Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MR)

<p>The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (MEDVAMC) is seeking a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to work in the Diagnostic Imaging Service, Magnetic Resonance Imaging section within the facility. This position will be located in Houston, TX. Employee at this level is considered fully functional and able to carry out their assigned tasks independently. Performs technical work in support of Diagnostic Radiology under the direct supervision of a physician.</p><h3>Major Duties</h3><p>Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional The duties of the advanced Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in Diagnostic Imaging Service include, but are not limited to: Operates MRI equipment to capture high-quality diagnostic images in accordance with radiologists' protocol and physician's specifications. Verifies patient identification and reviews medical history relevant to the MRI procedure. Screens patients for contraindications such as metal implants or pacemakers. Explains the MRI procedure clearly and addresses any concerns to ensure patient understanding and comfort, reducing any anxiety. Delivers patient care tailored to meet the cognitive, emotional, and developmental needs of adult and geriatric patients. Performs various MRI exams on head, neck, spine, chest, abdomen, pelvis and extremities, with and without contrast. Performs Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) exams of the veins and arteries throughout the body, including those in the brain, neck, heart, chest, abdomen, pelvis and limbs. Prepares, positions, and immobilizes patients accurately and comfortably in the MRI scanner using cushions, straps, or supports to ensure comfort, patient safety, high-quality imaging, and to minimize motion artifacts. Reviews all radiology requests for accuracy, appropriateness, and desired date. They investigate any questionable details and consult with the radiologist, if necessary; documents all relevant information in VistA and/or the patient's Electronic Health Record before contacting the patient to perform the exam. Maintains technical proficiency among the variety of scanners their perspective applications and protocols. Optimizes scan times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. This requires the ability to prioritize scheduled patients as well as the ability to accommodate the emergency patients. Inserts intravenous (IV) lines for contrast administration using aseptic technique, ensuring proper vein selection and secure placement. Technologist must maintain venipuncture competency. Participates in quality control and assurance programs to maintain optimal imaging procedures. Performs routine checks and basic troubleshooting on MRI equipment. Reports and documents any incidents, equipment malfunctions, or safety concerns in a timely manner. Maintains an organized and well-stocked MRI suite, including medical supplies, contrast agents, IV kits, syringes, PPE, linens and disinfectants. Independently organizes and completes assignments in a safe and timely manner. Aids team members as needed. Assists radiologist, other technologist, students from affiliated institutions and other health care professionals, as MEDVAMC is a teaching institute. The technologist must possess computer proficiency for effective use of technology in managing patient information, documentation and communication within a healthcare setting. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 12:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Subject to change based on the needs of the facility. Recruitment Incentive (Sign-on Bonus): Not Authorized. Permanent Change of Station (Relocation Assistance): Not Authorized. Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases. When setting pay, a higher step rate of the appropriate grade may be determined after consideration of higher or unique qualifications or special needs of the VA (Above Minimum Rate of the Grade). Paid Time Off: 37-50 days of annual paid time offer per year (13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid Federal holidays per year). Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child. Child Care Subsidy: After 60 days of employment, full time employees with a total family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of total eligible childcare costs for eligible children up to the monthly maximum of $416.66. Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement) Telework: Not Available. Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 580-00184-F Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized.</p><h3>Requirements</h3>You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.<h3>Education</h3>Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.