Picture Archive Communication System (PACS) Technologist

****Duties Continued**** Designs and maintains a quality control program for digital radiographic images to include, but not necessarily be restricted to, evaluation of image quality from modality to viewing monitor. Reports all QA activities and the findings of such activities to the Chief of Staff as well as the Radiology Chief. This program will meet the intent of the American College of Radiology and Joint Commission standards. Develops methods for the collection and retrieval of computer information from established systems to enhance analysis of program related data. Follows all safety/fire prevention rules and regulations, using protective equipment when required or provided. Assists in assessment and procurement of new imaging equipment as well as system upgrades. Identifies problems, gathers data, performs analyses, and proposes solutions to problems and barriers to establishment of an efficient, cost-effective film-less imaging environment. Provides analysis of user needs and recommends appropriate hardware and software solutions. Schedules, monitors, and reviews all outside vendor services, to ensure appropriate, quality workmanship in a timely fashion. Acts as the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) for assigned contracts relating to Imaging Services and digital imaging. Must be able to distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate techniques and methods employed by outside Field Service Technicians (or engineers) and resolves any conflicts that may arise. Works in conjunction with manufacturer's representatives to perform complex repairs as needed. Coordinates with vendors in providing PM, repair, and/or parts for assigned equipment covered under a service contract. Maintains communication with vendors, Vista Radiology developers and other sources to ensure that working technical knowledge is always current. Keeps abreast of image-related computer software developments and applications packages throughout the VA and the community as well as current developments in operating systems, imaging systems, database management systems, and equipment related to hardware used by Vista Radiology, Vista Imaging, commercial PACS, and voice recognition systems. Fully supports PACS workflow to ensure the efficient storage, display and manipulation of DICOM images within the enterprise PACS 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). 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). English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(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). Grade Determinations: Picture Archive Communication System (PACS) Technologist GS-10 Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level directly related to the position being filled that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Picture Archive Communication System (PACS) Technologist. The PACS technologist provides support and troubleshoots system application issues and instructs users in the proper operation of digital image processing, storage, and display systems. The technologist performs VistA radiology, VistA imaging, and PACS support activities and general ADPAC duties including user access control. The technologist coordinates contingency plans during equipment downtimes and initiates repair requests with appropriate services or vendors. The technologist provides oversight of hardware relating to PACS display workstations, applications, speech recognition hardware, and other medical imaging hardware. The technologist provides training to radiologists, technologists, and other clients in the proper and efficient use of imaging hardware and software of the integrated PACS and VistA imaging systems. The technologist provides instruction and guidance in daily operations of the ancillary systems such as: speech recognition dictation, dose reporting systems, contrast reporting systems, etc. The incumbent may function as a DRT which may include complex modalities such as CT, MR, mammography, ultrasound, and/or IR. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA's). i. Ability to provide support and troubleshoot system application and hardware issues and instruct users in the proper operation of digital image processing, storage and display systems. ii. Ability to perform VistA radiology, VistA imaging, and PACS support activities and general ADPAC duties including user access control. iii. Ability to initiate repair requests with appropriate services or vendors. iv. Knowledge of PACS system infrastructure and functionality. v. Ability to provide training to all user levels in the efficient use of imaging hardware and software of the integrated PACS system. vi. Knowledge of specific positioning, technique, and imaging procedures so he/she will be able to perform and reconcile image information correctly and efficiently during technical post processing and evaluation. Preferred Experience: Proficient in computer software (PACS) Experience working as a Picture Archive Communication System (PACS) Technologist Experience coordinating with OI&T and Biomedical Engineering on PACS workflows and system issues Experience supporting imaging across multiple modalities (R, CT, MRI, US, BD, Vascular) 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-10. he actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-10. Physical Requirements: Physical aspects associated with work required of this assignment are typical for the occupation and would generally not require a pre-placement examination. The technologist serves as a liaison for the Office of Information and Technology (OI&T), Biomedical Engineering staff and clinical users to ensure the PACS system is configured to optimize imaging including distribution capabilities; develops methods and programs to evaluate, monitor and maintain digital imaging and voice recognition systems; developing, and instructing users in the operation of PACS network elements, and the integration of these with related systems.