Federal

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI)

Veterans Health Administration ยท Department of Veterans Affairs
๐Ÿ“ San Diego, California GS-9 $102,818 - $133,671/yr
Posted: Feb 11, 2026 Deadline: May 15, 2026 (Closes in 89 days days left)

About This Position

This position is located at Diagnostic Imaging Service with VA San Diego Healthcare System. The incumbent will perform as a fully functional diagnostic radiologic technologist in the specialization of MRI. The incumbent will support radiologists or other medical professionals to produce imaging studies used to diagnose medical conditions.

Qualifications

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 (ARRT) (R). Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Education: Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in the 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 of 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). Grade Determinations: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI) GS-09: 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. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*). *Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. *Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. *Knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. *Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. *Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. Preferred Experience: 3 or more years of dedicated MRI experience in an acute care facility; OR 2 or more years of radiologic experience beyond the basic requirements listed above. Reference: VA Handbook 5005/119, Part II, Appendix G25, Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Qualification Standard. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-9. Physical Requirements: Moderate lifting, moderate carrying, reaching above shoulders, use of fingers and hands required, walking, standing, and repeated bending.

Major Duties

This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT and will remain open until May 15, 2026 . The initial cut-off date for referral of eligible applications will be March 1, 2026, with subsequent cut-off dates on the 1st of each month. 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. Major duties include, but are not limited to: Incumbent will be required to perform all aspects of MRI. Monitor patient during all phases of the examination, removing the patient from the influence of the magnetic field upon completion of the data acquisition. Coordinate with the radiologist to determine the most ideal pulse sequences and other parameters necessary to accomplish a highly quality examination. Program all technical factors by integrating computer console and choose the most effective coil for producing the correct signal. Record all computer and scanning data on film and/or optical disc. Maintains all monitoring data pertinent to patient and equipment information and usage. Performs and maintaining a monitoring system for quality assurance purposes and complies with FDA Safety Standards regarding ferrous objects and cardiac pacemakers prior to these persons entering the environment of the 5 gauss magnetic field. Assist manufacturer representative and biomedical engineers in the calibration and troubleshooting of malfunctions and all equipment associated with the MRI unit. Schedule, register, and status track all exams utilizing VISTA (Radiology Package). Maintain CPR certification. Ensure that all images are sent to VISTA/RAD upon completion of examination. Reports all equipment problems to Supervisory Diagnostic Technologist or Chief Technologist. Proactively identifies administrative, clinical or mechanical problems and defines solutions thereof. Treats patients and visitors with courtesy and respect. Performs assigned duties with no supervision during irregular hours to ensure adequate patient examinations. Advises the Radiologist of examinations which require immediate attention while the patient is still undergoing the examination. Responsible for setting up and positioning patients, provides immobilization devices, selects proper technical factors on an individual patient basis, and operates the equipment. Monitors the examination by checking computations, performances and results of the selected parameters to obtain the best diagnostic computer data and images. Performs clinical analysis of data recorded by the computer and records the computer data on film, magnetic tape and printer plotter paper. Performs technical operation and general technical maintenance of the computer, disk drives, console, imaging devices, etc. Uses computer programs with competence, and establishes and monitors quality control programs. Coordinates daily schedule and consults with hospital physicians, clinical and administrative personnel pertaining to the next day and future day's availability for patient examinations. Assists in preparation of manuals, and assists in devising modifying procedures as necessary. Work Schedule: Various times (Holidays and on-call as needed for patient care needs) Telework: Not Authorized Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Recruitment/Relocation Incentives: Authorized for a highly qualified applicant relocating to the San Diego, CA commuting area. Financial Disclosure Report: Not Authorized

Conditions of Employment

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. 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). As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period 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 probationary period or trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Education

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/.

How You Will Be Evaluated

IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position. It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment. Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.

Additional Information

Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed. During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions. This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies. This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status. VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority. If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement. Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.

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 05/15/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12881031. 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.

Required Documents

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes: Professional Certification Resume Transcript Special Note for Applications: To complete your application, please use the following link https://vacareers.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/Resume.docx to download the standard Clinical Resume Document. This one-page document does not need to be modified and must be uploaded into the two-page restricted 'Resume' document upload field. Your full resume/CV may be uploaded without page limitation into the 'Other' document upload field. The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please 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 Other (1) Professional Certification Resume SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action Transcript Veterans' Preference: 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. Veterans' preference does not apply for internal or other current permanent Federal agency employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for the Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI) position at Veterans Health Administration?
The salary range for this position is $102,818 - $133,671/yr. This is a GS-9 position on the General Schedule pay scale. Actual pay may vary based on locality adjustments.
Where is the Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI) job located?
This position is located in San Diego, California. This is an on-site position.
What qualifications do I need?
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 (ARRT) (R). Advanced ARRT certification is require...
How do I apply for this position?
Apply through USAJobs.gov by clicking the 'Apply on USAJobs' button. You'll need a USAJobs account, a federal-style resume, and supporting documents. The deadline is May 15, 2026.
Is a security clearance required?
No security clearance is required for this position.
What does GS-9 mean?
GS-9 refers to the General Schedule grade level. Higher grades require more experience and offer higher pay. Visit our GS Pay Scale page for full salary tables by grade and locality.
What benefits do federal employees receive?
Federal employees receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (FEHB), retirement through FERS, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching, paid annual and sick leave, paid parental leave, life insurance, and student loan repayment programs.