Medical Instrument Technician (Cardiac Catheterization)

About the role

The Medical Instrument Technician works in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at the Seattle VA Medical Center. The technician performs invasive cardiovascular procedures utilizing highly complex and technical monitoring equipment under the direction or prescription of a qualified physician. To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement. 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. 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. Titles and Certifications/Registrations: Cardiac Catheterization Technicians perform, under a physician's direction, diagnostic tests, both invasive and noninvasive, of the pulmonary system (lung) and the cardiovascular system (heart and circulation). They operate, monitor, and collect data from instruments used in procedures such as cardiac catheterization, angiography, valvuloplasty, angioplasty, electrophysiology studies, cardiac pacing, or cardiac pacemaker or leadwire insertion. Registration is offered by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) as a Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS). 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: Medical Instrument (Cardiac Catheterization) Experience: At least 1 year of 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 cardiac catheterization technician 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. 1. 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 the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory. *2. Knowledge of JCAHO and other regulatory requirements. 3. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with employees at varying grade levels. *4. Ability to provide, or provide for, staff development and training. Preferred Experience: Registration by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) as a registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) is highly desirable. Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications are also desirable for employees at this level Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is 09. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-09 Physical Requirements: Heavy lifting, 45 pounds and over; Repeated bending; Pushing, 2 hours; Walking, 2 hours; Standing, 6 hours; Visual Acuity 20/30 (corrected permitted); Ability to distinguish basic colors; Hearing (aid may be permitted); Environmental Factors: Working with hands in water and Working closely with others The incumbent performs his/her work in a setting which regularly and recurrently involves exposure to infectious and contagious diseases, radiation risks and other risks that require special health and safety precautions such as gloves, protective clothing, and the use of radiation safety badges.