Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist

Join to apply for the Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist role at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
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This range is provided by U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$76,276.00/yr - $99,166.00/yr

Serves as a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist performing routine to moderately complex radiographic examination procedures. These exams are achieved by using diagnostic x‑ray equipment such as fluoroscopic units, digital diagnostic units, portable units and C‑Arm equipment used in the Operating Room.

• 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:
  Must be proficient in both written and spoken English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402 (d) - and 7407 (d).
• 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).
• Certification:
  Must be certified in Advanced Radiology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT).
• May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees).
• Grade Determinations:
  Completion of at least 1 year of qualifying experience equivalent to the GS‑7 grade level (for a total of 3 years of DRT experience).
• Qualifying experience would include independently performing a substantially full range of duties but receive occasional oversight or direction for highly complex issues and providing services in specialized areas of radiologic technology.
• KSAs:
  Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines; knowledge of calibration parameters and patient information; ability to monitor patient’s physiologic changes and keep the radiologist informed; skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy; knowledge of anatomy and cross‑sectional anatomy; etc.

• Perform fluoroscopic examinations under the guidance and direction of the radiologists.
• Prepare contrast materials under radiologist direction for exams requiring injectable solutions (IVP, cystogram, cholangiograms, fistulograms, etc.) and for oral/rectal GI tract exams.
• Obtain patient consent for injected media and handle needles, syringes, oral contrast, barium, enema bags, and drinks.
• Ensure quality and quantity of radiographic exams, minimize patient dosage, and reduce costs.
• Send emergent studies after hours to off‑site teleradiology stations, ensuring proper forms are completed.
• Monitor quality assurance of images (positioning, labeling, technique) and verify PACS transfers.
• Practice radiation safety using lead aprons, gloves, shields, lead‑lined walls, collimation, and film badges.
• Follow infection control, universal precautions, and safety guidelines, including disposal of contrast media, sharps, and bodily fluids.
• Register patients in the RIS if clerical support is unavailable.
• Explain exams to competent patients and monitor vital signs as needed.
• Perform radiographic exams in operating rooms and pain clinics; report equipment malfunctions promptly.
• Work alternating holidays and cover staff shortages; respond to emergencies.

• Competitive salary with regular increases.
• Paid Time Off: 37–50 days of annual paid time, including 13–26 days of leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
• Parental leave: up to 12 weeks of paid leave after 12 months of employment.
• Childcare subsidy up to 25% of eligible costs for qualifying families.
• Traditional federal pension after 5 years; federal 401(k) with up to 5% match.
• Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long‑term care insurance.

Full‑time

Mid‑Senior level