Research Specialist (ECHO Technician)

Position Definition:

Under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator and Nurse Coordinator, perform transthoracic echocardiograms and assisting with transesophageal echocardiograms for the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory. This per diem, on-site, contingent upon funding position will aid in an ongoing research projects.  

Essential Functions:

• Perform per research protocol ECHO imaging
• Knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology and biology, as well as an understanding of cardiac and ultrasound physics that allows the acquisition of accurate and appropriate measurements for the computing of complex cardiac functions
• Complete per research protocol required imaging technician worksheet
• Upload per research protocol deidentified ECHO images to core lab
• Ensure patient information remains secure and confidential
• Monitors the patient’s physical condition during the procedure and report change of status or emergency situations
• Observes all research and facility safety policies and protocol for patient protection

Job Requirements:

• Graduate of an accredited program for Radiographers or Ultrasound sonographers with credentialing from: Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) or by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) as a Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS), or cardiology fellows with extensive ECHO imaging training may considered
• At least 5 years of recent (last 5 years) experience with transthoracic echocardiography and working in a hospital or other medical facility setting
• Knowledge of 3D ECHO is preferred
• Comfortable with working with Veterans and/or medically underserved/culturally diverse communities
• Must be able to do moderate lifting (15-44 pounds) light lifting/carrying (under 15 pounds), reaching above shoulder, use of fingers, both hands required, standing, both legs required, ability to distinguish basic colors/shades, hearing (aid permitted)
• Basic Cardiac Life Support (BLS) certification
• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work with minimal supervision
• Must be flexible, organized and attentive to detail, resourceful in problem solving, able to take and follow through with assigned tasks and accountability
• Full COVID-19 vaccination (including boosters) an essential requirement of this role.
• Must meet all conditions of employment as specified by San Francisco VA Health Care System
• Must have CITI Human Subjects/GCP training, or be able to complete training prior to start date

Va Onboarding Requirements:

NCIRE is an affiliate organization of the San Francisco VA Health Care System (SFVAHCS), which requires all candidates to complete SFVA onboarding in addition to NCIRE's onboarding process. The SFVA is a federal agency that requires a federal background check, occupational health clearance, vaccines and immunizations, and drug testing for certain positions. Drug testing may include screening for marijuana which remains an illegal substance according to federal law.  The failure to pass required drug testing will disqualify candidates from employment.

The base salary range for this position is $39.04 - $81.84 per hour. The base salary actually offered to a successful candidate will take into account various relevant and non-discriminatory business factors including, without limitation, the candidate’s geographic location, job-related experience, knowledge, and skills, and education, as well as internal equity considerations. A successful candidate may also be eligible to earn additional compensation including bonuses.

The Northern California Institute for Research and Education (NCIRE) is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.  NCIRE is committed to a policy that provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability, Veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected under federal and state law, and to make all employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We are committed to furthering the principle of equal employment opportunity. NCIRE actively works to attract and retain talented individuals. NCIRE offers career opportunities in research and administration in pursuit of furthering medical research for our nation’s Veterans.