100%25 Imaging Technologist - Adult Cardiac Cath Lab - UI Heart and Vascular Center

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: 100% Imaging Technologist - Adult Cardiac Cath Lab

Company: University of Iowa

Location: Iowa City, Iowa, United States

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Healthcare Operations / Medical Imaging

Date Posted: 2026-06-04

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Operates and manages specialized digital angiography imaging equipment within the Adult Cardiac Catheterization Lab, requiring advanced technical proficiency and independent decision-making.

• Provides direct, safe patient care during complex diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac catheterization procedures, integrating vital sign monitoring and life support knowledge.

• Executes image processing, including 3-D reconstruction and reprocessing, and performs non-imaging functions like spectroscopy, crucial for accurate diagnosis and research.

• Collaborates closely with physicians, interdisciplinary teams, and other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient outcomes and operational efficiency within the UI Heart and Vascular Center.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is highly specialized within the medical imaging field, focusing on cardiac catheterization procedures. It demands a blend of technical imaging skills, direct patient care under pressure, and a strong understanding of cardiac procedures and associated technologies. The "100% Imaging Technologist" designation signifies a dedicated, full-time role focused solely on imaging functions within this specific department.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Perform specialized digital angiography imaging, independently operating and controlling complex imaging equipment with minimal physician supervision.

• Provide direct, safe patient care throughout diagnostic and therapeutic adult cardiac catheterization procedures, including utilizing proper aseptic techniques, skin preparation, and IV placement.

• Monitor and record vital signs, applying knowledge of basic and advanced life support principles to manage patient status during procedures.

• Execute image processing tasks such as 3-D reconstruction and image reprocessing, as well as non-imaging functions like spectroscopy.

• Prepare and administer contrast materials to patients under radiologist supervision as required by procedure protocols.

• Maintain comprehensive records of examinations and archive associated computer data accurately.

• Establish effective rapport with patients, providing clear explanations of the examination process and patient requirements.

• Plan daily scheduling, including regular and STAT procedures, to maximize room utilization and departmental efficiency.

• Manage inventory, order necessary supplies, and maintain quality assurance standards for imaging equipment and procedures.

• Instruct and mentor trainees, students, and other medical staff on imaging equipment operation and safety protocols.

• Participate in research activities, including phantom and/or animal studies, as needed to advance medical knowledge and techniques.

• Stay current with advancements in specialty imaging and related fields through continuous education, professional development, and review of publications.

• Foster and maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and the public.

• Demonstrate professional behavior, pride in work, and flexibility in assignments, consistently upholding professional standards.

• Fulfill required on-call duties for night, weekend, and holiday assignments, ensuring prompt arrival at UI Health Care within the specified timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed emphasize a high degree of autonomy and technical expertise. The technologist is expected to not only operate equipment but also manage patient care, data, and departmental workflow. The on-call requirement highlights the critical nature of the role and the need for rapid response, which is standard for interventional cardiology services.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Successful completion of a two-year or other approved program by the Joint Commission Committee in Radiologic Technology Education is required. Experience:

• Previous imaging technologist experience, with a strong preference for experience in Adult Cardiac Catheterization procedures.

• Alternatively, completion of a Cardiac and Vascular Interventional Clinical Internship within the last 12 months is acceptable.

• Demonstrated history of positive and professional interactions with patients, families, professional healthcare staff, and interdisciplinary team members, evidenced through various communication methods.

• Proven ability to effectively utilize critical thinking skills, exercise decisive judgment, work with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment, and function effectively within a multi-disciplinary team.

• Required participation in night/weekend/holiday on-call assignments, with the ability to arrive at UI Health Care within 20-30 minutes. Required Certifications/Licensure:

• Certification in diagnostic procedures by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) required prior to the start date.

• Permit to practice by the State of Iowa for all technologists operating ionizing radiation emitting equipment is required prior to the start date.

• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certifications are required prior to the start date. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Digital Angiography and operating complex imaging equipment.

• Strong Patient Monitoring and assessment skills, including vital signs.

• Expertise in Aseptic Techniques and IV Placement.

• Solid understanding of Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ACLS) principles.

• Ability to perform 3-D Reconstruction and Image Reprocessing.

• Familiarity with Spectroscopic analysis and its application in imaging.

• Competency in preparing and administering contrast materials under supervision.

• Excellent Critical Thinking and problem-solving abilities.

• Effective Patient Care and communication skills. Preferred Skills:

• 3 years of imaging technologist experience specifically in Adult Cardiac Catheterization.

• Previous experience utilizing the EPIC electronic health record system.

• Experience with Cardiac and Vascular Interventional Clinical Internship.

📝 Enhancement Note: The educational and certification requirements are standard for advanced imaging technologists. The emphasis on prior cardiac cath lab experience or a specific internship highlights the need for specialized, hands-on knowledge in this high-acuity environment. The inclusion of EPIC experience points to the importance of EHR proficiency in integrated healthcare systems.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies in Cardiac Imaging: Showcase detailed case studies of complex adult cardiac catheterization procedures you have managed, including imaging acquisition, manipulation, and analysis. Highlight your specific role and contributions.

• Process Optimization Examples: Provide examples of how you have contributed to improving imaging workflow efficiency, quality assurance, or patient safety within a cath lab setting. Quantify improvements where possible (e.g., reduced procedure time, improved image quality metrics).

• System Operation Protocols: Document your understanding of operating complex imaging systems, including quality assurance protocols, troubleshooting common issues, and adhering to safety guidelines.

• Data Management & Reporting: Demonstrate your ability to maintain accurate patient records, archive data, and potentially generate reports on imaging procedures or system performance.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Illustrate your understanding of cath lab workflow, from patient preparation and imaging acquisition to post-procedure data management. Detail any contributions to optimizing these workflows for efficiency and patient safety.

• Implementation of Imaging Techniques: Show examples of how you have implemented or adapted imaging techniques, including contrast administration and 3-D reconstruction, adhering to established protocols and physician directives.

• Performance Analysis & Quality Assurance: Document your approach to quality assurance for imaging equipment and procedures, including how you monitor system performance and identify areas for improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an Imaging Technologist role, particularly in a specialized area like a Cardiac Cath Lab, a portfolio should focus on demonstrable technical skills, patient care contributions, and an understanding of procedural efficiency and quality. Case studies are crucial for illustrating practical application of knowledge and problem-solving capabilities in a clinical setting.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry standards for experienced Imaging Technologists in specialized cardiac roles within academic medical centers in Iowa, a salary range of $60,000 - $85,000 annually is estimated. This range can vary based on exact years of experience, specific certifications, and qualifications presented.

Benefits:

• Sign-on Incentive: A $10,000 sign-on incentive is offered to eligible candidates (current UI employees are not eligible). This is a significant financial benefit aimed at attracting external talent.

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans designed to cover healthcare needs.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Opportunities for retirement savings, likely through a 403(b) or similar plan, with potential employer matching contributions.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrual of vacation, sick leave, and holidays, providing flexibility for rest and personal needs.

• Continuing Education Support: Potential for reimbursement or paid time off for continuing education programs, conferences, and certifications necessary to maintain licensure and stay current in the field.

• Tuition Assistance: May be available for further academic pursuits relevant to the healthcare field.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for employees facing personal or work-related challenges.

Working Hours:

• Primarily 4 x 10-hour Day shifts per week, with a rotating day off, typically Monday through Friday.

• Required participation in night, weekend, and holiday on-call assignments, necessitating prompt response.

📝 Enhancement Note: The sign-on incentive is a key draw for this position. Salary estimation is based on typical compensation for certified radiologic technologists with specialized cath lab experience in a major Midwestern academic medical center, considering the cost of living in Iowa City and the demand for such skilled professionals. Benefits are typical for large healthcare institutions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare (Academic Medical Center)

Company Size: Large (University of Iowa Health Care employs over 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers)

Founded: The University of Iowa was founded in 1847. The UI Heart & Vascular Center is a recognized leader in cardiovascular care.

Team Structure:

• The Imaging Technologist will be part of the Adult Cardiac Catheterization Lab team within the UI Heart and Vascular Center. This team likely includes interventional cardiologists, cardiology fellows, registered nurses, other imaging technologists, and support staff.

• The reporting structure typically involves a Lab Manager or Director of the Cath Lab, who oversees daily operations and staff.

• Collaboration is essential, requiring seamless interaction with physicians for procedural guidance, nurses for patient care, and other technologists for equipment management and workflow coordination. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: The UI Heart and Vascular Center, being a leading academic institution, emphasizes evidence-based practices and data analysis for patient care improvements, research, and operational efficiency.

• Process Optimization: Continuous improvement methodologies are likely employed to refine cath lab workflows, enhance patient safety, and optimize the use of advanced imaging technology.

• Patient-Centered Care: A core philosophy focused on providing safe, high-quality, and compassionate care, as evidenced by U.S. News & World Report recognition.

Company Website: https://uihc.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights the University of Iowa as a major academic medical center, suggesting a culture that values research, education, and cutting-edge patient care. The recognition by U.S. News & World Report underscores a commitment to excellence. The operations within the Cardiac Cath Lab are expected to be highly structured, protocol-driven, and collaborative.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an experienced technical specialist at the mid-career level. It requires advanced technical skills and the ability to work autonomously within a specialized clinical setting. It is not an entry-level position but offers significant professional development within cardiac imaging.

Reporting Structure: The Imaging Technologist will report to the Cath Lab Manager or a designated supervisor within the UI Heart and Vascular Center. They will work under the direct supervision of physicians during procedures.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts patient outcomes by enabling accurate cardiac diagnoses and therapeutic interventions through high-quality imaging. Efficiency in imaging procedures contributes to overall cath lab throughput, patient satisfaction, and resource utilization within the UI Health Care system.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in specific cardiac imaging techniques (e.g., advanced 3D imaging, interventional support) or pursue specialized certifications.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into roles such as Lead Imaging Technologist, trainer for new staff, or involvement in quality improvement projects within the cath lab.

• Cross-Training: Opportunities to gain experience in other related cardiovascular imaging modalities or interventional procedures within the broader UI Heart and Vascular Center.

• Continuing Education: Access to workshops, conferences, and advanced training programs to stay at the forefront of cardiac imaging technology and practice.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are framed within the context of specialized medical imaging and a large academic institution. Advancement is likely through demonstrated expertise, leadership initiative, and continuous learning, rather than traditional management tracks.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a clinical, on-site role within a hospital setting, specifically the Adult Cardiac Catheterization Lab (Cath Lab) at the UI Heart and Vascular Center.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is within the University of Iowa Health Care facilities in Iowa City, Iowa. This is a high-intensity, specialized clinical environment.

Workspace Context:

• High-Paced & Critical Environment: The Cath Lab is a dynamic and often high-pressure environment where split-second decisions are critical.

• Collaborative Team Space: Technologists work in close proximity with physicians, nurses, and other support staff, requiring constant communication and teamwork.

• Advanced Technology: Access to state-of-the-art digital angiography equipment, imaging workstations, and patient monitoring systems.

• Radiation Exposure: Requires strict adherence to radiation safety protocols and the use of protective shielding and equipment.

Work Schedule:

• The standard schedule involves 4 x 10-hour day shifts per week.

• A critical component is the mandatory on-call rotation for nights, weekends, and holidays, requiring rapid response to emergencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is demanding, requiring resilience, focus, and strong interpersonal skills. The technological sophistication of the cath lab necessitates continuous adaptation and learning.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application, resume, and cover letter to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with role requirements.

• Technical Interview: This may involve a discussion with the hiring manager (Kelli Ballard) and/or a senior technologist. Expect questions about your experience with digital angiography, cardiac cath procedures, patient care protocols, radiation safety, and troubleshooting.

• Skills Assessment/Scenario-Based Questions: You might be presented with hypothetical scenarios related to patient care, equipment malfunction, or procedural challenges to gauge your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: An opportunity to meet with members of the Cath Lab team to assess how well you would integrate into their collaborative environment. Questions may focus on teamwork, communication style, and adaptability.

• On-Call Protocol Discussion: A thorough review of the on-call expectations, response times, and responsibilities.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: For your resume and cover letter, highlight achievements and responsibilities that demonstrate your direct impact on patient care, procedural efficiency, and quality outcomes in cardiac imaging.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use numbers and data to illustrate your contributions (e.g., "Managed imaging for an average of X procedures per week," "Contributed to a Y% reduction in image rejections").

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Detail your experience with specific imaging equipment, software (e.g., 3D reconstruction tools), and diagnostic/therapeutic modalities.

• Emphasize Patient Safety: Highlight your understanding and application of radiation safety protocols, aseptic techniques, and patient monitoring.

• Tailor to the Role: Ensure your portfolio clearly aligns with the requirements of an Adult Cardiac Cath Lab Imaging Technologist, emphasizing cardiac-specific experience and skills.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Cath Lab Workflow: Be prepared to discuss the typical flow of a cardiac catheterization procedure from a technologist's perspective.

• Radiation Safety: Review current best practices and regulations for radiation safety in fluoroscopic procedures.

• ACLS/BLS Scenarios: Refresh your knowledge of emergency cardiac protocols.

• EPIC Familiarity: If you have EPIC experience, be ready to discuss how you've used it for patient documentation and workflow management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for a specialized clinical role like this emphasizes verifiable skills and experience. A strong resume and cover letter, along with a clear demonstration of technical competence and patient care focus, are critical. The portfolio review will likely focus on practical application and problem-solving.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Imaging & Diagnostic Tools:

• Digital Angiography Systems: Expertise in operating advanced fluoroscopic imaging systems from leading manufacturers (e.g., GE, Siemens, Philips) for cardiac procedures. This includes precise control of X-ray beam, image acquisition parameters, and real-time manipulation.

• Cardiac Catheterization Equipment: Familiarity with various catheters, guidewires, sheaths, and other interventional tools used in the cath lab.

• Contrast Media Injectors: Proficient in operating automated contrast injectors for precise and safe administration of contrast agents.

• Physiological Monitoring Systems: Experience with multi-parameter patient monitors for tracking ECG, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and other vital signs during procedures.

Processing & Analysis Tools:

• 3-D Reconstruction Software: Experience with software that allows for the creation of three-dimensional images from multiple 2D slices, aiding in complex anatomical visualization.

• Image Reprocessing Tools: Ability to refine or re-process acquired images to optimize diagnostic quality or prepare them for specific analysis.

• Spectroscopy Tools: Understanding and application of spectroscopy for tissue analysis or functional assessment, if utilized within the lab.

Data Management & Reporting Tools:

• Electronic Health Record (EHR) Systems: Proficiency in using systems like EPIC for patient charting, procedure documentation, order entry, and result retrieval.

• PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System): Experience with PACS for storing, retrieving, and viewing medical images.

• Workstation Software: Utilizing specialized workstations for image manipulation, measurement, and analysis.

Safety & Support Tools:

• Radiation Dosimetry Equipment: Understanding and use of personal dosimeters to monitor radiation exposure.

• Lead Shielding & Protective Gear: Proper use of lead aprons, thyroid shields, leaded glasses, and other protective equipment.

• Basic & Advanced Life Support Equipment: Familiarity with defibrillators, ventilators, and emergency medications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for a cardiac cath lab is highly specialized and critical. Proficiency with specific digital angiography systems and related software is paramount. The explicit mention of EPIC flags it as a key system for operational integration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient Safety First: A paramount commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of every patient undergoing procedures, reflected in meticulous adherence to protocols and vigilant monitoring.

• Excellence in Care: A drive to provide the highest standard of diagnostic and therapeutic cardiovascular care, supported by leading technology, skilled professionals, and continuous improvement.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: A culture where open communication, mutual respect, and shared responsibility are essential for successful patient outcomes and efficient operations.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in patient care, professional conduct, and data management.

• Innovation & Learning: A commitment to staying abreast of advancements in cardiac imaging and interventions, fostering an environment of continuous learning and professional development.

Collaboration Style:

• Synergistic Team Approach: The Cath Lab operates as a highly integrated unit where each member's role is critical. Collaboration involves proactive communication, anticipating needs, and supporting colleagues during high-pressure situations.

• Physician-Technologist Partnership: A close working relationship where the technologist executes imaging based on physician guidance while also providing critical real-time feedback on image quality and patient status.

• Interdisciplinary Communication: Regular verbal and documented communication with nurses, anesthesiologists (if applicable), and other specialists to ensure comprehensive patient management.

• Feedback Culture: An environment that encourages constructive feedback among team members to identify areas for process improvement and enhance overall team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture in a specialized, high-acuity unit like a cardiac cath lab is typically intense, demanding, and highly collaborative. The values emphasize patient care, technical excellence, and teamwork, which are crucial for success in this environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High-Pressure Environment: The fast-paced, critical nature of cardiac catheterization procedures can be stressful, requiring sustained focus and composure under pressure.

• Complex Equipment Management: Keeping pace with evolving imaging technology and troubleshooting complex equipment issues requires continuous learning and technical adaptability.

• Radiation Safety Management: Consistently adhering to stringent radiation safety protocols to minimize exposure for self, colleagues, and patients in an environment where fluoroscopy is essential.

• On-Call Demands: Balancing personal life with the requirement for prompt response to off-hours emergencies, which can be demanding.

• Adapting to Evolving Protocols: Staying current with new interventional techniques and associated imaging requirements necessitates ongoing education and skill development.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Imaging Certifications: Pursuing specialized certifications (e.g., RCIS - Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist, ARRT Advanced Cardiovascular Interventional Radiography) to enhance expertise and career prospects.

• Specialized Training: Opportunities to attend vendor-specific training for new imaging equipment, advanced techniques, and software updates.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gaining exposure to other areas within the UI Heart and Vascular Center, such as other interventional labs or diagnostic imaging specialties.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior technologists or interventional cardiologists, or to mentor junior staff, fostering leadership skills.

• Research Participation: Involvement in clinical research projects can provide valuable experience and contribute to professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to high-acuity clinical roles. The growth opportunities are geared towards deepening specialized clinical expertise and potentially moving into lead or training roles within the cath lab environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Procedural Expertise: Be prepared to discuss your experience with specific adult cardiac catheterization procedures (e.g., PCI, diagnostic angiography, structural heart interventions). How do you ensure optimal image quality for these procedures?

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Describe a time you encountered a challenging situation in the cath lab (e.g., equipment malfunction, unexpected patient response, difficult anatomy). How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?

• Teamwork & Communication: How do you effectively communicate with physicians and nurses during a procedure? Describe a situation where your communication skills were critical to patient safety or procedural success.

• Radiation Safety Practices: What are your standard practices for radiation safety in the cath lab? How do you balance the need for diagnostic imaging with minimizing radiation dose?

Company & Culture Questions:

• UI Health Care Values: Research the mission, vision, and values of the University of Iowa Health Care. How do your personal values and professional approach align with these?

• Team Dynamics: What do you look for in a high-performing cath lab team? How do you contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment?

• Quality Improvement: How do you contribute to quality assurance and process improvement in your current or previous roles?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Cardiac Cath Experience: Focus your portfolio on cases and experiences directly relevant to the Adult Cardiac Cath Lab.

• Showcase Technical Skills with Examples: Use visuals or detailed descriptions of how you operated imaging equipment, performed 3D reconstructions, or managed contrast administration.

• Emphasize Patient Care: Include examples of your patient interaction, monitoring skills, and commitment to safety protocols.

• Quantify Your Impact: If possible, use metrics to demonstrate the efficiency or quality of your work (e.g., average procedure imaging time, reduction in repeat scans).

• Be Ready for Technical Q&A: Anticipate detailed questions about the technology and procedures, and be prepared to articulate your knowledge clearly.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating specialized technical skills, a strong understanding of patient safety in a high-risk environment, and excellent teamwork capabilities. Quantifiable achievements and specific examples from cardiac cath lab experience will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Imaging Technologist position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the UI Talent Acquisition portal.

• Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter: Emphasize your experience in adult cardiac catheterization, digital angiography, patient monitoring, and relevant certifications (ARRT, BLS, ACLS). Clearly state any experience with EPIC.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of complex cases, workflow improvements, or any documentation that showcases your technical proficiency and commitment to patient safety in a cath lab environment. Be ready to discuss these during an interview.

• Research UI Health Care: Familiarize yourself with the UI Heart and Vascular Center's reputation, services, and the University of Iowa's mission and values to demonstrate your genuine interest and cultural fit.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer scenario-based questions related to patient care, technical challenges, radiation safety, and teamwork. Be ready to articulate your on-call readiness.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.