100%25 Senior Imaging Technologist, Advanced Modalities - Adult Cardiac Cath Lab - UI Heart and Vascular Center
📍 Job Overview
Job Title: Senior Imaging Technologist, Advanced Modalities - Adult Cardiac Cath Lab
Company: University of Iowa
Location: Iowa City, Iowa, United States
Job Type: Full-time, Regular
Category: Healthcare Operations / Clinical Technology
Date Posted: September 10, 2026
Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Entry to Junior Level)
Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Role Summary
-
This Senior Imaging Technologist role within the Adult Cardiac Cath Lab at the UI Heart and Vascular Center focuses on the operation of advanced imaging and physiologic monitoring equipment.
-
Responsibilities include performing critical scrub and circulating duties during diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac procedures, ensuring high standards of patient care and procedural efficiency.
-
The role demands effective communication with patients, families, and the multidisciplinary team, functioning under limited supervision.
-
A key aspect involves maintaining the operational integrity of radiologic and analysis equipment through quality control checks and initiating repairs as needed.
📝 Enhancement Note: While the title indicates "Senior," the provided experience level (0-2 years) suggests this role may be more accurately positioned as a skilled technologist with potential for growth into a senior capacity, or that "Senior" refers to the advanced modalities and complexity of the lab rather than extensive prior experience. The emphasis on "limited supervision" and "autonomy" aligns with a mid-level technologist role.
📈 Primary Responsibilities
-
Operate digital angiography imaging equipment and associated physiologic recorder/analysis equipment (e.g., cardiac output computers, oximeters).
-
Perform sterile table set-up, pre-procedure site preparation, and post-procedure clean-up with meticulous attention to detail.
-
Execute circulating duties, including direct patient care, vital sign monitoring, and ensuring patient comfort and safety throughout invasive procedures.
-
Administer contrast material via pressure injection systems as ordered by cardiologists, adhering to strict protocols.
-
Operate the Intra-aortic Balloon Pump under the direct supervision of a cardiologist.
-
Conduct regular quality control checks on all radiologic equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety, and perform routine maintenance and cleaning.
-
Troubleshoot minor equipment issues and initiate repair requests for complex problems to maintain lab operational readiness.
-
Provide comprehensive instruction and orientation to trainees, students, and other hospital personnel regarding equipment operation, safety protocols, and specific procedural techniques.
-
Assist the clinical supervisor with inventory management and the ordering of necessary supplies to ensure adequate stock levels.
-
Participate actively in night, weekend, and holiday on-call rotations, ensuring rapid response within 20-30 minutes when called in.
-
Maintain current knowledge of advancements in radiologic technology and cardiovascular procedures through continuous education, professional development, and engagement with industry publications.
-
Adhere to all general policies and procedures set forth by the University of Iowa Health Care, Department of Internal Medicine, and UI Heart and Vascular Center.
-
Demonstrate a high level of professionalism, accountability, pride in work, and flexibility in adapting to changing assignments and patient needs.
📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical operation, direct patient care, and equipment management, typical of a specialized cath lab technologist. The emphasis on "limited supervision" and "autonomy" suggests the need for a candidate who can work independently while being an integral part of a collaborative team.
🎓 Skills & Qualifications
Education: A Bachelor's Degree in Radiologic Technology, another Allied Health Sciences discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience: A minimum of 6 months of imaging technologist experience is required; experience in a Cardiac Catheterization (Cath) or Electrophysiology (EP) setting is strongly preferred. Proven ability to function with a high degree of autonomy while actively collaborating within a multi-disciplinary team is essential.
Required Skills:
-
Proficiency in operating digital angiography imaging equipment.
-
Experience with physiologic monitoring and analysis equipment (e.g., cardiac output computers, oximeters).
-
Competence in performing scrub and circulating duties in an invasive cardiac procedure setting.
-
Strong understanding of sterile techniques and sterile table set-up procedures.
-
Demonstrated ability in patient care, including vital sign monitoring and Basic/Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (BCLS/ACLS).
-
Skill in performing quality control checks and basic maintenance on radiologic equipment.
-
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills for effective team and patient interaction.
-
Ability to respond to on-call duties within a 20-30 minute timeframe. Preferred Skills:
-
1 year of imaging technologist experience, specifically in a Cath or EP lab setting.
-
Familiarity with using electronic medical records (EMR) systems.
-
Knowledge of University of Iowa policies, procedures, and regulations.
-
Membership in relevant professional societies (e.g., Society of Invasive Cardiovascular Professionals - SICP).
📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" designation, combined with the minimum 6-month experience requirement, suggests that candidates with 1-2 years of relevant experience will be highly competitive. The emphasis on autonomy and collaboration points towards candidates who are proactive problem-solvers and effective team players.
📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
-
Procedural Efficiency Case Studies: Showcase examples of how you optimized workflow or improved efficiency during cardiac procedures, quantifying time savings or throughput increases where possible.
-
Equipment Operation & Troubleshooting: Demonstrate your ability to operate complex imaging and monitoring systems. Include examples of how you performed quality control checks, maintenance, or troubleshooting that ensured equipment readiness.
-
Patient Care Protocols: Highlight your adherence to sterile techniques, patient safety protocols, and critical care procedures within an invasive setting.
-
Collaboration & Handoff Documentation: Provide examples of effective communication and handoff reporting, demonstrating seamless collaboration with cardiologists, nurses, and other team members.
Process Documentation:
-
Workflow Mapping: Illustrate your understanding of cath lab workflows from patient intake to post-procedure care, identifying potential bottlenecks and proposing solutions for optimization.
-
Quality Control Procedures: Document your experience in implementing or adhering to quality control measures for radiologic equipment, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
-
Training & Mentorship Contributions: Showcase any experience you have in training or orienting new staff, students, or trainees on equipment operation, safety, and procedural best practices.
📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should emphasize practical application of technical skills, patient care acumen, and problem-solving abilities within the cath lab environment. Quantifiable achievements related to efficiency or quality improvements will be highly valued.
💵 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: The University of Iowa typically offers competitive salaries for specialized clinical roles. Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Imaging Technologist in a Cardiac Cath Lab in Iowa City, Iowa, with the specified experience level and certifications, an estimated annual salary range would be between $65,000 - $85,000. This range accounts for the required Bachelor's degree, specialized certifications, and the on-call responsibilities.
Benefits:
-
Sign-on Incentive: Eligible candidates may receive a $10,000 sign-on incentive (current UI employees are not eligible).
-
Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
-
Retirement Savings Plan: Opportunities for 403(b) or similar retirement plan contributions.
-
Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrual of vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
-
Tuition Assistance: Potential for educational assistance for continuing education or further degrees.
-
Professional Development: Opportunities for continuing education, certifications, and attendance at conferences.
-
Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided and optional supplemental coverage.
Working Hours: This is a full-time position requiring 40 hours per week, scheduled as four 10-hour day shifts per week, with one rotating day off during the Monday-Friday work week. Additionally, the role includes mandatory night, weekend, and holiday on-call assignments.
📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on publicly available data for similar roles in the region and the specified requirements. Actual compensation will be determined by the University of Iowa based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity. The sign-on incentive is a significant attraction for external candidates.
🎯 Team & Company Context
🏢 Company Culture
Industry: Healthcare (Academic Medical Center)
Company Size: The University of Iowa Health Care employs over 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers, indicating a large, complex organization with extensive resources and a broad scope of services.
Founded: The University of Iowa was founded in 1847, with its health care system developing over time to become a comprehensive academic medical center. This long history suggests a stable, established institution with a deep commitment to its mission.
Team Structure:
-
The UI Heart and Vascular Center operates as a specialized unit within the larger University of Iowa Health Care system.
-
The Adult Cardiac Cath Lab team likely consists of cardiologists, interventional cardiologists, registered nurses, radiologic technologists, and potentially other allied health professionals.
-
The Senior Imaging Technologist reports to a Clinical Supervisor or Manager within the Cath Lab, working closely with a multidisciplinary team during procedures. Methodology:
-
Patient-Centered Care: Emphasis on providing safe, high-quality healthcare and excellent service, prioritizing patient outcomes and experience.
-
Academic Excellence: Commitment to education, research, and innovation in medicine, fostering a learning environment for staff and students.
-
Evidence-Based Practice: Utilization of advanced clinical technologies and data-driven approaches to patient care, as recognized by national rankings.
-
Collaborative Environment: Encouragement of interdisciplinary teamwork to achieve optimal patient results.
Company Website: https://uiowa.edu/ and https://uihc.org/heart-and-vascular
📝 Enhancement Note: The "best heart hospital in Iowa" recognition by U.S. News & World Report highlights a commitment to excellence and advanced care, which should resonate with ambitious clinical professionals. The academic setting implies opportunities for continuous learning and involvement in cutting-edge practices.
📈 Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Senior Imaging Technologist" within a specialized clinical department. While the explicit experience requirement is 0-2 years, the "Senior" title implies a level of responsibility beyond entry-level, focusing on advanced modalities and independent operation. It represents a crucial technician role within the cardiac intervention pathway, requiring specialized skills and certifications.
Reporting Structure: The Senior Imaging Technologist will report to a Clinical Supervisor or Manager within the UI Heart and Vascular Center. They will work collaboratively with a team of cardiologists, nurses, and other technologists, providing direct support during invasive procedures.
Operations Impact: The technologist's role is critical to the successful execution of diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac procedures. Their proficiency in operating advanced imaging and monitoring equipment directly impacts diagnostic accuracy, procedural efficiency, patient safety, and overall patient outcomes. Effective equipment management and quality control contribute to the reliability and cost-effectiveness of the lab's operations.
Growth Opportunities:
-
Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced modalities within the Cardiac Cath Lab, potentially focusing on specific complex procedures or technologies.
-
Leadership Development: Progress into roles such as Lead Technologist, Clinical Supervisor, or Manager within the Cath Lab or other procedural areas.
-
Education & Training: Become a primary trainer or preceptor for new technologists, students, or junior staff.
-
Further Certifications: Pursue advanced certifications (e.g., Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist - RCIS, Registered Cardiac Electrophysiology Specialist - RCES) to expand skill set and career options.
-
Cross-Departmental Mobility: Opportunities may exist within other imaging or interventional departments within the larger University of Iowa Health Care system.
📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title, despite the entry-level experience, suggests that the organization values specialized skills and the ability to perform with autonomy. Growth paths likely involve increasing responsibility within the cath lab or moving into supervisory/educational roles, supported by the academic nature of the institution.
🌐 Work Environment
Office Type: This is an on-site role within a high-acuity clinical setting – the Adult Cardiac Cath Lab at the UI Heart and Vascular Center. The environment is dynamic, fast-paced, and requires constant readiness for emergent situations.
Office Location(s): Iowa City, Iowa. The University of Iowa Health Care campus is a central hub for medical services in the region.
Workspace Context:
-
Clinical Environment: The workspace is a specialized laboratory equipped with advanced digital angiography systems, hemodynamic monitoring equipment, and sterile procedure areas.
-
Collaborative Setup: Technologists work in close proximity with cardiologists, nurses, and other support staff, requiring strong teamwork and communication.
-
Technology Integration: Access to state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic technology is standard, with an expectation for proficiency and adaptability.
-
Safety Protocols: Strict adherence to radiation safety, infection control, and patient safety protocols is paramount.
Work Schedule: The primary schedule involves four 10-hour day shifts (Monday-Friday) with one rotating day off. This is supplemented by mandatory on-call duties for nights, weekends, and holidays, requiring rapid response to the facility.
📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared for a demanding clinical environment that requires both technical expertise and the ability to perform under pressure. The on-call component is a significant commitment that necessitates living within a reasonable proximity to the hospital.
📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
-
Initial Screening: Application review, including resume, cover letter, and verification of required certifications and education.
-
Technical Interview: Discussion focused on cath lab procedures, equipment operation (digital angiography, physiologic monitoring), sterile technique, patient care, and troubleshooting scenarios. Expect questions about specific modalities and common cardiac interventions.
-
Behavioral Interview: Assessment of teamwork, communication, problem-solving abilities, stress management, and adaptability, particularly in the context of on-call duties and emergent situations. Questions may probe how you handle complex patient cases or collaborate with diverse team members.
-
Skills Demonstration/Scenario: Potentially a practical assessment or scenario-based question simulating a cath lab procedure or equipment issue to evaluate your response and decision-making.
-
Final Interview: May involve meeting with the Clinical Supervisor, Manager, or key physicians to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and confirm understanding of the role's demands.
Portfolio Review Tips:
-
Cath Lab Focus: Prioritize examples demonstrating your experience and skills directly related to cardiac catheterization procedures, advanced modalities, and patient care in an interventional setting.
-
Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, include metrics such as procedure turnaround times, equipment uptime percentages, or contributions to process improvements that saved time or resources.
-
Certification & Education: Clearly present your ARRT, Iowa Permit to Practice, BCLS/ACLS, and any preferred advanced certifications (RCIS, RCES).
-
Problem-Solving Examples: Detail specific instances where you identified and resolved a technical issue with imaging equipment or a procedural workflow challenge.
-
Teamwork Narratives: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe situations where your collaboration was crucial for successful patient outcomes or efficient lab operation.
Challenge Preparation:
-
Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions like: "How would you handle a sudden equipment malfunction during a critical part of a procedure?" or "Describe the steps you take to ensure patient safety and sterility during a complex PCI."
-
Technical Knowledge: Brush up on common cardiac anatomy, pathologies, interventional procedures (PCI, diagnostic angiography), and the function of key equipment (imaging systems, IABP, pressure injectors).
-
On-Call Preparedness: Be ready to discuss how you manage on-call responsibilities, including response times, preparedness, and managing fatigue.
📝 Enhancement Note: The application requires a resume and cover letter. Emphasize your specific cath lab experience, certifications, and ability to work autonomously and collaboratively. The "Senior" title suggests they are looking for someone who can hit the ground running with minimal ramp-up time on core duties.
🛠 Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
-
Digital Angiography Systems: Expertise in operating advanced imaging equipment from leading manufacturers (e.g., GE, Siemens, Philips) used for fluoroscopy and angiography in cardiac procedures.
-
Physiologic Recording & Analysis Equipment: Proficiency with systems for cardiac output monitoring, oxygen consumption analysis, oximeters, and hemochron machines.
-
Pressure Injection Systems: Experience operating contrast delivery systems for ordered procedures.
-
Intra-aortic Balloon Pump (IABP): Competency in operating and monitoring IABP systems under physician supervision.
Analytics & Reporting:
-
Cath Lab Information Systems (LIS/RIS): Familiarity with systems used for procedure scheduling, documentation, and reporting (specific vendor may vary).
-
Quality Control Software: Experience with software or tools used for equipment quality assurance checks and maintenance logs.
CRM & Automation:
-
Electronic Medical Records (EMR): Experience with EMR systems (e.g., Epic, Cerner) for patient charting, order entry, and accessing patient history.
-
Inventory Management Systems: Basic understanding of systems or processes for tracking and ordering cath lab supplies.
📝 Enhancement Note: The core of this role revolves around specialized medical imaging and monitoring equipment. Proficiency with specific vendors is less critical than the ability to learn and operate new systems quickly and safely. EMR experience is a desired but not required skill.
👥 Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
-
Patient Safety & Quality: Paramount importance placed on ensuring the well-being of patients through meticulous procedures, adherence to protocols, and continuous quality improvement.
-
Excellence & Innovation: Commitment to being a leading healthcare provider, embracing advanced technologies and evidence-based practices to improve patient care.
-
Teamwork & Collaboration: Strong emphasis on interdisciplinary cooperation, mutual respect, and effective communication among all members of the care team.
-
Professionalism & Accountability: Expectation of high ethical standards, dedication to one's role, and taking ownership of responsibilities.
-
Lifelong Learning: Encouragement of continuous professional development and staying current with advancements in the field.
Collaboration Style:
-
Integrated Care Teams: Technologists work as integral members of the cath lab team, alongside physicians and nurses, requiring seamless coordination during procedures.
-
Open Communication: A culture that encourages clear, concise, and timely communication, especially during high-pressure situations and patient handoffs.
-
Knowledge Sharing: Opportunities to learn from and share knowledge with colleagues, fostering a continuous improvement mindset.
-
Respectful Interaction: Valuing the contributions of all team members, regardless of role, to achieve collective goals.
📝 Enhancement Note: The University of Iowa Health Care's mission ("Changing Medicine. Changing Lives.") suggests a culture driven by impact, innovation, and patient advocacy. Candidates should align with these values, demonstrating a commitment to both clinical excellence and compassionate care.
⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
-
High-Pressure Environment: The cath lab is often a high-stress environment, requiring the ability to remain calm and focused during critical and emergent procedures.
-
On-Call Demands: Balancing personal life with frequent on-call responsibilities, including rapid response times and potential disruptions to scheduled work.
-
Technological Advancement: Keeping pace with rapidly evolving imaging and monitoring technologies requires continuous learning and adaptation.
-
Complex Patient Cases: Managing a diverse range of patient conditions, from routine diagnostics to complex interventions, often with comorbidities.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
-
Advanced Modality Training: Deepen expertise in specific imaging techniques and equipment within the cath lab.
-
Certification Support: Opportunities to prepare for and obtain advanced certifications like RCIS or RCES, potentially with employer assistance.
-
Cross-Training: Potential for exposure to other interventional labs or advanced imaging procedures within the Heart and Vascular Center.
-
Mentorship Programs: Access to experienced professionals who can provide guidance on career development and skill enhancement.
-
Continuing Education: Support for attending workshops, conferences, and online courses relevant to cardiovascular imaging and technology.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a significant opportunity to specialize in a critical area of cardiovascular care. The challenges are balanced by robust growth potential within a leading academic medical center.
💡 Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
-
Procedural Expertise: "Describe your experience with digital angiography systems and your approach to quality control." "Walk me through the steps you take to prepare for and assist in a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)." "How do you manage patient anxiety and ensure comfort during an invasive procedure?"
-
Teamwork & Communication: "Describe a time you had a disagreement with a team member in the cath lab and how you resolved it." "How do you ensure effective handoff communication between shifts or during a complex procedure?"
-
Problem-Solving: "What would you do if you noticed an abnormality on the imaging equipment during a critical part of a procedure?" "How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple immediate demands in the cath lab?"
Company & Culture Questions:
-
"Why are you interested in the UI Heart and Vascular Center and this specific role?" "How do your professional values align with the University of Iowa's mission of 'Changing Medicine. Changing Lives.'" "What do you see as the biggest challenge in a cath lab environment, and how do you manage it?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
-
Concise Case Studies: Prepare 2-3 brief case studies highlighting your technical skills, problem-solving, and contribution to patient care or procedural efficiency. Focus on your specific role and impact.
-
Highlight Certifications: Clearly showcase your ARRT, Iowa Permit, BCLS/ACLS, and any other relevant certifications.
-
Demonstrate Autonomy: Use examples to illustrate your ability to work independently while also being a strong team player.
-
Address On-Call: Be prepared to discuss your understanding and commitment to on-call responsibilities and your ability to respond promptly.
📝 Enhancement Note: Tailor your responses to emphasize your understanding of the critical nature of cath lab work, your technical proficiency with advanced modalities, and your commitment to patient safety and teamwork. Highlight your proactive approach to learning and problem-solving.
📌 Application Steps
To apply for this Senior Imaging Technologist position:
-
Submit your application through the University of Iowa's Taleo career portal.
-
Upload Required Documents: Ensure your resume and a cover letter are uploaded and marked as "Relevant File" during the application process.
-
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific experience with digital angiography, cath lab procedures, cardiac monitoring equipment, ARRT certification, and BCLS/ACLS. Quantify achievements where possible.
-
Craft Your Cover Letter: Clearly articulate your interest in the UI Heart and Vascular Center, your relevant skills and experience, and your understanding of the role's responsibilities, including on-call duties.
-
Prepare for Interview: Anticipate technical and behavioral questions. Review common cath lab procedures, equipment, and safety protocols. Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method.
-
Research the Organization: Familiarize yourself with the UI Heart and Vascular Center's reputation, services, and the University of Iowa's mission and values.
⚠️ 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.
Application Requirements
Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in Radiologic Technology or an equivalent field and possess at least 6 months of imaging experience. Required certifications include ARRT, an additional radiologic specialty certification, and current Basic and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support.