30 PM to 12:00 AM.

• Q: What benefits does the VA offer? A: VA employees receive comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, generous paid time off, retirement savings plans, and life insurance.

• Q: Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen? A: Generally, U.S. citizenship is required. Non-citizens may be appointed only when it's not possible to recruit qualified U.S. citizens according to VA policy.

• Q: What is the application deadline? A: The application deadline is December 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

This Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist position at the Baltimore VA Medical Center offers a chance to contribute meaningfully to the health and well-being of our nation's veterans. By leveraging your expertise in medical imaging and working within a dedicated healthcare team, you can make a significant impact. The VA provides a supportive work environment, competitive salary, and comprehensive benefits, making it an excellent place to advance your career. If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about serving veterans, we encourage you to apply today and become part of the VA's vital mission.