Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MR)
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Houston, TX, United States
Summary
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. Employees at this level are considered fully functional and able to carry out their assigned tasks independently and perform technical work in support of Diagnostic Radiology under the direct supervision of a physician.
Qualifications
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.
United States citizenship is required; non‑citizens may be appointed only when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with VA Handbook 5005 – Part II – chapter 3 – section A – paragraph 3g.
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 the technologist can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and passed the designated examination.
For modalities that require advanced certification, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may receive on‑the‑job training under the oversight of a certified radiologic technologist.
Education requirement: completion of a full‑time training course of at least 24 months in a post‑high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or associate degree accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or a recognized accrediting agency.
Grandfathering provision: all persons currently 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 education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the DRT occupation.
English language proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. § 7402(d) and § 7407(d).
Medical knowledge: the technologist must understand superconducting magnet physics, MRI safety factors, cross‑sectional anatomy, radio‑frequency surface coils, contrast media, power injectors, and PACS.
Advanced ARRT (MR) certification is required for independent duties in the MRI subspecialty.
Grade determination: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist – GS‑9 experience, with at least one year of equivalent experience directly related to the position, demonstrating the clinical competencies described at that level.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs and have the potential to acquire assignment‑specific KSAs designated by asterisk (*):
Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while performing complex scans and procedures.
Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from medical records, significant others, and healthcare providers.
Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure.
Knowledge of basic first aid, basic life support practices related to radiography.
Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and universal precautions.
Knowledge of pre‑procedural, procedural and post‑procedural care of patients.
Preferred experience: certified as an MRI technologist, with a minimum of one year as an MRI technologist.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard – please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS‑09, with the actual grade potentially at GS‑09.
Physical requirements: typical for the occupation; may include standing, lifting, carrying, sitting, stooping, bending, pulling and pushing; may require wearing personal protective equipment and annual TB screening.
Work environment: office/clinic setting with normal safety precautions and adequate lighting, heating and ventilation.
Duties
Operate MRI equipment to capture high‑quality diagnostic images in accordance with radiologists' protocols and physicians' specifications.
Verify patient identification and review medical history relevant to the MRI procedure.
Screen patients for contraindications such as metal implants or pacemakers.
Explain the MRI procedure clearly and address concerns to ensure patient understanding and comfort.
Deliver patient care tailored to the cognitive, emotional and developmental needs of adult and geriatric patients.
Perform various MRI exams on head, neck, spine, chest, abdomen, pelvis and extremities with and without contrast.
Perform magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) exams of veins and arteries throughout the body.
Prepare, position and immobilize patients accurately and comfortably in the MRI scanner using cushions, straps or supports.
Review all radiology requests for accuracy, appropriateness and desired date; investigate questionable details and consult with the radiologist as necessary.
Document all relevant information in VistA and/or the patient's electronic health record.
Maintain technical proficiency with scanners and associated protocols.
Optimize scan times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases.
Insert intravenous lines for contrast administration using aseptic technique, ensuring proper vein selection and secure placement.
Maintain venipuncture competency.
Participate in quality control and assurance programs to maintain optimal imaging procedures.
Perform routine checks and basic troubleshooting on MRI equipment.
Report and document incidents, equipment malfunctions or safety concerns promptly.
Maintain an organized and well‑stocked MRI suite, including medical supplies, contrast agents, IV kits, syringes, PPE, linens and disinfectants.
Work independently, organizing and completing assignments safely and timely.
Aid team members as needed.
Assist radiologists, other technologists, students from affiliated institutions and other healthcare professionals; MEDVAMC is a teaching institute.
Use computer proficiency for effective use of technology in managing patient information, documentation and communication.
Work hours Monday‑Friday, 12:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., subject to change based on facility needs.
Recruitment incentive: none.
Relocation assistance: none.
Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases; higher step rate may be determined after consideration of higher qualifications or special needs.
Paid time off: 37‑50 days of annual paid time per year (13‑26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid federal holidays).
Parental leave: up to 12 weeks of paid leave after 12 months of employment for birth, adoption or foster care placement.
Child care subsidy: after 60 days of employment, full‑time employees with family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of eligible costs.
Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% VA contributions; other federal insurance programs available.
Telework: not available.
Virtual: this is not a virtual position.
Functional statement #: 580‑00184‑F.
Permanent change of station (PCS): not authorized.
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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. Employees at this level are considered fully functional and able to carry out their assigned tasks independently and perform technical work in support of Diagnostic Radiology under the direct supervision of a physician.
Qualifications
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.
United States citizenship is required; non‑citizens may be appointed only when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with VA Handbook 5005 – Part II – chapter 3 – section A – paragraph 3g.
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 the technologist can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and passed the designated examination.
For modalities that require advanced certification, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may receive on‑the‑job training under the oversight of a certified radiologic technologist.
Education requirement: completion of a full‑time training course of at least 24 months in a post‑high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or associate degree accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or a recognized accrediting agency.
Grandfathering provision: all persons currently 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 education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the DRT occupation.
English language proficiency: DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. § 7402(d) and § 7407(d).
Medical knowledge: the technologist must understand superconducting magnet physics, MRI safety factors, cross‑sectional anatomy, radio‑frequency surface coils, contrast media, power injectors, and PACS.
Advanced ARRT (MR) certification is required for independent duties in the MRI subspecialty.
Grade determination: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist – GS‑9 experience, with at least one year of equivalent experience directly related to the position, demonstrating the clinical competencies described at that level.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs and have the potential to acquire assignment‑specific KSAs designated by asterisk (*):
Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while performing complex scans and procedures.
Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from medical records, significant others, and healthcare providers.
Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure.
Knowledge of basic first aid, basic life support practices related to radiography.
Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and universal precautions.
Knowledge of pre‑procedural, procedural and post‑procedural care of patients.
Preferred experience: certified as an MRI technologist, with a minimum of one year as an MRI technologist.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard – please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS‑09, with the actual grade potentially at GS‑09.
Physical requirements: typical for the occupation; may include standing, lifting, carrying, sitting, stooping, bending, pulling and pushing; may require wearing personal protective equipment and annual TB screening.
Work environment: office/clinic setting with normal safety precautions and adequate lighting, heating and ventilation.
Duties
Operate MRI equipment to capture high‑quality diagnostic images in accordance with radiologists' protocols and physicians' specifications.
Verify patient identification and review medical history relevant to the MRI procedure.
Screen patients for contraindications such as metal implants or pacemakers.
Explain the MRI procedure clearly and address concerns to ensure patient understanding and comfort.
Deliver patient care tailored to the cognitive, emotional and developmental needs of adult and geriatric patients.
Perform various MRI exams on head, neck, spine, chest, abdomen, pelvis and extremities with and without contrast.
Perform magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) exams of veins and arteries throughout the body.
Prepare, position and immobilize patients accurately and comfortably in the MRI scanner using cushions, straps or supports.
Review all radiology requests for accuracy, appropriateness and desired date; investigate questionable details and consult with the radiologist as necessary.
Document all relevant information in VistA and/or the patient's electronic health record.
Maintain technical proficiency with scanners and associated protocols.
Optimize scan times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases.
Insert intravenous lines for contrast administration using aseptic technique, ensuring proper vein selection and secure placement.
Maintain venipuncture competency.
Participate in quality control and assurance programs to maintain optimal imaging procedures.
Perform routine checks and basic troubleshooting on MRI equipment.
Report and document incidents, equipment malfunctions or safety concerns promptly.
Maintain an organized and well‑stocked MRI suite, including medical supplies, contrast agents, IV kits, syringes, PPE, linens and disinfectants.
Work independently, organizing and completing assignments safely and timely.
Aid team members as needed.
Assist radiologists, other technologists, students from affiliated institutions and other healthcare professionals; MEDVAMC is a teaching institute.
Use computer proficiency for effective use of technology in managing patient information, documentation and communication.
Work hours Monday‑Friday, 12:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., subject to change based on facility needs.
Recruitment incentive: none.
Relocation assistance: none.
Pay: Competitive salary and regular salary increases; higher step rate may be determined after consideration of higher qualifications or special needs.
Paid time off: 37‑50 days of annual paid time per year (13‑26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, 11 paid federal holidays).
Parental leave: up to 12 weeks of paid leave after 12 months of employment for birth, adoption or foster care placement.
Child care subsidy: after 60 days of employment, full‑time employees with family income below $144,000 may be eligible for a childcare subsidy up to 25% of eligible costs.
Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% VA contributions; other federal insurance programs available.
Telework: not available.
Virtual: this is not a virtual position.
Functional statement #: 580‑00184‑F.
Permanent change of station (PCS): not authorized.
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