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 (Radiologic Technology/Cardiac Imaging)

Date Posted: April 08, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for the operational excellence of the UI Heart and Vascular Center, focusing on specialized imaging procedures within the Adult Cardiac Catheterization Lab.

• The Imaging Technologist will independently operate complex digital angiography equipment, requiring a high degree of technical proficiency and patient care expertise.

• Responsibilities include direct patient care, procedural support, and ensuring the highest standards of imaging quality and patient safety.

• This position demands a proactive approach to workflow management, quality assurance, and continuous learning in a fast-paced, critical care environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within a high-acuity healthcare setting, emphasizing specialized technical skills in cardiac imaging and direct patient interaction, which differentiates it from general imaging technologist roles. The focus on independent operation and quality assurance aligns it with operational efficiency goals within a specialized medical department.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Perform specialized digital angiography imaging procedures with independent operation of complex electronic and computerized imaging equipment under minimal physician supervision.

• Provide direct, safe patient care to patients undergoing diagnostic and therapeutic adult cardiac catheterization procedures, including vital sign monitoring and basic/advanced life support.

• Utilize and maintain aseptic techniques for patient care, including skin preparation and IV placement.

• Manage and control imaging system components to produce high-quality patient examinations and support research projects, including image processing (e.g., 3-D reconstruction, reprocessing) and non-imaging functions (e.g., spectroscopy).

• Administer contrast materials to patients under radiologist supervision and maintain accurate records of examinations and archived computer data.

• Implement appropriate safety precautions to minimize risks to patients, personnel, and equipment, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards.

• Plan daily regular and STAT scheduling to optimize room utilization and contribute to efficient departmental operations.

• Assist with inventory management, ordering supplies, and maintaining quality assurance within the cardiac catheterization lab.

• Provide instruction and training to trainees, students, and other medical staff on imaging operation and safety protocols.

• Participate in research initiatives, including phantom and/or animal studies, as required.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of advancements in specialty imaging and related fields through continuous education and professional development.

• Actively participate in night, weekend, and holiday on-call assignments, ensuring rapid response to the facility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The duties listed emphasize a blend of technical imaging expertise, direct patient care responsibilities, and operational management within a specialized cardiac lab. The requirement for independent operation and the scope of duties suggest a senior or highly proficient technologist role, demanding strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

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

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

• Demonstrated history of positive and professional interactions with patients, families, and healthcare staff across various communication channels.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Digital Angiography and specialized imaging equipment operation.

• Expertise in Adult Cardiac Catheterization procedures and patient management.

• Strong understanding and application of aseptic techniques and patient safety protocols.

• Competency in vital sign monitoring, recording, and basic/advanced life support (BLS/ACLS).

• Ability to perform image processing, including 3-D reconstruction and spectroscopy.

• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills for independent operation.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for patient and team interaction.

• Proficiency in managing daily scheduling and room utilization.

Preferred Skills:

• 3 years of dedicated imaging technologist experience in an Adult Cardiac Catheterization setting.

• Previous experience with the EPIC Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.

• Experience with advanced imaging modalities and research participation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications highlight a need for specialized clinical experience in cardiac imaging, complemented by strong soft skills in patient care and teamwork. The preference for specific experience and EHR proficiency points towards a desire for candidates who can integrate quickly and contribute at a high level from the outset.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate case studies showcasing successful management of complex adult cardiac catheterization procedures, highlighting the technologist's role in imaging acquisition and patient care.

• Provide examples of quality assurance initiatives or process improvements implemented to enhance imaging quality, patient safety, or procedural efficiency within a cath lab setting.

• Illustrate experience with operating and troubleshooting advanced digital angiography and imaging systems, detailing specific equipment and software utilized.

Process Documentation:

• Detail workflows for patient preparation, procedure execution, and post-procedure care within the cardiac cath lab, emphasizing adherence to aseptic techniques and safety protocols.

• Explain processes for image acquisition, manipulation, reconstruction (e.g., 3-D), and data archiving, including quality control measures.

• Describe methods for monitoring patient status during procedures, including vital signs and response to interventions, and how this information is integrated into patient records.

• Outline the process for managing on-call responsibilities, including response times, communication protocols, and readiness for STAT procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly requested, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of skills in a clinical setting is highly recommended for specialized roles like this. The emphasis would be on showcasing procedural competence, quality improvement contributions, and system proficiency relevant to cardiac imaging.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Sign-on Incentive: A $10,000 sign-on incentive is available for eligible external candidates.

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Includes medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Retirement Plan: Access to the university's retirement savings plan.

• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off (PTO), holidays, and sick leave.

• Continuing Education: Opportunities and potential support for continuing education, certifications, and professional development.

• Tuition Assistance: Potential for tuition benefits for employees and dependents.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-sponsored life and disability insurance policies.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.

Working Hours:

• 4 x 10-hour Day shifts per week, with a rotating day off (Monday - Friday schedule).

• Required participation in night, weekend, and holiday on-call assignments, necessitating prompt arrival at UI Health Care (within 20-30 minutes).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general healthcare industry benchmarks for similar roles in the Midwest region and the specified experience level. The sign-on incentive is a significant draw. The on-call requirement is a key aspect of the work schedule and compensation structure.

🎯 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, with its health sciences colleges developing over subsequent decades, establishing a long-standing reputation for medical education, research, and patient care.

Team Structure:

• The UI Heart and Vascular Center is a specialized department within a large academic medical institution, likely comprising multiple cardiac catheterization labs.

• The operations team within the cath lab will likely include physicians (cardiologists, interventional cardiologists), fellow physicians, registered nurses, radiologic technologists, cardiovascular technologists, and administrative support staff.

Methodology:

• The department adheres to evidence-based practices and clinical guidelines established by national cardiology and radiology organizations.

• Emphasis is placed on data-driven decision-making for patient care, procedural outcomes, and operational efficiency, as evidenced by the U.S. News & World Report recognition.

• Continuous quality improvement (CQI) processes are integral, likely involving regular review of performance metrics, patient safety incidents, and procedural outcomes.

Company Website: https://uiowa.edu/ and https://uihc.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: As part of a leading academic medical center, the culture likely emphasizes excellence in patient care, advanced medical research, and comprehensive education. This environment fosters a collaborative, team-oriented approach to complex medical procedures.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a skilled Technologist, requiring specialized clinical expertise and the ability to work independently. It represents a mid-level to senior position within the technical imaging staff of the cardiac cath lab.

Reporting Structure: The Imaging Technologist will report to a Lead Imaging Technologist, Cath Lab Supervisor, or Nurse Manager within the UI Heart and Vascular Center. They will work collaboratively with interventional cardiologists, fellows, registered nurses, and other allied health professionals.

Operations Impact: The technologist's role is crucial for the effective and efficient operation of the cardiac catheterization lab. By performing high-quality imaging and providing direct patient care, they directly contribute to accurate diagnoses, successful interventions, positive patient outcomes, and the overall reputation of the UI Heart and Vascular Center as a top-tier facility. Their ability to manage complex equipment and workflows ensures that procedures are completed safely and on schedule, maximizing resource utilization.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific cardiac imaging techniques or interventional procedures.

• Leadership Development: Potential to advance into Lead Technologist or Supervisor roles, mentoring junior staff and managing daily operations.

• Further Education/Certification: Support for pursuing advanced certifications (e.g., RCIS - Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist) or degrees in related fields.

• Research Participation: Involvement in clinical research projects, contributing to the advancement of cardiac care.

• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other related cardiovascular imaging areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth within this role at an academic medical center often involves a combination of clinical mastery, leadership potential, and engagement with research and education, aligning with the institution's tripartite mission.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Clinical/Hospital Setting (Adult Cardiac Catheterization Lab).

Office Location(s): University of Iowa Health Care campus in Iowa City, Iowa. Specific lab locations within the UI Heart and Vascular Center.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is a highly specialized, fast-paced clinical laboratory setting requiring close collaboration with a multidisciplinary team.

• Access to state-of-the-art digital angiography equipment, imaging systems, patient monitoring devices, and associated technology is standard.

Work Schedule:

• The schedule includes 4 x 10-hour Day shifts with a rotating day off, providing a structured work week.

• A critical component is the mandatory participation in night, weekend, and holiday on-call assignments, requiring rapid response to the facility. This ensures 24/7 coverage for emergent cardiac procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: The clinical environment demands adaptability, precision, and strong teamwork. The on-call component is a significant factor in the work-life balance and operational coverage strategy for the department.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review for minimum qualifications (education, certification, experience).

• Phone/Video Interview: Conducted by HR or a hiring manager to assess general fit, motivation, and basic qualifications.

• On-Site Interview/Practical Assessment: May involve interviews with the hiring manager, lead technologist, and team members. This stage could include a technical assessment or scenario-based questions related to cardiac cath lab procedures, imaging operation, and patient care. A review of the candidate's resume and any submitted portfolio materials will likely occur here.

• Final Interview: Potentially with department leadership to discuss culture fit and long-term career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Highlight specific contributions to patient care, procedural success, or operational improvements. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "reduced procedure time by X%", "improved image clarity by Y%").

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Include examples of complex imaging techniques performed, equipment operated, and troubleshooting scenarios resolved.

• Demonstrate Procedural Knowledge: Detail your understanding of aseptic techniques, patient monitoring, and emergency response protocols within a cardiac cath lab context.

• Highlight Collaboration: Provide examples of effective teamwork and communication with physicians, nurses, and other staff.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience directly relevant to adult cardiac catheterization and digital angiography.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss specific scenarios related to patient care in the cath lab, such as managing complications, handling difficult patients, or responding to emergencies.

• Anticipate questions about your experience with different types of cardiac procedures and the imaging protocols used.

• Practice articulating your approach to quality assurance, safety checks, and equipment maintenance.

• Be ready to explain your understanding of the UI Heart and Vascular Center's mission and how your skills align with their recognized excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio may not be explicitly required, candidates should prepare to discuss their experience and achievements in detail, using their resume and cover letter as a guide. Demonstrating a strong understanding of clinical operations, patient safety, and technical expertise will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Digital Angiography Systems: Expertise with advanced systems (e.g., GE Innova, Siemens Artis, Philips Allura) for acquiring and manipulating high-resolution cardiac imaging.

• Cardiac Catheterization Lab Equipment: Proficiency with hemodynamic monitoring systems, pacing equipment, contrast injectors, and ancillary procedural tools.

• Patient Monitoring Systems: Experience with ECG, blood pressure, pulse oximetry, and potentially invasive monitoring devices.

• PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System): For image storage, retrieval, and distribution.

Analytics & Reporting:

• EPIC EHR: As a preferred qualification, experience with EPIC for patient charting, order entry, and data retrieval is highly valuable.

• Internal Reporting Tools: Familiarity with departmental systems for tracking procedure volumes, quality metrics, and equipment performance.

CRM & Automation:

• Scheduling Software: For managing daily procedures and on-call assignments.

• Inventory Management Systems: For tracking supplies and facilitating ordering.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specific digital angiography systems used in leading cardiac cath labs is essential. Experience with EPIC is a significant advantage given its widespread use in large healthcare systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient-Centered Care: A core value focused on providing safe, compassionate, and high-quality care to every patient.

• Excellence & Innovation: Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of clinical practice, embracing new technologies, and contributing to advancements in cardiac care, as recognized by U.S. News & World Report.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Emphasis on effective communication and cooperation among all members of the multidisciplinary team to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards, taking responsibility for actions, and ensuring transparency in all aspects of work.

• Continuous Learning: Dedication to ongoing professional development, staying current with medical advancements, and sharing knowledge within the team.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, requiring seamless interaction between technologists, physicians, nurses, and support staff during procedures.

• Open communication and mutual respect are expected, fostering an environment where feedback is shared constructively to improve patient care and operational efficiency.

• Team members are expected to support each other, particularly during high-pressure situations and on-call duties.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at an institution like the University of Iowa Health Care is typically driven by a mission of service, education, and research, influencing how teams operate and value collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High-Stress Environment: The cardiac cath lab is a critical care setting where rapid decision-making and precise execution are paramount, especially during emergencies or STAT procedures.

• Complex Technology: Staying current with rapidly evolving imaging technology and equipment requires continuous learning and adaptation.

• On-Call Demands: Balancing personal life with frequent night, weekend, and holiday on-call responsibilities, including the requirement for rapid physical response to the facility.

• Patient Acuity: Managing care for critically ill patients with complex cardiac conditions.

• Interdisciplinary Dynamics: Navigating communication and workflow across diverse professional roles within a high-pressure environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Certifications: Opportunities to pursue certifications such as Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) or advanced ARRT certifications.

• Specialized Training: Access to manufacturer training for new imaging equipment and specialized procedural techniques.

• Continuing Education: Support for attending conferences, workshops, and online courses relevant to cardiac imaging and interventional cardiology.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced colleagues and potentially mentor new staff.

• Research Involvement: Participation in clinical trials and research projects, contributing to medical advancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a high-acuity specialized medical role, while the growth opportunities are significant, leveraging the resources of a major academic medical center.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex adult cardiac catheterization procedure you assisted with. What was your role, and what challenges did you overcome?" (Focus on technical skills, problem-solving, and teamwork.)

• "How do you ensure patient safety and adhere to aseptic techniques in a high-pressure environment like the cath lab?" (Highlight your understanding of protocols and attention to detail.)

• "Discuss your experience with digital angiography equipment. Which systems are you proficient with, and how do you stay updated on new technology?" (Showcase technical expertise and commitment to continuous learning.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for the University of Iowa Heart and Vascular Center, especially given its recognition by U.S. News & World Report?" (Research the hospital's reputation, mission, and values.)

• "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you contribute to a collaborative and positive work culture?" (Align your response with the emphasis on teamwork and patient-centered care.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume as a Guide: Be prepared to walk through your resume, elaborating on key responsibilities, achievements, and technical skills relevant to the cardiac cath lab.

• Case Study Approach: If discussing specific procedures, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.

• Highlight Key Skills: Emphasize your proficiency with digital angiography, patient monitoring, aseptic techniques, and any experience with EPIC or specific cath lab equipment.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Be ready with examples of how you've identified and resolved technical issues or patient care challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical competence but also a strong understanding of patient safety, teamwork, and alignment with the institution's commitment to excellence.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Imaging Technologist position:

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

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience in adult cardiac catheterization, digital angiography, patient monitoring, and aseptic techniques. Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Cover Letter Focus: Craft a compelling cover letter that articulates your passion for cardiac imaging, your understanding of the UI Heart and Vascular Center's reputation, and how your skills and experience align with the role's requirements, especially regarding independent operation and patient care.

• Portfolio Preparation: While not formally submitted, be ready to discuss specific case examples, technical challenges you've overcome, and quality improvements you've contributed to during the interview process.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research the University of Iowa Health Care system, the UI Heart and Vascular Center's accolades (especially U.S. News & World Report rankings), and their mission/values to articulate your fit and enthusiasm.

⚠️ 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.