Dual Sonographer - Echo & Vascular Labs - UI Heart and Vascular Center

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Dual Sonographer - Echo & Vascular Labs - UI Heart and Vascular Center

Company: University of Iowa

Location: Iowa City, Iowa, United States

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Healthcare Operations / Clinical Sonography

Date Posted: 2026-06-04

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute comprehensive adult cardiac and vascular ultrasound procedures, encompassing both routine and complex invasive studies, to support diagnostic accuracy and patient care within the UI Heart and Vascular Center.

• Actively participate in the education and mentorship of students, residents, and fellows, sharing expertise in echocardiography and vascular sonography techniques and equipment operation.

• Conduct specialized diagnostic non-invasive vascular testing and assist physicians with invasive procedures, including Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE), ensuring high-quality imaging and patient safety.

• Maintain stringent quality control and equipment calibration standards, contributing to departmental accreditation efforts (e.g., IAC) and adherence to best practices in diagnostic sonography.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is for a specialized clinical position within a healthcare operations setting, focusing on diagnostic imaging. While not a traditional "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" role, it involves critical operational functions within a medical department, requiring precision, adherence to protocols, and collaborative team performance. The "operations" aspect here pertains to the efficient and effective delivery of diagnostic services.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Perform a wide spectrum of adult cardiac and vascular ultrasonography procedures, including two-dimensional echo, M-mode, pulse wave and continuous wave Doppler, color flow Doppler, 3D imaging, Strain imaging, Exercise and Dobutamine Stress Echo studies.

• Conduct specialized diagnostic non-invasive vascular testing of the peripheral arterial, venous, and cerebrovascular circulation.

• Assist cardiologists and vascular surgeons during Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) studies and perform contrast and saline bubble studies as required.

• Ensure the provision and maintenance of high-quality diagnostic adult echocardiographic and vascular exams, adhering to established departmental protocols and standards.

• Perform necessary equipment calibration and sterilization according to standard accepted methods to ensure operational readiness and safety.

• Maintain rigorous quality control in all procedures, aligning with accepted departmental standards and regulatory requirements.

• Recognize and address basic equipment malfunctions, coordinating with appropriate parties for timely resolutions to minimize diagnostic interruptions.

• Provide clear and concise information and instructions to patients, their families, and other stakeholders regarding the nature and process of requested diagnostic procedures.

• Maintain continuous education requirements as specified by the ARDMS (American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers) and IAC (Intersocietal Accreditation Commission).

• Contribute actively to preparation and maintenance for IAC accreditation, ensuring departmental compliance and excellence.

• Instruct Cardiology, Anesthesiology fellows, medical residents, and other students on scanning techniques, proper equipment operation, and diagnostic interpretation.

• Adhere to general policies and procedures in accordance with the regulations of UI Health Care, the College of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, and UI Heart and Vascular Center.

• Participate in policy development and review processes to enhance departmental efficiency and quality of care.

• Function as a preceptor for the orientation of new team members and students, fostering knowledge transfer and skill development.

• Establish and maintain standards of collaborative interaction characterized by respect, honesty, and service among peers and colleagues, ensuring adherence to ethical standards.

• Perform rotating, on-call coverage on weekends (Saturday/Sunday) and University Holidays as assigned, ensuring continuous patient care.

• Provide coverage for the UI Heart and Vascular Center at the Medical Campus University (MCU) and Medical Campus North Liberty (MCNL) as needed or assigned.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support the operational needs of the UI Heart and Vascular Center.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct patient care, technical expertise, educational duties, and operational support within a specialized medical unit. The emphasis on teaching, quality control, accreditation, and policy involvement indicates a role that requires not only strong clinical skills but also a proactive approach to departmental improvement and team development.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Completion of a CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) accredited or equivalent program in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography, or Vascular Technology.

• OR Completion of a two-year or more accredited health science program (e.g., Radiologic Technology, Medical Technology, Nursing) plus completion of a twelve-month formal education program in Sonography.

• OR Completion of a bachelor’s degree plus completion of a twelve-month formal education program in Cardiac Ultrasonography. Experience:

• Demonstrates excellent interpersonal and written/verbal communication skills with patients/families, nursing staff, and other multi-disciplinary team members.

• Must possess a valid driver’s license and meet the University’s Fleet Safety Program requirements. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in performing adult cardiac ultrasound procedures (e.g., 2D echo, M-mode, Doppler, 3D, Strain, Stress Echo).

• Expertise in performing vascular ultrasound procedures for peripheral arterial, venous, and cerebrovascular circulation.

• Ability to assist with invasive procedures, including TEE studies.

• Strong understanding of equipment calibration, sterilization, and quality control protocols.

• Excellent patient communication and instruction skills, ensuring patient comfort and understanding.

• Knowledge of ARDMS and IAC standards for accreditation and continuing education.

• Ability to precept and mentor students, residents, and new team members.

• Proficient in Basic Life Support (BLS) procedures.

• Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration within a multidisciplinary healthcare team.

• Clear and concise written and verbal communication abilities. Preferred Skills:

• Completion of a bachelor’s degree.

• AART (CI) certification (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography - Cardiovascular Interventional).

• Experience in policy development and review within a clinical setting.

• Demonstrated ability in preparing for and maintaining clinical accreditation standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize both formal education in sonography and practical clinical experience. The need for ARDMS certification within a specific timeframe post-hire is a critical requirement, as is the BLS certification. The inclusion of AART (CI) as a desired qualification suggests a potential for advanced interventional procedures or a preference for candidates with broader certification.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case studies demonstrating proficiency in complex adult cardiac and vascular ultrasound procedures, highlighting diagnostic findings and patient outcomes.

• Documentation of experience with various ultrasound modalities, including 2D, M-mode, Doppler, 3D, Strain, and Stress Echo.

• Examples of patient education materials or protocols developed or utilized.

• Evidence of contributions to quality control measures or process improvement initiatives within a clinical imaging department.

• Records of participation in IAC accreditation preparation or maintenance activities. Process Documentation:

• Showcase understanding of standard operating procedures for echocardiography and vascular ultrasound exams.

• Illustrate experience with equipment calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting workflows.

• Detail processes followed for maintaining quality control and adherence to departmental standards.

• Provide examples of how patient communication and instruction protocols are implemented.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "operations portfolio" as seen in IT or business roles might not be standard, candidates are expected to demonstrate their practical experience and understanding of clinical processes through their resume, cover letter, and potentially case discussions during interviews. The portfolio should emphasize clinical competence, adherence to standards, and educational contributions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The salary for this position is not explicitly stated in the job description. However, based on industry standards for a Dual Sonographer with 2-5 years of experience in a major academic medical center in Iowa City, Iowa, the estimated annual salary range is $65,000 - $85,000. This estimate considers factors such as the required certifications (ARDMS, BLS), the specialized nature of cardiac and vascular sonography, and the cost of living in Iowa City.

Benefits:

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

• Free Weekly CME Opportunities: Access to continuous medical education resources to support professional development.

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

• Retirement Savings Plan: Participation in a retirement savings plan (e.g., IPERS for public employees).

• Paid Time Off: Accrual of vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Tuition Assistance: Potential for tuition support for further education.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Coverage options for life and long-term disability.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Support services for personal and work-related challenges.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time, 100% position.

• Standard working hours are not specified but are typically aligned with clinical operational needs, potentially including 8-hour shifts.

• Requires participation in a rotating on-call schedule for weekends and holidays.

• May involve coverage across different campuses (Medical Campus University and Medical Campus North Liberty) as assigned.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for similar roles in the specified region and experience level. Specific salary will be determined by the University of Iowa based on candidate qualifications and internal pay scales. The benefits listed are common for academic medical centers and are inferred based on typical offerings.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare, Academic Medical Center, Cardiovascular Services. The University of Iowa Health Care is a leading academic medical institution, emphasizing patient care, research, and education. This context suggests a culture that values innovation, continuous learning, and high standards of practice.

Company Size: Large. The University of Iowa Health Care employs over 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers, indicating a substantial and complex organizational structure with numerous specialized departments and a wide range of career opportunities.

Founded: The University of Iowa was founded in 1847, with its Health Care component evolving over time into a comprehensive academic medical center. This long history suggests a stable and established institution with a strong commitment to its mission.

Team Structure:

• The UI Heart and Vascular Center likely operates as a specialized department within a larger medical division, possibly Cardiology or Internal Medicine.

• The Sonography team within the HVC will include Sonographers, potentially supervised by a Lead Sonographer or a Clinical Manager.

• Collaboration is expected with Cardiologists, Vascular Surgeons, Fellows, Residents, Nursing Staff, and other allied health professionals.

• The team structure supports both specialized echocardiography and vascular services, with rotation between labs and potential for cross-training. Methodology:

• Diagnostic Accuracy: Emphasis on precise imaging and accurate interpretation of cardiac and vascular ultrasound studies.

• Patient-Centered Care: Focus on providing compassionate and effective care, ensuring patient comfort and understanding throughout procedures.

• Continuous Learning & Education: Commitment to ongoing professional development, teaching, and knowledge sharing with trainees and colleagues.

• Quality Assurance & Accreditation: Strict adherence to quality control standards and active participation in maintaining accreditations (e.g., IAC).

• Team Collaboration: Fostering a respectful and supportive work environment where interdisciplinary teamwork is paramount.

Company Website: https://uihc.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context emphasizes a large, established academic medical institution with a strong focus on patient care, research, and education. This environment typically fosters a culture of high performance, continuous improvement, and opportunities for professional growth within specialized clinical areas.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a Mid-level Clinical Specialist position. It requires a strong foundation of technical skills, practical experience, and the ability to mentor others. It is a critical operational role within the diagnostic imaging department, directly impacting patient care and departmental efficiency.

Reporting Structure: The Dual Sonographer will likely report to a Lead Sonographer, a Sonography Manager, or a Clinical Director within the UI Heart and Vascular Center. They will work collaboratively with physicians (Cardiologists, Vascular Surgeons) and other members of the healthcare team.

Operations Impact: The role's primary impact is on the accurate and timely diagnosis of cardiovascular and vascular conditions, directly influencing patient treatment plans and outcomes. By performing high-quality diagnostic imaging and assisting in procedures, the Sonographer is integral to the operational efficiency and clinical success of the UI Heart and Vascular Center. Their teaching and mentorship also contribute to the long-term operational capacity and skill development of the department.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advanced Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of cardiac or vascular sonography, potentially leading to specialized roles or lead positions.

• Clinical Preceptorship & Training: Developing skills in training and mentoring, potentially advancing into roles with greater educational responsibilities.

• Accreditation & Quality Improvement: Involvement in leading or contributing to accreditation processes and quality improvement initiatives within the department.

• Cross-Training: Opportunity to become proficient in a wider range of cardiac and vascular procedures, increasing versatility and value.

• Leadership Potential: With experience and demonstrated leadership capabilities, potential to move into Lead Sonographer or Supervisory roles within the department.

• Continuing Education: Access to free weekly CME and potential for further certifications (e.g., advanced ARDMS sub-specialties, AART (CI)) to enhance career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid career path within specialized clinical diagnostics. Growth is primarily focused on deepening clinical expertise, developing teaching/mentorship skills, and contributing to departmental operational excellence and accreditation.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site within a leading academic medical center. The work environment is a hospital setting, specifically within the UI Heart and Vascular Center, which includes dedicated echocardiography and vascular labs.

Office Location(s):

• Primary work locations will be the echocardiography and vascular labs at the main medical campus of the University of Iowa.

• Backup coverage may be required at the North Liberty campus. Workspace Context:

• The workspace involves direct patient interaction in a clinical setting, utilizing specialized ultrasound equipment.

• Collaboration is a key aspect, requiring close interaction with physicians, fellows, residents, nurses, and fellow sonographers.

• Access to advanced ultrasound technology and diagnostic tools is standard.

• The environment is fast-paced, requiring efficient workflow management and adherence to strict protocols for patient safety and diagnostic accuracy.

• Opportunities for interaction with students and trainees are integrated into the daily work. Work Schedule:

• Full-time, 100% position.

• Expected to work standard clinical hours, likely 8-hour shifts, though specific schedules may vary.

• Must be available for rotating on-call coverage, including weekends and holidays, as assigned.

• Flexibility to provide coverage at different campus locations may be required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and patient-focused, typical of a high-volume academic medical center. The on-call requirement is a significant operational aspect, ensuring continuous service availability.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit resume and cover letter, marking them as "Relevant Files."

• Initial Screening: HR and/or departmental leadership will review applications for minimum qualifications and relevant experience.

• Phone/Video Interview: A preliminary interview with a hiring manager or recruiter to assess general fit, communication skills, and basic qualifications.

• On-Site Interview: This typically involves:

  • Meeting with the hiring manager and potential team members (Lead Sonographer, fellow Sonographers).
  • Discussion of clinical experience, technical skills, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Assessment of teaching/precepting experience and approach.
  • Review of how candidates handle quality control, accreditation, and procedural challenges.
  • Potential for a skills demonstration or case study discussion related to echocardiography or vascular imaging.

• Final Evaluation: Assessment of overall fit with the team culture, understanding of the role's operational demands, and commitment to continuous learning.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume & Cover Letter: Ensure these documents clearly articulate your experience with adult cardiac and vascular sonography, any teaching or preceptor roles, and familiarity with ARDMS/IAC standards. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "performed X number of studies per week," "trained Y number of students").

• Case Studies (Verbal or Written): Be prepared to discuss specific challenging cases encountered in both cardiac and vascular imaging. Focus on your diagnostic process, the techniques used, the findings, and how your work contributed to patient care. Highlight how you ensured image quality and accuracy.

• Quality & Accreditation: Be ready to discuss your understanding and experience with quality control measures in sonography and your role in preparing for or maintaining IAC accreditation.

• Teaching/Mentorship: If you have preceptor experience, describe your approach to training new sonographers or students, and how you provide constructive feedback.

Challenge Preparation:

• Procedural Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would approach specific diagnostic scenarios (e.g., identifying a complex valvular heart disease, assessing a critical limb ischemia).

• Troubleshooting: Be prepared for questions on how you would handle equipment malfunctions or unusual patient presentations.

• Teamwork & Communication: Prepare examples demonstrating your ability to collaborate effectively with physicians and other healthcare professionals, and how you communicate critical findings.

• Operational Efficiency: Think about how you manage your workflow to ensure timely completion of studies while maintaining high quality, especially during busy periods or on-call shifts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be thorough, assessing not only technical skills but also a candidate's ability to integrate into a team, contribute to education, and uphold high operational standards within a leading healthcare institution.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Ultrasound Machines: Advanced diagnostic ultrasound systems from leading manufacturers (e.g., GE, Philips, Siemens) equipped for both echocardiography and vascular imaging.

• Cardiovascular Ultrasound Software: Specialized software for image acquisition, analysis, and storage, including capabilities for 2D, M-mode, Doppler, 3D, Strain, and Stress Echo.

• Vascular Ultrasound Software: Software for peripheral arterial, venous, and cerebrovascular studies, including spectral Doppler and color imaging analysis.

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

• EMR/EHR (Electronic Medical Record/Electronic Health Record): Systems like Epic or Cerner for accessing patient history, documenting findings, and communicating with the care team.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Departmental Reporting Tools: Internal systems for tracking exam volumes, turnaround times, and quality metrics.

• Accreditation Software/Databases: Tools used for managing data and documentation required for IAC accreditation.

CRM & Automation:

• Scheduling Systems: Software for managing patient appointments and sonographer schedules.

• Workflow Management Tools: Internal systems or processes to ensure efficient patient flow through the labs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with a range of diagnostic ultrasound equipment and associated software is essential. Familiarity with hospital-wide EMR/EHR systems is also critical for seamless integration into patient care workflows.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient-Centricity: Prioritizing patient well-being, comfort, and providing accurate diagnostic information to guide their care.

• Excellence in Diagnostics: Commitment to performing high-quality, accurate, and comprehensive echocardiographic and vascular ultrasound examinations.

• Continuous Learning & Improvement: Encouraging ongoing professional development, staying abreast of new technologies and techniques, and contributing to departmental advancements.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering a supportive environment where all team members work together respectfully and effectively to achieve common goals.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all patient interactions and professional conduct.

• Efficiency & Accuracy: Balancing the need for thoroughness with the operational demand for timely service delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary: Working closely with physicians, fellows, residents, nurses, and other allied health professionals to ensure coordinated patient care.

• Mentorship-Driven: A culture that supports knowledge transfer from experienced sonographers to trainees and new staff members.

• Protocol Adherence: Collaborative effort to follow established departmental protocols and contribute to their refinement.

• Respectful Communication: Open and honest communication is encouraged, with an emphasis on constructive feedback and mutual support.

• Problem-Solving: Team members are expected to collaborate on resolving clinical or operational challenges that arise during patient care or lab operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a strong blend of clinical expertise, patient care, and collaborative team dynamics, characteristic of a high-performing academic medical center.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High Patient Volume & Time Constraints: Managing a demanding schedule of diverse cardiac and vascular studies while maintaining diagnostic quality and timely reporting.

• Complex Cases: Encountering and accurately diagnosing rare or complex cardiac and vascular pathologies that require advanced technical skills and knowledge.

• Equipment & Technology Adaptation: Staying current with rapidly evolving ultrasound technology and adapting to new equipment or software features.

• On-Call Demands: Balancing on-call responsibilities, including weekends and holidays, with personal life and ensuring consistent availability for critical cases.

• Interdepartmental Coordination: Navigating communication and workflow across various departments and campuses to ensure seamless patient care.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Sonography Certifications: Pursuing additional ARDMS specialty certifications (e.g., RVT, FASE) or other relevant credentials.

• Specialized Training: Opportunities for hands-on training or workshops in advanced cardiac imaging techniques (e.g., 3D/4D echo, strain imaging, interventional echo support).

• Accreditation Expertise: Gaining in-depth knowledge and practical experience in preparing for and maintaining IAC accreditation standards.

• Preceptorship Development: Enhancing skills in teaching, mentoring, and potentially taking on a formal preceptor role for sonography students or new hires.

• Clinical Research Support: Potential to assist with clinical research projects involving cardiac or vascular imaging, offering exposure to research methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth within specialized diagnostic imaging, focusing on skill enhancement, educational contributions, and operational excellence in a critical healthcare setting.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience performing both adult cardiac and vascular ultrasound procedures. How do you manage the transition between these different modalities?" (Assesses breadth of skill and adaptability).

• "Walk us through a particularly challenging echocardiogram or vascular study you performed. What were the key findings, and how did your imaging contribute to the patient's diagnosis and treatment?" (Evaluates diagnostic acumen and problem-solving).

• "How do you ensure the quality and accuracy of your diagnostic images, especially when working under pressure or with limited time?" (Focuses on quality control and efficiency).

• "Describe your approach to educating or mentoring students, residents, or new sonographers. What are the key principles of effective clinical instruction?" (Assesses teaching and leadership potential).

• "What is your understanding of IAC accreditation requirements for echocardiography and vascular labs, and how have you contributed to such processes in previous roles?" (Tests knowledge of operational standards and compliance). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working at the University of Iowa Heart and Vascular Center specifically?" (Assesses motivation and research into the institution).

• "How do you see yourself contributing to our team culture of collaboration and continuous learning?" (Evaluates cultural fit and teamwork approach).

• "How do you stay updated with the latest advancements in cardiac and vascular sonography?" (Probes commitment to professional development). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Versatility: Emphasize your dual expertise in both cardiac and vascular sonography, providing specific examples of studies performed in each area.

• Demonstrate Quality: Discuss your adherence to established protocols, quality control measures, and how you ensure diagnostic accuracy. Use examples of challenging cases where your skill made a difference.

• Showcase Teaching Experience: If applicable, present examples of how you have mentored or trained others, highlighting your ability to impart knowledge effectively.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use numbers to illustrate your experience (e.g., number of studies performed weekly, number of students mentored).

• Focus on Impact: Connect your technical skills and procedural execution to the broader impact on patient care and departmental operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating clinical expertise across both cardiac and vascular sonography, a commitment to quality and education, and an understanding of the operational demands within an academic medical setting.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Dual Sonographer position:

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

• Curate Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in both adult cardiac and vascular sonography. Emphasize specific procedures performed, technical skills, and any experience with teaching, precepting, or quality control initiatives. Use keywords from the job description such as "echocardiography," "vascular ultrasound," "Doppler," "TEE," "ARDMS," and "IAC."

• Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to express your specific interest in the UI Heart and Vascular Center and the University of Iowa. Detail why your dual expertise makes you an ideal candidate and how your skills align with the responsibilities, particularly those involving education and quality assurance.

• Prepare for Interview Discussions: Be ready to discuss your clinical experience in detail, including specific cases, your approach to patient care, and your understanding of quality control and accreditation standards. Practice articulating your teaching philosophy and experience.

• Research the Institution: Familiarize yourself with the University of Iowa Health Care's mission, values, and its reputation in cardiovascular care. Understand how the UI Heart and Vascular Center fits into the broader institution.

⚠️ 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.

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