Medical Instrument Technician - Diagnostic Ultrasound at the Syracuse VA Medical Center

Embark on a rewarding career path serving those who have bravely served our nation. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is actively seeking a dedicated and skilled Medical Instrument Technician specializing in Diagnostic Ultrasound to join the esteemed team at the Syracuse VA Medical Center (VAMC) in New York. This is a significant opportunity to utilize your expertise in a vital role, contributing directly to the health and well-being of America's Veterans. If you are passionate about diagnostic imaging and committed to providing exceptional patient care, this position offers a stable and fulfilling career within a mission-driven organization.

About the Department of Veterans Affairs and Syracuse VAMC

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) stands as a cornerstone of care and support for the nation's Veterans. Its mission is to "care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." The VA operates one of the largest integrated healthcare systems in the United States, providing a comprehensive range of medical, surgical, and long-term care services. The Syracuse VAMC is a tertiary care facility, offering advanced medical, surgical, rehabilitative, emergency, and intensive care services. It also boasts an extensive array of outpatient specialty services, a spinal cord injury center, and broad primary care and specialty programs, making it a comprehensive hub for Veteran healthcare.

Job Responsibilities

As a Medical Instrument Technician - Diagnostic Ultrasound, you will be an integral part of the Clinical Support ICC Imaging Service, Ultrasound Section at the Syracuse VAMC. Your responsibilities will encompass the full spectrum of diagnostic ultrasound procedures, ensuring the highest standards of quality and patient care. Key duties include:

• Performing Examinations: Conduct complex diagnostic general and vascular ultrasound examinations of the abdomen, neck, chest, and extremities with precision and accuracy.
• Ensuring Image Quality: Operate advanced ultrasound equipment, making multiple simultaneous settings and adjustments to yield definitive diagnostic findings. Ensure optimal quality diagnostic ultrasound imaging for interpretation by radiologists.
• Collaboration and Coordination: Work closely with technologists, radiologists, clinicians, and clerical staff to ensure efficient coordination of activities, maintain quality control, and achieve high-quality diagnostic results and patient satisfaction.
• Patient Care: Provide excellent patient care throughout the examination process, using aseptic techniques as necessary and ensuring patient comfort and safety.
• Data Management: Utilize filmless radiology methods (PACS) for examinations and archiving. Gather related patient information from electronic charts and PACS for correlation with other studies.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate ultrasound records, including diagnostic logs, patient schedules, and procedure logs. Edit and register patients in the computerized VISTA system and the HIS-RIS interface.
• Quality Assurance: Assist with quality assurance testing on ultrasound units to ensure peak performance and maintain quality assurance records.
• Training and Mentorship: Function as a proctor for allied health ultrasound technology program students and staff, providing clinical training for ARDMS board entry requirements. Provide training to staff on ultrasound procedures and processes.
• Communication: Advise radiologists, vascular physicians, or referring physicians of significant abnormalities requiring immediate attention during an examination.
• Problem Solving: Utilize independent interpretation of ultrasound images and determine necessary ultrasonic procedures to yield definitive diagnostic findings.
• Supply and Equipment Management: Maintain adequate supplies and ensure equipment is in optimal working condition.
• Compliance: Adhere to all applicable laws, federal regulations, VA statutes, and policy regarding the protection of sensitive and electronic files.
• Continuous Learning: Stay current on changing and new developments in the field of diagnostic ultrasound.

Requirements for the Position

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following essential requirements:

• Citizenship: Must be a citizen of the United States.
• English Proficiency: Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
• Background Investigation: Subject to a background and security investigation.
• Physical Examination: Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation.
• Drug Screening: Applicants tentatively selected are subject to urinalysis for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Refusal to test will result in denial of employment.
• Selective Service: Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
• Identification: Acceptable forms of identification are required for pre-employment processes. Note: Effective May 7, 2025, non-REAL ID compliant driver's licenses or state-issued ID cards cannot be used for employment verification.
• Trial Period: A 1 or 2-year trial period may be required upon appointment.
• Influenza Vaccination: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.

Education and Experience:

While there are no specific educational requirements for this occupation, education may be substituted for experience only at the GS-4 and GS-5 levels. For this GS-9 position, applicants must possess at least 1 year of specialized experience comparable to the next lower grade level (GS-8), which directly relates to the duties of the position. This experience must demonstrate the required knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) to provide all aspects of diagnostic ultrasonography services. Candidates must also demonstrate technical KSAs and the potential to acquire assignment-specific KSAs, including knowledge of complex procedures, JCAHO requirements, communication skills, and supervisory abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

While not mandatory, the following qualifications will significantly enhance your application:

• Possession of 2-3 years of employed diagnostic general and advanced vascular ultrasound experience.
• Registration by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) with certification in Sonography or Vascular Sonography.
• Registration by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS), preferably with AB or VT certifications.
• Current Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications.

Salary Overview

The salary for this Medical Instrument Technician - Diagnostic Ultrasound position (GS-9) ranges from $76,781 to $99,821 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits

The Department of Veterans Affairs offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees. While specific benefits are detailed separately, employees can expect:

• Annual Leave: Federal employees earn annual leave at rates of 4, 6, or 8 hours per pay period, based on years of creditable federal service. Credit for prior work or military experience may be granted towards annual leave accrual.
• Health and Life Insurance: Federal employees are eligible for Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) and Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) programs.
• Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) or the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS).
• Paid Federal Holidays: Enjoy paid time off for federal holidays.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth.

For more detailed information on VA benefits, please visit http://www.vacareers.va.gov/why-choose-va/benefits/index.asp.

Application Process

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

1. Create or Log In: Visit USAJOBS (www.usajobs.gov) and create a new account or log in to your existing one.
2. Apply Online: Click the 'Apply Online' button on the job announcement.
3. Resume and Documents: Upload your most current USAJOBS resume and any other required supporting documents.
4. Occupational Questionnaire: Complete the occupational questionnaire thoroughly and honestly. You can preview the questionnaire here: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13088368.
5. Submit: Ensure all parts of your application, including the questionnaire and required documents, are submitted by the closing date: December 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Important Notes:

• Your application package must be complete by the deadline for consideration.
• It is your responsibility to ensure all information and documentation is accurate and submitted on time.
• The initial cut-off date for referral is October 23, 2026, with subsequent weekly cut-offs thereafter. Applying by the initial cut-off is recommended for earliest consideration.

Application Tips

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly details your experience and qualifications, directly addressing the requirements and preferred qualifications outlined in the announcement. Use keywords from the job description.
• Be Specific: Provide concrete examples of your skills and accomplishments. Avoid vague statements, as the agency may not make assumptions about your experience.
• Gather Documents Early: Collect all necessary documents, such as certifications, licenses, and proof of education, well in advance of the closing date.
• Veterans' Preference: If you are a veteran eligible for preference, make sure to claim it in the questionnaire and provide the correct documentation (e.g., DD-214, SF-15) as instructed.
• Review Carefully: Before submitting, review your entire application for accuracy and completeness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the salary range for this position? A1: The annual salary for the Medical Instrument Technician - Diagnostic Ultrasound position at the GS-9 grade level is between $76,781 and $99,821.

Q2: What is the work schedule? A2: The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Q3: Is this a remote or virtual position? A3: No, this position is not virtual or remote. It requires on-site work at the Syracuse VA Medical Center.

Q4: What qualifications are essential for this role? A4: Essential qualifications include U.S. Citizenship, English proficiency, and at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-8 level in diagnostic ultrasonography. Specific technical KSAs are also required.

Q5: What are the preferred qualifications? A5: Preferred qualifications include 2-3 years of additional experience in diagnostic ultrasound, and certifications such as ARDMS or ARRT, along with BCLS/ACLS.

Q6: When does the announcement close? A6: The announcement remains open until December 31, 2026, with an initial referral cut-off on October 23, 2026, and subsequent weekly cut-offs.

This Medical Instrument Technician - Diagnostic Ultrasound position at the Syracuse VA Medical Center offers a unique chance to serve Veterans while advancing your professional career in a stable and respected healthcare environment. With competitive pay, valuable benefits, and the opportunity to make a profound impact, this role is ideal for a skilled and compassionate diagnostic imaging professional. Take the next step in your career and apply today to join the dedicated team at the VA!