Career Opportunity: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Computed Tomography at the VA Salt Lake City

Are you a skilled Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist with expertise in Computed Tomography (CT)? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking dedicated professionals to join their team at the Salt Lake City Health Care System. This is a unique chance to leverage your advanced imaging skills while making a profound impact on the lives of the Veterans who have served our nation. Located in the scenic and vibrant city of Salt Lake City, Utah, this position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to work in a leading teaching hospital environment equipped with cutting-edge technology.

About the Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in the nation's military. The VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, part of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), serves approximately 70,000 Veterans across Utah, Idaho, and Nevada. It comprises the George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center and ten community clinics. As a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Utah, the Salt Lake City VA offers exceptional opportunities for professional growth, education, and research. The system is committed to providing patient-centered care, utilizing advanced technology, and fostering a supportive work environment that promotes a healthy work-life balance. Salt Lake City itself boasts a stunning natural setting at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, offering abundant outdoor recreational activities, a burgeoning tech industry ('Silicon Slopes'), a rich performing arts scene, and a diverse cultural landscape, making it an ideal location for career and personal life.

Job Responsibilities: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Computed Tomography

As a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist specializing in Computed Tomography (CT), you will play a crucial role in providing high-quality diagnostic imaging services to Veterans. Your responsibilities will encompass a wide range of duties, including:

• Performing CT Examinations: Independently conduct routine and complex CT scans of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine, extremities, and vascular system. This involves applying in-depth knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and medical terminology.
• Advanced CT Procedures: Execute complex CT examinations as assigned and credentialed, including procedures like biopsies and vascular studies.
• General Radiologic Duties: When operationally necessary and within your scope of practice, perform general diagnostic radiography, portable exams, and fluoroscopic procedures.
• Protocol Management: Select, modify, and apply appropriate CT protocols based on detailed patient assessment, including clinical indication, history, lab results, prior imaging, patient cooperation, implanted devices, and trauma status.
• Technical Problem-Solving: Identify, evaluate, and resolve technical and clinical challenges by selecting appropriate solutions from established options.
• Image Optimization: Utilize advanced CT software and post-processing applications to generate clinically useful images and reconstructions.
• Patient Care and Assessment: Review electronic medical records (EMR), imaging requests, and relevant clinical history to prepare for exams. Interview patients and their families to verify identity, explain procedures, gather history, assess cooperation, and identify potential contraindications. Provide clear, respectful, and trauma-informed communication tailored to diverse patient needs.
• Monitoring and Safety: Assess patients during and after procedures for clinical changes and potential complications. Champion Safe Patient Handling & Mobility initiatives. Safely administer contrast materials via various routes using power injectors, monitoring for adverse effects. Apply radiation protection and dose-optimization principles, including ALARA practices, and actively participate in dose-reduction processes.
• Quality Control: Perform required daily equipment checks, quality-control procedures, and operational assessments. Identify and report image quality concerns, equipment malfunctions, or safety hazards promptly.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate patient, procedure, contrast, dose, image, and examination-status information in VA electronic systems (e.g., VistA/CPRS, VistA Imaging, PACS, RIS, JLV). Ensure correct labeling, routing, and availability of images and data.
• Collaboration and Coordination: Coordinate care with clinics and departments, balancing the needs of patients, staff, and the service.
• Training and Mentorship: Provide technical guidance, orientation, and informal training to students, new employees, and colleagues regarding CT workflow, safety practices, equipment operation, and protocols.

Requirements and Qualifications

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

• U.S. Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
• English Proficiency: Must be proficient in spoken and written English.
• ARRT Certification: Hold current certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in general radiologic technology (R).
• Advanced CT Certification: For assignments involving independent CT duties, an advanced ARRT certification in Computed Tomography is mandatory.
• Education: Completion of a full-time diagnostic radiologic technology training course of at least 24 months (or equivalent) from a JRCERT-accredited program or a program recognized by the Department of Education.
• Experience (GS-9): At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-8) that directly relates to the duties of the position and demonstrates the required clinical competencies.

Key Competencies:

• Ability to balance patient and staff needs with complex scan demands.
• Knowledge of patient medical records and healthcare provider communication.
• Ability to assess contraindications for procedures.
• Proficiency in basic first aid and life support.
• Understanding of aseptic techniques and universal precautions.
• Knowledge of pre-, intra-, and post-procedural patient care.

Salary Overview

The annual salary for this Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (GS-9) position ranges from $80,989 to $105,291. Salary is determined based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and the specific grade level.

Benefits and Incentives

Joining the VA offers a robust benefits package and unique incentives:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual (vacation) leave and sick leave accrual, plus federal holidays.
• Retirement: Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency contributions.
• Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuing education, training, and career advancement.
• Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP): Eligible candidates may receive significant student loan repayment assistance (up to $200,000).
• Work-Life Balance: The VA promotes a healthy work-life balance, and Salt Lake City offers extensive recreational and cultural activities.

Application Process

Applying for this exciting opportunity is straightforward:

1. Create or Log In: Visit 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. Select Resume: Choose your USAJOBS resume and any other supporting documents you wish to submit.
4. Complete Questionnaire: Fill out the occupational questionnaire thoroughly and accurately.
5. Submit Package: Ensure your complete application package, including all required documents, is submitted by the closing date of December 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.

Important Note: It is your responsibility to ensure all required documentation is submitted on time. Errors or omissions may affect consideration.

Application Tips for Success

• Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize experience and skills directly related to CT imaging, patient care, radiation safety, and electronic health record systems.
• Be Specific: Clearly describe your responsibilities and accomplishments in previous roles, using keywords from the job announcement.
• Highlight Certifications: Ensure your ARRT certifications (general and advanced for CT) are prominent.
• Upload All Documents: Double-check the 'Required Documents' section and upload all necessary attachments, such as licenses, transcripts (if using education to qualify), and SF-50s (if applicable).
• Answer Questionnaire Honestly: Provide truthful and detailed responses to the occupational questionnaire, as these answers are crucial for qualification assessment.
• Submit Early: Avoid last-minute submission issues by applying well in advance of the closing deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: What is the salary range for this position? A: The annual salary ranges from $80,989 to $105,291, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Q: Is advanced ARRT certification required for this role? A: Yes, advanced ARRT certification in Computed Tomography (CT) is required for performing independent CT duties.
• Q: Can non-U.S. citizens apply? A: Non-citizens may be appointed only if qualified U.S. citizens cannot be recruited, in accordance with VA policy.
• Q: What is the work schedule? A: The work schedule involves varying shifts, including days, nights, weekends, holidays, and call rotation.
• Q: Are there opportunities for student loan repayment? A: Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide significant student loan repayment assistance to qualified participants.
• Q: What is the application closing date? A: The application closing date is December 31, 2026.

This Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Computed Tomography position with the VA in Salt Lake City offers a rewarding career path for experienced professionals. It combines challenging work with a supportive environment, excellent benefits, and the profound satisfaction of serving America's Veterans. If you are ready to advance your career and make a tangible difference, we encourage you to apply.