Qualifications

Basic Requirements:

• United States Citizenship: Citizenship of the United States
• (Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3g, this part
• English Language Proficiency: Medical Instrument Technicians must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with chapter 2, section D, paragraph 5a, this part
• Education: There are no specific educational requirements for this occupation
• Licensure or Certification: Licensure or Certification is not required for this occupation
• however, it is strongly desirable at GS-6 or above as evidence of possession of the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities
• 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: In addition to the basic requirements, VA HR staff must use the following criteria to determine the appropriate grade assignment of candidates
• Medical Instrument Technician (Echocardiography) GS-9 Experience
• At least 1 year experience comparable to the next lower grade level, which is directly related to the duties of the position to be filled, and must fully meet the KSAs at that level
• This would be experience which demonstrates possession of the knowledge required in order to provide all aspects of echocardiography services
• In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs and the potential to acquire the assignment specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• KSAs 1, 2, and 3 are appropriate for all positions at this level
• KSAs 4 and 5 are to be used in accordance with their appropriateness for the specific assignment
• Knowledge of the more complex examination and treatment procedures and techniques in order to provide training and supervision in these procedures, to evaluate and initiate performance improvement projects, and to write policies, procedures, and protocols, that pertain to Echocardiography
• *Knowledge of JCAHO and other regulatory requirements
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with employees at varying grade levels
• *Ability to manage and supervise employees
• *Ability to provide, or provide for, staff development and training
• Certification
• Licensure or Certification is not required for this occupation
• however, Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications are desirable
• Preferred Experience: Preferred candidate will possess comprehensive echocardiography experience, including proficiency in performing advance cardiac ultrasound procedures such as 2D and 3D echo, color flow imaging, doppler, strain imaging, bubble studies, contrast and stress echocardiography
• Candidate should demonstrate strong technical knowledge of cardiovascular diagnostics and workflow, with experience obtaining high-quality diagnostic images while ensuring patient safety and comfort
• Additional preferred experience includes EKG acquisition, halter monitor application and analysis, ambulatory cardiac monitoring, and cardiac stress testing procedures
• Ability to function independently in a clinical setting while collaborating with cardiology providers and multidisciplinary teams is highly desirable
• 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
• Physical Requirements: Physical aspects associated with work required of this assignment are typical for the occupation, see Duties section for essential job duties of the position
• May require standing, lifting, carrying, sitting, stooping, bending, puling, and pushing
• May be required to wear personal protective equipment and undergo annual TB screening or testing as conditions of employment
• Work Environment: Work is performed in an office/clinic setting with minimal risks that requires normal safety precautions
• the area is adequately lighted, heated, and ventilated
• However, the work environment requires someone with the ability to handle several tasks at once in sometimes stressful situations.