Lead PET/CT Technologist - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive Authorized

The Primary Purpose of the Position is:To function independently as a senior-level practitioner above the full performance level of a Nuclear Medicine Technologist (NMT), as a member of a multi-level organization that includes advanced molecular imaging.

This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT and will remain open until August 3, 2026. The initial cut-off date for referral of eligible applications will be February 16, 2026, with subsequent cut-off dates every two weeks. Eligible applications received after that date will be referred at regular intervals or as additional vacancies occur on an as-needed basis until positions are filled.

The NMT (PET/CT) operates Positron Emission Tomography/Computerized Tomography (PET/CT) equipment to produce cross sectional and multidimensional rendered images depicting physiology and anatomy in separate and combined fusion data sets for both inpatient and outpatient indications. S/he performs associated quality control and troubleshooting of Positron and CT Imaging high cost, high technical medical equipment, as well as safe handling of positron emitting radioactive isotopes, following rules and regulations established by the NRC, NHPP, FDA, DOT, VA governing board(s) and accrediting agencies, as well as patient safety standards set forth by The Joint Commission (TJC).

In addition to independent performance of standard NMT function, the NMT (PET/CT) will perform the following duties greater than 25% of the time. Must be proficient in venipuncture techniques using a variety of equipment, such as butterfly setups, syringes with needles and IV catheters, in the setting of high radiation exposure PET radiopharmaceuticals and utilizing appropriate shielding and monitoring methods. The candidate will work collaboratively with staff Nuclear Medicine Physicians, physician extenders, and the Chief Technologist to optimize patient care and PET image quality.

Verify the constancy, accuracy, and linearity of survey meters and dose calibrators, or have them serviced to ensure a safe environment following radiation protection guidelines in accordance with ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) principles. The individual will calibrate, standardize, and regularly adjust the PET/CT camera, and related equipment necessary in operations, for appropriate energy photopeaks of the different isotopes used. They must recognize acceptable daily blank scans and be able to perform daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly QC as required by the manufacturer for both the CT and PET scanner components, as well as procedure specific quality assurance, such as PET radiotracer generator QC.

Must be able to utilize the computerized tomography portion of the scanner to produce cross sectional images of various organ systems, as well as perform whole body imaging associated with oncologic PET. Must have a working knowledge of cross sectional anatomy, as well as cardiac and neuroanatomy, and have experience administering IV and oral contrast material in addition to various routes of automated and manual radiotracer infusion.

Must be able to effectively operate a computer, including advanced computer systems. The incumbent will be able to adjust scan type, slice thickness with consideration for 3D imaging, scan/bed time, and other technical aspects, as necessary.

Must be attentive to the needs of the patient and be able to communicate and anticipate possible limitations in view of the capabilities of the imaging equipment. Workflow management experience is a must to be able to optimize efficiencies of the scanner and resources of the PET facility including the control room, hot lab, and injection rooms.

Must provide appropriate care while the patient is in their charge while simultaneously assessing for causes of potential artifact. This includes checking the patient for evidence of contamination or attenuating objects.

Must have a level of competence such that they can perform more advanced PET/CT imaging studies such as F18-NaF bone scans, Cardiac PET stress testing and viability imaging, PET infectious imaging, PET/CT Brain Amyloid Dementia Studies, etc. on both an inpatient and outpatient basis, while supervising and teaching rotating general nuclear medicine technologists. Serve as an instructor in advanced Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging to NMT students.

In the context of high radiation emitting positron radiotracers, must receive, record, and store incoming radioactive materials according to NRC/NHPP guidelines, and when applicable DOT regulations.

Must effectively operate clinical computer applications - Use Omnicell and Nuclear Medicine Information System (NMIS) to execute general and PET radio-pharmacy functions, as needed. Uses the Veterans Health Information and Technology Architecture (VistA) and the Computerized Patient Records System (CPRS) to access and input information in the Medical Computer System.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm, 7:30am - 4:00pm, 8:00am - 4:30pm
Telework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 54894-F
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: May be available for a highly qualified candidate
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

Basic Requirements:

• United States Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job
• English Language Proficiency: [NMTs] must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with chapter 2, section D, paragraph 5a, of this part.
• Certification: All applicants must be certified in nuclear medicine technology by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (N). NMTCB or ARRT (N) certification eligibility requirements are normally satisfied by one of the following:
• (1) Completion of a NMTCB-recognized nuclear medicine technology program, OR
• (2) Completion of a nuclear medicine technology program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT), or other accrediting agencies as recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE), culminating in a certificate, associate, baccalaureate, or master's degree. Educational programs must have structured clinical training sufficient to provide clinical competency in radiation safety, instrumentation, clinical procedures, and radio-pharmacy, as deemed acceptable by the NMTCB. (Transcripts required).

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).

Grade Determinations: GS-11 Lead

Experience: For assignments above the journey level, the candidate must have 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level directly related to the position being filled, and must fully meet the KSAs at that level. Experience includes but is no limited to: NMTs at this level are fully functional as an advanced NMT and carry out their assigned tasks independently. NMTs at this level serve in advanced assignments and will have varying assignments, including special and complex imaging procedures, advanced therapies, clinical instruction, and quality management duties within the program. The candidate functions as a lead technologist for a group of NMTs at and below the journey level (GS-9) and other unit staff. The lead technologist is responsible for assignment of work to ensure effective unit operation and maximizing use of unit resources. Has a broad knowledge of the different modalities within the diagnostic radiologic area, and is accountable to the next higher-level supervisor.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): In addition to the experience listed above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs:

1. Ability to motivate and mentor staff.
2. Ability to respond to decrease staffing levels or increase in workload involving all parties that restructure work assignments.
3. Ability to communicate effectively with supervisor and staff.

Preferred Experience:

1. PET certified through the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board within 6 months of hire. PE
2. Computed Tomography (CT) Certification through the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board or The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists within 1 year of hire PE
3. American Heart Association Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (AHA ACLS) certified.
4. Past experience in Cardiac CTA is desirable, but not a requirement for the position.
5. IV competency
6. Experience in inpatient/acute care setting is preferred.
7. A minimum of 3 years of experience practicing Nuclear Medicine Technology

Assignments. For all assignments above the journey level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. NMTs at this level are fully functional as an advanced NMT and carry out their assigned tasks independently. The candidate functions as a lead technologist for a group of NMTs at and below the journey level (GS-9) and other unit staff. The lead technologist is responsible for assignment of work to ensure effective unit operation and maximizing use of unit resources. This position provides a full range of nuclear medicine procedures, has a broad knowledge of the different modalities within the diagnostic radiologic area, and is accountable to the next higher-level supervisor.

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-11.

Physical Requirements: The work is sedentary. Some work may require movement between offices, hospitals, warehouses, and similar areas for meetings and to conduct work. Work may also require walking/standing, in conjunctions with travel to and attendance at meetings and/or conferences away from the work site. Incumbent may carry and lift light items weighing less than 15 pounds.

IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.

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/.

Completion of a nuclear medicine technology program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT), or other accrediting agencies as recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE), culminating in a certificate, associate, baccalaureate, or master's degree. Educational programs must have structured clinical training sufficient to provide clinical competency in radiation safety, instrumentation, clinical procedures, and radio-pharmacy, as deemed acceptable by the NMTCB.

NOTE: If your school has changed names, or is no longer in existence, you must provide this information in your application.

• 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 dentification 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.