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The Michael E DeBakey VA Medical Center (MEDVAMC) is seeking a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist - Mammography. This position will be located in Houston, TX. Current, permanent VA employee or Federal employee from another agency, you should apply under CBST-11748738-23-LG. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. English language Proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d). Certification: All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R). Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or Mammography (M) duties performed independently, as applicable. Advanced certification indicates that the incumbent can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination. In modalities that require advanced certification, to support their continued development, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist. Education: Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from [other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education. Grade Determinations: DRT (Mammography), GS-9 Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Examples of GS-8 experience include but not limited to ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines, knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed, knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results, ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed, skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers, and knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. Resume must include hours per week for work experience credit. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): (KSAs must be clearly reflected in resume under description of duties in order to be found qualified for this position/grade level). i. *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. ii. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. iii. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. iv. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. v. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. vi. Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. References: VA Handbook 5005/119, Part II, Appendix G25, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office. This vacancy is announced at the GS-9 level, above the full performance level. Physical Requirements: Heavy lifting (45 pounds and over), moderate lifting and carrying (15-44 pounds), light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds), reaching over shoulder, use of fingers and both hands, walking, standing and bending/stooping up to 8 hours, kneeling, climbing, both legs required, ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously, far vision correctable up to 20/20 in one eye and 20/40 in the other, ability to distinguish basic colors, hearing (aid permitted), emotional stability, reaching in strained positions, good dexterity. Environmental factors include outside and inside, excessive heat, cold, humidity, dampness/chill, dry atmospheric conditions, excessive noise (intermittent), constant noise, dust, radiant energy, electrical energy, working around machinery with moving parts, working around moving objects, vibration, working closely with others, working alone, protracted/irregular hours of work. (See VA Directive and Handbook 5019, Employee Occupational Health Services). ["Incumbent possesses specific knowledge and training of the location, appearance, and function of the breast to interpret the examination request accurately; understands the functioning and interrelationship of the breast imaging techniques and modalities using the methods and techniques which will identify breast abnormalities on the digital display monitor or image Provides services in mammography, including performing very difficult and highly specialized radiographic examinations of the breast mammography utilizing a variety of specialized procedures that require precise positioning producing quality results. Sets up the exam room, assuring sufficient quantities of sterile supplies, and assures all needed equipment is present and in working order. Provides quality patient care when receiving, explaining the procedure, and positioning the patients. Sets the correct technical factors, sets up and adjusts accessory equipment, sets the required exposure for the requested procedure, secures the confidence and cooperation of the patient during the examination procedures, and recognizes exceptional diagnostic challenges. Communicates effectively with patients and the patient's primary care providers all pertinent information to ensure compliance for annual, follow up, unresolved, prior imaging, scheduling, and biopsy studies. Places screening orders under the PCP for all patients due, overdue, or patient self-referral direct scheduling. Works to ensure reports and images are obtained for Breast Imaging performed outside of the MEDVAMC and uploads reports and images into PACS/CPRS. Reviews patient orders, prior reports, and scheduling to prevent any interruptions in patient care and workflow. Assists with interventional breast biopsy exams utilizing surgical sterile techniques. Performs proper preparation of sterile trays, proper labeling of medications dispensed, knowledge of supplies, and assuring measures have been taken to prevent contamination of the patient and equipment. Incumbent will work with the radiologist/ physician as a member of the surgical /mammography team. Interventional breast procedures performed may include, but are not limited to, biopsies, localizations, aspirations, ductograms, and contrast studies. Confirms doctor's orders and checks patient identification. Discusses procedures with patient and verifies that patient does not have allergies. Provides the patient with procedure instructions and positions the patient appropriately for the exam to be performed. Sets exposure factors. Takes necessary scout images as ordered by radiologists prior to procedure and labels correctly. Ensures all prior images are available for radiologist. Incumbent is compliant with RME cleaning according to policy and manufacturer's guidelines. Performs the processes to prepare Reusable Medical Equipment (RME) per facility SOPs specific to each device according to manufacturer's recommendations as required. Ensures and maintains compliance with all QC and QA requirements as per VHA policy, FDA/MQSA regulations, and ACR accreditation standards. Collects and reviews data and images with the Mammography Manager and/or Lead Interpreting Physician, interpreting physician(s), and medical physicist(s). Ensures data is entered in the tracking/reporting system, manages reports and monitors data to facilitate compliance with required regulatory and accreditation standards. Assists with organizing and maintaining a procedure manual for mammography examinations. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-4:00pm, 8:00am-4:30pm, or 9:00am-5:30pm; Weekends/Holidays when required; Subject to change based on agency needs. Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 580-00706-F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

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