Duties

The incumbent will work in one of the following locations:

• Incumbent is trained to work in a strictly operator dependent modality (ultrasound).
• Performs computerized ultrasound images of major and minor organ systems, including but not limited to, the abdomen, thyroid, scrotum, soft tissues, uterus, ovaries, and vessels.
• Must have complete and thorough knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy and of the arterial and venous system.
• Routinely assesses patient's records for contraindications for ordered procedures. Possess the knowledge of and skills needed to access patient medical records (CPRS).
• Performs in a hospital setting all examinations ranging from routine to stat. Provides coverage of shifts and as on call basis.
• Performance of the examination requires proper alignment and positioning of the patient and proper adjustment of the ultrasound equipment to include transducer selection. Manually maneuvers the transducer to perform the examination.
• The spectrum of diagnoses and pathology evaluated includes but is not limited to, tumor, stone, cyst, abscess, hematoma, inflammatory process, hemorrhage, aneurysm and/or dissection, quantification of size and shape of organ, thrombosis, direction of flow, etc. Responsible for obtaining pertinent diagnostic examination through knowledge of both normal and abnormal human anatomy.
• Responsible for obtaining and reporting to the radiologist all pertinent history relevant to the examination. May be required to perform difficult and standardized ultrasound examinations.
• Performs a wide range of ultrasound examination including but not limited to the liver, gallbladder, hepatobiliary tree, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, adrenal glands, bladder, aorta, inferior vena cava, portal vein, hepatic artery, SMA, celiac axis, renal arteries and veins, iliac arteries and veins, scrotum and testes with vascular documentation, evaluation of liver and kidney transplants, evaluation for abnormal masses or fluid, evaluation for the functional integrity of TIPS shunt with spectral and color Doppler imaging, localization for needle biopsy, thoracentesis, paracentesis, fluid aspiration, abscess drainage, and RFA probe placement. Performs a wide range of small parts and GYN ultrasound studies including transvaginal ultrasound.
• Has a thorough knowledge of all ultrasound procedures and examinations and keeps abreast of technologist advances in the field of ultrasound and incorporates these advances into new examination procedures and/or in-service education for the technical staff.
• Properly identifies patient and patient images and exams.
• Decontaminates non-critical reusable medical supplies and equipment used in any setting where patient care is provided (excluding equipment and supplies that require specialized cleaning procedures per the manufacturer).
• Follows all polices and procedures to ensure compliance with all applicable environmental regulations & requirements.
• Possess knowledge of Joint Commission regulations and standards as they apply to ultrasound field.
• Maintains BCLS certification.
• has functional/operational knowledge of PACS.
• Assists the Radiologist in the performance of cyst punctures/drainages, aspirations biopsies and catheter placements for the purpose of diagnostic treatment using ultrasound techniques.
• Evaluates patients' anatomy pre- and post- transplantation including liver and kidney.
• Maintains ARDMS certification.
• Performs monthly QA under the guidelines of American College of Radiology accreditation standards.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

• All qualified candidates encouraged to apply. Open to U.S. Citizens but non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens.
• 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.
• You may be required to serve a probationary period.
• Subject to background/security investigation.
• Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
• Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
• Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
• Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.

How You Will Be Evaluated

• Benefits

  A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

  Review our benefits

  Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

• Required Documents

  As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.

  To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
  

  • Resume

  
  
  The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
  
  

  • Cover Letter
  • DD-214/ Statement of Service
  • Diploma/ GED
  • Disability Letter (VA)
  • License
  • Other (1)
  • Resume
  • Transcript

  
  
  VA Form 10-2850 an be found at: Find A VA Form | Veterans Affairs.
  
  Veterans' Preference Note: Preference eligible candidates and other Veterans will be given preference when qualification of candidates are approximately equal for Title 38 positions in VHA. When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.

  If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

  Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

  Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

• How to Apply

  All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 03/07/2023 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/11841347.

  • To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.

  • Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.

  
  NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
  
  To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.

  Agency contact information

  Victoria Williams

  Phone

  2026325875

  Email

  Victoria.Williams3@va.gov

  Address

  Pittsburgh VA Medical Center
  1010 Delafield Road
  Pittsburgh, PA 15215
  US

  Next steps

  Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
  
  You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
  
  NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.

• Fair and Transparent

  The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

  • Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
  • Reasonable accommodation policy
  • Financial suitability
  • Selective Service
  • New employee probationary period
  • Signature and false statements
  • Privacy Act
  • Social security number request

Required Documents

Clarification from the agency

All qualified candidates encouraged to apply. Open to U.S. Citizens but non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens.