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The Diagnostic Ultrasound Sonographer performs ultrasound exams ranging from the routine to highly specialized. These procedures require ingenuity and initiative in the application of non-ionizing high frequency ultrasonic waves for imaging and diagnosis of disease and operates independently without direct supervision. 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. Completed a full-time training course of at least 24 months (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic Radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associates degree, accredited by the Join Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). All applicants must be certified in general Radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology(ARRT) (R) and posses Advanced ARRT certification is required for Ultrasonography. Proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with chapter 2, section D, paragraph 5a, this part. Grade Determinations: GS-9 Experience: At least 1 year of experience to the next lower grade level directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level Advanced DRT. Employees at this level are fully functional as an advanced DRT and are able to carry out the assigned tasks independently. DRTs at this level may have varying assignments including special and complex radiographic procedures. Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment, the work must be sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform at this level. The candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific. KSAs designated by an asterisk(*): *a. Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures; b. Skill to demonstrate appropriate techniques to gather relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers; *c. Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure; d. Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography; e. Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions; and f. Knowledge pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. Preferred Experience: Preferred recent experience within the last two years performing higher level CT procedures. References: VA Handbook 5005/77, Part II, Appendix G25, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard , dated June 26, 2014. This can be found in the local Human Resources Office. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is at the GS-9 level. Physical Requirements: Position requires long periods of standing and walking (up to 5 hours), repeated bending (5 hours), lifting and carrying of moderately heavy items such as cassettes for fast film changes (15-44 pounds), pushing (1 hour). Requires considerable effort and working in awkward positions. Ability to reach above shoulder required. Both hands required and use of fingers required. Must be able to lift, carry and move heavy equipment/patients routinely. Near vision correctable at 13-16" to Jaeger 1 to 4 and far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20 and to 20/40 in the other. ["Works directly with patients and Physicians and operates equipment that uses high- frequency soundwaves to take images and scans of the body's internal organs. Operates diagnostic ultrasound equipment both in the department and in the portable setting. DRT (25%): Operates independently and without direct supervision as the technologist responsible for the performance and coordination of all diagnostic radiology and Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) exams. These exams are performed with and without the use of contrast materials. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies so that proper diagnosis and treatment will be delivered. Diagnostic Ultrasound (Sonography) (US) (75%): Incumbent operates independently and without direct supervision. Performs ultrasound exams ranging from the routine to highly specialized. These procedures require ingenuity and initiative in the application of non-ionizing high frequency ultrasonic waves for imaging and diagnosis of disease. The Sonographer independently performs a wide range of routine and complex exams and limited vascular (DVT, carotid, AAA); recognizing the need to make modifications during the examination. Coordinates a variety of technical procedures that require independent judgment, ingenuity, and initiative in the application of non-ionizing high frequency ultrasonic waves to humans for diagnosis of disease. Knows and understands the principles of ultrasound and the highly specialized equipment well enough to essentially approve the acceptability or reject ability of each scan. Perform other duties as assigned Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:am to 4:30pm, hours may change based on agency needs.\nTelework: Not Authorized\nVirtual: This is not a virtual position.\nRelocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized\nPermanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized\nFinancial Disclosure Report: Not required"]