Operates and maintains a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner to obtain highest quality specialized images, which are used by physicians to diagnose the nature and extent of disease and other pathologies. The MRI technologist participates in the establishment of scan protocols and sequences in the execution of specific applications, as appropriate. Provides guidance and instruction to support staff, students, and visitors in MRI imaging procedures and safety standards. Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. 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. Certification. All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R) AND Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MR). 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 (DOE) NOTE: Assignment to the clinical program director requires meeting JRCERT minimum educational standards as noted in the assignment description. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d). 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 who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). All persons employed in VHA as a DRT on the effective date of this qualification standard are considered to have met all qualification requirements for the title, series and grade held, including positive education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the DRT occupation. For employees who do not meet all of the basic requirements in this standard, but who met the qualifications applicable to the position at the time they were appointed to it, the following provisions apply: (1) DRTs that require a certification, may be reassigned, promoted up to and including the full performance (journeyman) level, or changed to lower grade within the occupation, but may not be promoted beyond the journey level or placed in supervisory or managerial positions. (2) DRTs that require a certification only at higher grade levels must meet the certification requirement before they can be promoted to those higher grade levels. (3) DRTs who are appointed on a temporary basis prior to the effective date of the qualification standard may not have their temporary appointment extended or be reappointed, on a temporary or permanent basis, until they fully meet the basic requirements of the standard. (4) DRTs initially grandfathered into this occupation, who subsequently obtain additional education and/or certification that meet all of the basic requirements of this qualification standard must maintain the required credentials as a condition of employment in the occupation. (5) Employees who are retained as a DRT under this provision and subsequently leave the occupation lose protected status and must meet the full VA qualification standard requirements in effect at the time of reentry as a DRT. NOTE: Each uncertified VHA DRT who was permanently employed on June 21, 1986, and whose competence in the safe administration of ionizing radiation was affirmed, in writing, by a VA licensed physician not later than January 1, 1987, is considered fully qualified. These employees may be promoted, changed to lower grade, or reassigned within the GS-0647 occupational series. Any employee initially retained in this manner who leaves this job series loses protected status and must meet the full requirements in effect at the time of reentry. Preferred Experience: Minimum of two years of experience in a hospital environment. High level of computer skill for accessing, receiving, sending, and manipulating data when required Resolves patient complaints without the intervention of a Supervisor. Is self-directed and self-managed without Supervisor intervention. Grade Determination: In addition to the basic requirements, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates. GS-09 Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-8) directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level with experience in work that has been performed independently, or under minimal general supervision, and includes experience in knowledge of superconducting magnets, physics of superconducting and how they related to human anatomy in medical imaging; knowledge of safety factors governing a magnetic environment that patients, visitors, and equipment enter; have specialized knowledge of cross sectional anatomy and how it relates to the soft tissues and vessels of human body; and have specialized knowledge in the radio-frequency surface coils required for each specific anatomical area to be imaged. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs). In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs. Demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): 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. Assignment. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR). This specialty modality requires additional knowledge of superconducting magnets, the physics of superconducting magnets, and how they relate to the human anatomy in medical imaging. The technologist must be educated in the safety factors governing a magnetic environment that patients, visitors, and equipment enter. The practitioner must have specialized knowledge of cross sectional anatomy and how it relates to the soft tissues and vessels of the human body. The technologist must also have specialized knowledge in the radio-frequency surface coils required for each specific anatomical area to be imaged. This assignment may also perform basic magnetic resonance safety program duties. Technologists must be knowledgeable in contrast media, power injectors, and PACS. DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT (MR) certification. References: VA Handbook 5005/119, Part II, Appendix G25, dated December 13, 2019, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standards, GS-0647. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office. ["Prioritizes exams in a manner so as to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. Confers with radiologists/residents to determine requirements of non-standard exams. Utilizes highly sophisticated equipment such as MRI scanners, pressure injectors, patient monitors . The MRI Technologist must check all sequences acquired to assure that adequate information has been attained for proper patient diagnosis, and care. Prepares contrast materials that are used in MR. Performs venipuncture for administration of contrast material when necessary, adhering to hospital and department policies and procedures related to this task. Practices radiation safety in order to reduce exposure to patients, staff, and self. Performs reconstructions of MR studies when requested or when part of a standard procedure. MPR, MIP, and 3D reconstructions are utilized to achieve optimal information for a proper diagnosis. Explains examinations to patients including effects of contrast materials utilized so they understand the purpose and requirements associated with its use. Stocks all MR supplies and related materials. Performs irregular hour emergency scans, 24 hours per day, seven days a week, including holiday coverage. Performs and records quality assurance results performed per the Equipment Quality Control and Preventive Maintenance SOP, per manufacturer recommendations, and per supervisor guidance. Communicates pertinent information regarding equipment malfunctions, workspace concerns, schedule concerns, supply needs, etc. to the appropriate personnel (i.e. coworkers, MR Supervisor, Biomedical Engineering, etc.) in an appropriate and timely fashion. Trains new hires, students, and contractors in the safe and effective use of radiographic technique in acquiring suitable images for the radiologist. Reviews new developments in the field of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and is continuously on the alert to improve quality of exams utilizing the new technologies available. Performs routine administrative procedures for the purpose of maintaining accurate patient records. Performs routine radiographs, portable exams, fluoroscopy, and operating room imaging. Although MRI Technologists are not expected to be diagnostic experts, they are expected to be responsible for the quality of their work, and the care of their patients. Utilizes PACS for acquisition, transmission, storage, and review of images, performs QC of all completed studies to ensure timely and accurate interpretation by the radiologist. Performs Quality Control procedures, which may include (but not limited to) the following: reject/repeat image analysis, lead apron and glove radiation verification. Interviews patient to obtain pertinent medical history and precise medication usage as it pertains to the examination being performed. Ensures that adequate quantities of supplies are available to meet workload demands through a systemized process of ordering, receipt and inventory control. Assists the MR Supervisor and MR Lead in developing and maintaining monthly staffing plan under the direction of the Chief Technologist or designee. Requires specific knowledge in routine diagnostic radiography, including portable radiography, fluoroscopy, and operating room imaging. Work Schedule: Varied Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 593-00732-F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]

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