Empowering Veteran Care: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist at the Baltimore VA

Are you an experienced radiologic professional seeking a rewarding career serving those who served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs has opened a continuous hiring announcement for a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (GS-09) at the Baltimore VA Medical Center in Maryland.

Offering a competitive annual salary ranging from $81,990 to $106,594, robust federal health benefits, and a predictable evening work schedule, this position allows healthcare professionals to utilize their clinical expertise in a state-of-the-art facility. In this role, you will perform high-level diagnostic imaging, split between General X-ray and Computed Tomography (CT), ensuring high standards of patient safety and diagnostic precision.

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About the Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is America's largest integrated healthcare network, providing comprehensive care to millions of Veterans nationwide. Operating under the mission to honor and care for military Veterans and their families, the Department of Veterans Affairs emphasizes a holistic approach known as Whole Health.

The Baltimore VA Medical Center, located in downtown Baltimore, serves as the hub of the VA Maryland Health Care System. It features modern diagnostic capabilities, advanced surgical equipment, and specialized inpatient and outpatient clinics. Working for the VA offers healthcare professionals an opportunity to innovate, collaborate, and contribute directly to the physical and mental well-being of the nation's heroes.

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Core Duties & Clinical Responsibilities

As an Advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist at the GS-09 level, you will work independently on the evening shift (Monday–Friday, 3:30 PM to 12:00 AM). Your clinical focus will involve 75% General Radiography and 25% Computed Tomography (CT).

General Radiography (75%)

• Patient Interaction & Care: Verify patient identity, review medical charts, explain procedures clearly, and adjust positioning to accommodate injuries or severe physical limitations.
• Equipment Operation: Operate digital radiography (DR) and fluoroscopy equipment. Calculate appropriate exposure factors (kVp, mA, time, distance) to minimize radiation dose while achieving optimal image quality.
• Sterile & Infection Control: Maintain aseptic technique during contrast-enhanced exams or special procedures, ensuring proper usage of protective equipment and isolation protocols.

Computed Tomography & Imaging Systems (25%)

• CT Scanner Management: Conduct routine and complex CT examinations of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, and spine using power injectors for contrast enhancement.
• Digital Processing: Post-process images, apply required computer algorithms, and ensure accurate metadata tag mapping prior to uploading files.
• PACS & VISTA Integration: Case out examinations in VISTA and complete quality assurance checks in the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) for radiologist interpretation.
• Equipment Quality Control: Perform routine daily calibration and performance checks on imaging hardware, reporting any mechanical or software malfunctions immediately.

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Workload Breakdown: General X-Ray vs. CT Scan Responsibilities

Operational Area	Percentage of Time	Key Tasks & Requirements
General Diagnostic Radiography	75%	Routine body positioning, fluoroscopy, mobile X-ray units, patient shielding, contrast administration (oral/enema), first aid, basic life support.
Computed Tomography (CT)	25%	Multi-planar reconstructions, operating automated power injectors, advanced CT protocols, digital algorithm adjustments, PACS transmission.
System Administration & QC	Integrated	Daily equipment calibration, archiving digital images, verifying VISTA orders, performing quality assurance checks.

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Qualification Requirements & Prerequisites

To be considered for this GS-09 position, candidates must meet specific mandatory criteria established by federal regulations and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Basic Federal Mandates

1. U.S. Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens (non-citizens may only be appointed under limited exceptions when qualified citizens are unavailable).
2. Language Proficiency: Must demonstrate fluent oral and written English communication skills.
3. Background & Security: Successful completion of a background investigation and pre-employment drug screening.
4. Public Health Requirements: Mandatory participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Education & Certification Standards

• Education: Graduate of a full-time post-high school radiologic technology program lasting at least 24 months (Associate degree or certificate) accredited by JRCERT or an equivalent body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• Certification: Must hold current board certification in general radiography from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)(R). Advanced certification in CT is highly preferred for independent practice.

Specialized Experience Requirements

Candidates applying at the GS-09 level must possess at least one full year of specialized clinical experience equivalent to the GS-08 level in federal service. Candidates should demonstrate:

• Advanced clinical competency in complex positioning and scanning.
• Ability to independently evaluate factors that contraindicate procedures.
• Knowledge of intravenous technique, patient physical assessment, and universal precautions.
• Capability to balance high-volume patient throughput with intricate protocol execution.

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Compensation, Grade Level, & Benefits

This position is classified under the Federal General Schedule as GS-09, offering a competitive salary range of $81,990 to $106,594 per year.

Federal Employee Benefits Package

• Health Insurance: Access to top-tier health plans through the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program with substantial government contribution.
• Retirement System: Dual-tier retirement scheme consisting of the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) pension and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with up to 5% agency matching.
• Paid Time Off: Earn 13 days of paid vacation per year (increasing to 20 and 26 days with service longevity), 13 paid sick days, and 11 official federal holidays.
• Leave Accrual Credit: Qualifying candidates may request credit toward higher leave accrual rates based on prior non-federal or military experience.

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Expert Application Tips for Success

1. Detail Your Long-Form Resume: Unlike private sector resumes, federal resumes should be highly detailed. Specify job titles, exact start and end dates (Month/Year), average hours worked per week, and bullet points linking directly to the required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs).
2. Gather All Required Documentation: Ensure your application submission includes your ARRT credential card, official college transcripts, and long-form CV. Veterans must upload legible DD-214 documents indicating character of discharge.
3. Tailor to the KSA Metrics: Emphasize your independent decision-making skills, PACS knowledge, power injector experience, and safety protocols in your work history descriptions.
4. Apply Early: Although this announcement remains open through December 31, 2026, referrals occur periodically as vacancies open. Submitting your package early ensures early consideration.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What shift will I be working at the Baltimore VA?

This position is assigned to a fixed evening shift from Monday to Friday, 3:30 PM to 12:00 AM.

Is CT certification required prior to applying?

While primary ARRT(R) certification is mandatory, candidates without advanced CT certification may receive on-the-job training with supervision to build clinical competency toward certification.

Does this position offer relocation or PCS incentives?

No. Recruitment, relocation, and Permanent Change of Station (PCS) payments are not authorized for this position.

How does Veterans' Preference work for this role?

Eligible Veterans claiming 5-point or 10-point preference will have their status verified and credited during candidate evaluation, provided appropriate documentation (DD-214, SF-15) is submitted.

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Serving as a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist at the Baltimore VA Medical Center presents an outstanding opportunity to blend imaging expertise with public service. With excellent compensation, comprehensive retirement benefits, and a stable work schedule, this GS-09 position provides a fulfilling environment for dedicated imaging professionals. Review your eligibility, gather your credentials, and submit your application on USAJOBS today.