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

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Imaging Technologist - Adult Cardiac Cath Lab

Company: University of Iowa Health Care

Location: Iowa City, Iowa, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Healthcare Operations / Medical Imaging

Date Posted: June 04, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years (Mid-level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This Senior Imaging Technologist role focuses on the specialized technical operations within an Adult Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory.

• Key responsibilities include the proficient operation of advanced digital angiography and physiologic recording equipment, crucial for diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac procedures.

• The role demands active participation in scrub and circulating duties, ensuring seamless patient care and procedure execution under the guidance of cardiologists.

• Significant emphasis is placed on maintaining equipment functionality, providing technical guidance to trainees, and adhering to stringent quality control standards within a high-acuity healthcare environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title suggests a technical "Technologist" role, the context of "Senior" implies a level of autonomy, responsibility for training, and potential involvement in process improvement, aligning it with operational excellence within a specialized healthcare unit. The "UI Heart and Vascular Center" being recognized by U.S. News & World Report indicates a high standard of care and advanced technology, requiring a professional with robust technical and operational skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Operate advanced digital angiography imaging equipment and associated physiologic recording and analysis systems (e.g., cardiac output computers, oximeters).

• Execute scrub and circulating duties with precision during diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac catheterization procedures.

• Prepare and operate the Intra-aortic Balloon Pump under the direct supervision and order of a cardiologist.

• Conduct regular quality control checks and perform general maintenance and troubleshooting on all radiologic equipment to ensure optimal operating condition.

• Prepare sterile instrument tables and perform post-procedure cleanup, maintaining a sterile field throughout procedures.

• Provide direct patient care, including monitoring vital signs and administering Basic and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (BCLS/ACLS) as needed.

• Accurately level pressure transducers and manage the delivery of contrast material via pressure injection systems as ordered.

• Facilitate effective handoff reporting and maintain clear, efficient communication with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.

• Provide instruction and orientation to trainees and students on equipment operation, safety protocols, and procedural workflows.

• Assist the clinical supervisor with inventory management and ordering of necessary supplies for the cardiac cath lab.

• Participate in on-call rotations, ensuring timely response to emergent situations.

• Continuously update knowledge of radiologic technology advancements through continuing education and professional engagement.

• Adhere strictly to general policies and procedures set forth by University of Iowa Health Care, the Department of Internal Medicine, and the UI Heart and Vascular Center.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct patient care, advanced technical operations, and a "senior" component involving training and equipment oversight. This suggests the role requires not just technical proficiency but also a capacity for leadership and operational efficiency within the cardiac cath lab environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Radiologic Technology or another Allied Health Sciences discipline.

• Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered. Experience:

• Minimum 6 months of imaging technologist experience required; experience in a Cardiac Cath Lab or Electrophysiology (EP) setting is strongly preferred.

• Demonstrated ability to function autonomously while actively collaborating within a multidisciplinary team. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in operating digital angiography imaging equipment.

• Experience with physiologic recording and analysis equipment (e.g., cardiac output computers, oximeters).

• Skilled in performing both scrub and circulating duties in a procedural setting.

• Competent in patient care, including vital sign monitoring and cardiovascular life support (BCLS/ACLS).

• Ability to perform sterile table setup and maintain sterile fields.

• Knowledge of radiologic equipment quality control and basic troubleshooting.

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

• Ability to respond to on-call assignments within 20-30 minutes. Preferred Skills:

• 1 year of imaging technologist experience in a Cardiac Cath or EP setting.

• Experience using Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems.

• Familiarity with University of Iowa policies, procedures, and regulations.

• Membership in relevant professional societies. Certification/Licensure Requirements:

• Certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or equivalent radiologic technological certification.

• Current Iowa Permit to Practice by the State of Iowa for operating ionizing radiation equipment.

• Current certification in Basic and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (BCLS/ACLS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for ARRT certification and Iowa Permit to Practice, alongside BCLS/ACLS, underscores the critical need for compliance and specialized medical expertise. The preference for Cath/EP experience and EMR proficiency points towards candidates who can integrate quickly and contribute to operational efficiency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Study Examples: Showcase specific cardiac interventional or diagnostic procedures where your technical skills were critical. Detail the equipment used, your role (scrub/circulator), and the outcome.

• Equipment Proficiency: Document your experience with various imaging modalities and analysis equipment used in cardiac cath labs. Highlight specific systems you are proficient with.

• Process Improvement Contributions: If any, detail instances where you identified an inefficiency or safety concern in workflow or equipment use and proposed or implemented a solution. Focus on the impact on patient care, efficiency, or safety.

• Quality Control Documentation: If possible, include documentation or describe your process for performing quality control checks on imaging equipment.

• Collaboration Examples: Provide examples of effective collaboration with cardiologists, nurses, and other team members during complex procedures.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to demonstrate an understanding of sterile processing protocols, patient preparation workflows, and post-procedure cleanup procedures specific to the cardiac cath lab.

• Familiarity with the documentation requirements for procedures, including accurate leveling of transducers and recording of vital patient data, is essential.

• Evidence of maintaining operational readiness of equipment through routine checks and prompt reporting of issues is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested beyond a resume and cover letter, "Senior" roles often benefit from candidates who can articulate their experience through concrete examples. The inclusion of "Duties to Include" and "Experience Requirements" implies an expectation that candidates can speak to specific technical processes and operational contributions during an interview. Preparing a document that outlines key procedures, equipment, and any process improvements would be highly beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Imaging Technologists in a major academic medical center in the Midwest, a salary range of $65,000 - $85,000 annually is estimated. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and internal university pay scales. Benefits:

• Sign-on Incentive: Eligible candidates may receive a $10,000 sign-on incentive (current UI employees are not eligible).

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement Plan: Access to the University of Iowa's retirement savings plan.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay.

• Continuing Education: Support for professional development, including continuing education programs and potential tuition assistance.

• Employee Assistance Program: Access to confidential counseling and support services.

• Wellness Programs: Opportunities for health and wellness initiatives.

Working Hours:

• 4 x 10-hour day shifts per week (Monday - Friday).

• Requirement for night, weekend, and holiday on-call assignments.

• Ability to respond to on-call within 20-30 minutes is mandatory.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from analyzing similar roles in academic medical centers in the Midwest, considering the "Senior" title, the specialized Cardiac Cath Lab environment, and the required certifications. The sign-on incentive is a significant benefit that should be highlighted. The 10-hour shifts and on-call duties indicate a demanding but potentially rewarding schedule for dedicated professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare (Academic Medical Center)

Company Size: University of Iowa Health Care employs over 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers, indicating a large, complex, and well-established organization.

Founded: The University of Iowa was founded in 1847, with its health care system evolving over many decades to become a comprehensive academic medical center.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the UI Heart and Vascular Center, a specialized unit within a larger academic medical institution.

• The Cardiac Cath Lab team likely includes cardiologists, interventional cardiologists, registered nurses, and other technologists.

• The Senior Imaging Technologist may report to a Clinical Supervisor or Manager within the Cath Lab operations.

• Collaboration is expected across various medical disciplines and support services within the hospital. Methodology:

• The UI Heart and Vascular Center emphasizes patient-centered care, advanced clinical technologies, and data-driven decision-making, as evidenced by its national recognition.

• Operations within the lab are guided by established protocols, quality control measures, and a commitment to continuous improvement in patient outcomes and efficiency.

• A strong focus on evidence-based practices and staying abreast of the latest advancements in cardiac care and imaging technology.

Company Website: https://www.uihealthcare.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's status as a leading academic medical center suggests a culture that values expertise, continuous learning, and high standards of patient care. The "Changing Medicine. Changing Lives." slogan reinforces a mission-driven approach. The scale of the organization implies robust infrastructure and resources but also requires navigating complex internal processes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level to senior technical specialist level within the operations of the Cardiac Cath Lab. It requires a blend of advanced technical skills, operational responsibility, and the ability to mentor or guide less experienced staff.

Reporting Structure:

• The Senior Imaging Technologist will likely report to a Clinical Supervisor or Manager of Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory Services.

• They will work collaboratively with cardiologists, interventional cardiologists, nurses, and other members of the cath lab team. Operations Impact:

• The role directly impacts patient outcomes by ensuring the accurate and efficient execution of critical diagnostic and interventional cardiac procedures.

• Proficient operation of imaging and monitoring equipment, coupled with meticulous scrub/circulating duties, is vital for patient safety and procedural success.

• Contributions to equipment maintenance and quality control directly support the reliability and performance of the lab's operational capabilities.

• Training and mentoring junior staff enhances the overall skill level and operational capacity of the entire cath lab team. Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into roles such as Lead Technologist, Clinical Supervisor, or Manager within the Cardiac Cath Lab or other imaging departments.

• Specialization: Opportunity to gain deeper expertise in specific advanced cardiac procedures or imaging techniques.

• Advanced Certifications: Pursue further certifications or degrees in advanced cardiovascular technology or healthcare management.

• Interdepartmental Mobility: Potential to transition into other specialized imaging or interventional departments within the University of Iowa Health Care system.

• Training & Education: Develop skills in staff training and clinical education, potentially leading to formal educator roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" designation implies a pathway for growth beyond the technical execution of duties. The role is a stepping stone for individuals looking to deepen their expertise, take on more responsibility, or move into leadership and training positions within a highly specialized medical operations environment.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role within a hospital setting, specifically within the Adult Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab).

Office Location(s): Iowa City, Iowa, within the University of Iowa Health Care facilities. Specific building details would be provided upon inquiry or during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is a high-pressure, fast-paced clinical setting requiring constant vigilance and rapid decision-making.

• Exposure to radiation is a factor, necessitating adherence to strict safety protocols and use of protective equipment.

• The lab is equipped with advanced medical imaging and monitoring technology, requiring skilled operation and maintenance.

• Close collaboration with a multidisciplinary team (physicians, nurses, other technologists) is fundamental to daily operations.

• The environment demands a high level of professionalism, focus, and adherence to sterile techniques. Work Schedule:

• Predominantly 4 x 10-hour day shifts, Monday through Friday.

• This schedule requires flexibility for mandatory night, weekend, and holiday on-call assignments, with a strict response time requirement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The environment is demanding, requiring resilience, excellent stress management, and a strong commitment to patient safety and team collaboration. The on-call component is a critical operational aspect that candidates must be prepared for.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and cover letter to assess qualifications against requirements.

• Phone/Video Interview: May involve HR or a hiring manager to discuss experience, motivation, and basic qualifications.

• On-site Interview/Panel Interview: This will likely be the most in-depth stage, involving the hiring manager, potential colleagues (nurses, other technologists), and possibly a cardiologist.

• Skills Assessment/Demonstration: While not explicitly stated, candidates may be asked to discuss specific procedures, equipment operations, or demonstrate knowledge through scenario-based questions.

• Final Selection: Evaluation based on technical proficiency, team fit, communication skills, and understanding of the role's operational demands.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience in cardiac cath labs, digital angiography, and relevant certifications (ARRT, BLS, ACLS). Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Performed X procedures per week," "Contributed to Y% reduction in equipment downtime").

• Cover Letter: Clearly articulate your interest in the Senior Imaging Technologist role at the UI Heart and Vascular Center. Connect your experience to the core responsibilities and express your understanding of the lab's reputation and operational standards. Mention your readiness for on-call duties and your desire to contribute to a "best heart hospital."

• Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific patient care situations, equipment malfunctions, or complex procedural challenges.

• Highlight Collaboration: Prepare examples that showcase your ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team, communicate clearly under pressure, and support colleagues.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Knowledge: Brush up on cardiac anatomy, common cardiac procedures (angiography, angioplasty, stenting), contrast media administration, and troubleshooting common equipment issues.

• Safety Protocols: Be prepared to discuss radiation safety protocols, sterile technique maintenance, and emergency response procedures (e.g., ACLS scenarios).

• Operational Efficiency: Think about how you contribute to the smooth operation of the cath lab – efficient setup, timely procedures, effective communication, and equipment readiness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of uploading a resume and cover letter as "Relevant File" indicates these are crucial application components. Given the "Senior" title and the specialized nature of the role, interviewers will likely probe deeply into technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and the candidate's understanding of operational excellence in a cardiac cath lab.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Digital Angiography Systems: Expertise with specific vendor systems (e.g., GE, Siemens, Philips) used for cardiac imaging.

• Physiologic Recording & Analysis Equipment: Experience with systems for monitoring and analyzing cardiac output, oxygen consumption, oximetry, and hemodynamic pressures.

• Intra-aortic Balloon Pump (IABP): Proficiency in operating and managing IABP devices.

• Contrast Injection Systems: Familiarity with pressure-based injection systems for contrast media.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Electronic Medical Records (EMR): Experience with systems like Epic (common in academic medical centers) for patient charting, procedure documentation, and order entry.

• Data Logging Systems: Potential use of specific software for tracking equipment performance, procedure volumes, or quality metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how patient data flows into hospital information systems and how procedural data is logged is important.

• Familiarity with hospital-specific IT systems and communication platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description explicitly mentions "digital angiography imaging equipment," "physiologic recorder and analysis equipment," and "Intra-aortic Balloon Pump." Experience with these specific types of medical devices is paramount. The mention of "electronic medical records" suggests proficiency with hospital EMR systems is a strong asset.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient Safety and Care: Paramount importance placed on providing the highest quality of care and ensuring patient safety during all procedures.

• Technical Excellence: Commitment to operating sophisticated medical equipment with precision and expertise.

• Teamwork and Collaboration: Strong emphasis on working effectively within a multidisciplinary team, fostering mutual respect and clear communication.

• Continuous Improvement: Dedication to staying current with medical advancements and contributing to the enhancement of lab operations and patient outcomes.

• Accountability and Professionalism: Taking ownership of responsibilities, maintaining professional conduct, and demonstrating pride in work performed.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, requiring seamless interaction between technologists, nurses, and physicians during time-sensitive procedures.

• Open communication channels are essential for reporting findings, coordinating actions, and ensuring patient well-being.

• A culture of shared responsibility for the success of each procedure and the overall functioning of the lab.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission and recognition ("best heart hospital") imply a culture that values high performance, dedication, and a collective drive for excellence in patient care and medical innovation. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of these values in their application and interviews.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High-Pressure Environment: The cardiac cath lab is a demanding, fast-paced setting where quick, accurate decision-making is critical.

• On-Call Responsibilities: Balancing personal life with the requirement to be available for emergent situations at all hours.

• Radiation Exposure: Managing personal safety while performing duties that involve ionizing radiation.

• Complex Equipment: Staying proficient with advanced and evolving imaging and monitoring technologies.

• Cross-Functional Dynamics: Navigating communication and workflow with diverse medical professionals.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Procedural Training: Deepen expertise in specialized cardiac interventions and imaging techniques.

• Leadership Skills: Develop skills in team supervision, training, and operational management.

• Professional Certifications: Opportunities to maintain and expand certifications (e.g., advanced ARRT specializations, additional life support credentials).

• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Technology: Work with state-of-the-art equipment and participate in the adoption of new technologies.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by experienced leaders and to mentor junior staff, enhancing teaching and leadership capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical of specialized roles in critical care settings. The growth opportunities highlight the potential for career advancement within the University of Iowa Health Care system for motivated and skilled individuals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex cardiac procedure you assisted with. What was your role, and how did you ensure patient safety and procedural success?"

• "How do you handle equipment malfunctions or unexpected issues during a critical procedure?"

• "Explain your process for performing quality control checks on digital angiography equipment."

• "How do you ensure clear and effective communication with cardiologists and nurses during a high-stress situation?"

• "Describe your experience with Intra-aortic Balloon Pump operation and management."

• "What are the key steps in preparing a patient for a cardiac catheterization procedure from an imaging technologist's perspective?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for the University of Iowa Heart and Vascular Center specifically?"

• "How do you align with our mission of 'Changing Medicine. Changing Lives.'?"

• "Describe a time you had to adapt to a new piece of medical technology or a change in procedure."

• "How do you contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment?"

• "What does 'patient-centered care' mean to you in the context of the cardiac cath lab?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Review: Be prepared to walk through your resume, elaborating on your experience in cardiac cath labs, specific equipment you've operated, and your certifications.

• Scenario Discussion: Instead of a formal portfolio, be ready to discuss specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork.

• Highlight Key Responsibilities: Focus your discussion on how your past roles align with the primary responsibilities listed in the job description, particularly around equipment operation, patient care, and team collaboration.

• Emphasize Seniority: Articulate how your experience qualifies you for a "Senior" role, such as your ability to troubleshoot, train others, or contribute to operational improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will likely focus on practical application of skills. Candidates should prepare specific examples that demonstrate their technical proficiency, adaptability, and ability to thrive in a high-stakes clinical environment. The "Senior" aspect means they'll look for signs of leadership potential and independent problem-solving.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Imaging Technologist position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the University of Iowa's Taleo career portal.

• Resume & Cover Letter Customization: Ensure your resume and cover letter are meticulously tailored to this specific role, highlighting all relevant cardiac cath lab experience, ARRT certification, BLS/ACLS, and any experience with IABP or specific imaging systems. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Portfolio Preparation (Mental/Documented): While not a formal submission, prepare to discuss specific case studies, technical challenges you've overcome, and examples of your collaborative skills. Consider having a brief document ready with key procedural steps or equipment troubleshooting tips you can reference if asked.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research the UI Heart and Vascular Center's reputation, services, and any recent achievements. Understand their commitment to being the "best heart hospital in Iowa" and how your role contributes to that.

• On-Call Readiness: Be prepared to confirm your ability and willingness to meet the on-call response time requirements (20-30 minutes).

⚠️ 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. The sign-on incentive details and eligibility criteria should be confirmed with the hiring contact.