50%25 Imaging Technologist - Adult Cardiac Cath Lab - UI Heart and Vascular Center

University of Iowa
Full-timeIowa City, United States

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Imaging Technologist - Adult Cardiac Cath Lab

Company: University of Iowa

Location: Iowa City, Iowa, United States

Job Type: Part-time, Regular

Category: Healthcare Operations / Medical Imaging

Date Posted: January 27, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Operate and manage specialized digital angiography imaging equipment for adult cardiac catheterization procedures, requiring independent operation with minimal physician supervision.

  • Provide direct, safe patient care, including monitoring vital signs, utilizing aseptic techniques, and administering contrast materials under supervision.

  • Perform image processing, reconstruction (e.g., 3-D), and data archiving, ensuring quality assurance and system performance.

  • Collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team, including physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, to ensure optimal patient outcomes and efficient workflow.

  • Prepare and administer contrast material to patients under radiologist supervision as required.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is for a part-time (50%) Imaging Technologist in a specialized Adult Cardiac Catheterization Lab. The focus is on hands-on operation of advanced imaging systems, direct patient care during high-acuity procedures, and strong collaboration within a cardiac care team. The "50%25" designation indicates a part-time commitment, likely equating to 20 hours per week, and the emphasis on independent operation and quality assurance points to a need for meticulous attention to detail and technical proficiency.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Perform specialized digital angiography imaging procedures on adult cardiac catheterization patients, ensuring high-quality diagnostic and therapeutic imaging.

  • Independently operate, manipulate, and control complex electronic and computerized imaging systems, including performing quality assurance checks and evaluating system performance.

  • Provide comprehensive patient care throughout the procedure, including establishing rapport, explaining the process, monitoring vital signs, and utilizing aseptic techniques for skin preparation and IV placement.

  • Administer contrast materials to patients under the direct supervision of a radiologist or cardiologist as required by the procedure.

  • Execute proficient image processing, including 3-D reconstruction and reprocessing, and manage computer data archiving for patient records and research projects.

  • Ensure strict adherence to safety precautions to minimize risks to patients, personnel, and equipment, maintaining a safe procedural environment.

  • Plan and manage daily scheduling for the catheterization lab, including regular and STAT procedures, to optimize room utilization and patient flow.

  • Contribute to inventory management, ordering supplies, and maintaining quality assurance standards within the lab.

  • Provide instruction and training to trainees, students, and other medical staff regarding equipment operation, safety protocols, and procedural best practices.

  • Participate in research projects, including phantom studies and animal research, as required by the department.

  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of advancements in specialty imaging and cardiac catheterization techniques through continuous education, professional development, and review of industry publications.

  • Demonstrate professional behavior, flexibility, pride in work, and acceptance of responsibility in all assignments and interactions.

  • Participate in a required night/weekend/holiday on-call rotation, ensuring prompt arrival at UI Health Care within 20-30 minutes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical imaging skills, direct patient care in a critical setting, and operational duties like scheduling and inventory. The emphasis on independent operation, quality assurance, and training suggests a need for candidates who are not only skilled technicians but also proactive team members capable of contributing to the lab's overall efficiency and educational mission. The on-call requirement is a critical aspect of this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

  • Previous imaging technologist experience is required.

  • Experience in an Adult Cardiac Catheterization Lab is strongly preferred.

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

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

Required Skills:

  • Proficiency in operating and manipulating complex digital angiography imaging equipment.

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

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

  • Excellent patient care and communication skills, with the ability to establish rapport and provide clear instructions.

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving skills for dynamic procedural environments.

  • Knowledge of basic and advanced life support (BLS/ACLS) principles and application.

  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a high-performing team.

Preferred Skills:

  • 3 years of experience as an Imaging Technologist, specifically within an Adult Cardiac Catheterization Lab.

  • Experience with electronic health record (EHR) systems, particularly EPIC.

  • Familiarity with spectroscopy and other advanced imaging analysis techniques.

  • Experience in training or mentoring junior staff or students.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize both formal education and practical experience, with a strong preference for direct cardiac cath lab experience. The blend of technical skills, patient care, and critical thinking is crucial. The mention of EPIC suggests familiarity with a common healthcare IT system.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Demonstrate successful operation and troubleshooting of advanced digital angiography imaging systems, showcasing technical proficiency and problem-solving capabilities.

  • Provide examples of patient care scenarios, highlighting aseptic techniques, patient communication, and successful management of patient needs during procedures.

  • Showcase proficiency in image processing and reconstruction, illustrating the ability to produce high-quality, interpretable images.

Process Documentation:

  • Illustrate workflows for patient preparation, procedure execution, and post-procedure data management within a cardiac catheterization setting.

  • Detail processes for maintaining sterile environments and implementing safety precautions to mitigate risks.

  • Document experience with contrast material administration protocols and associated patient monitoring.

  • Showcase experience with record-keeping and archiving of imaging data for diagnostic and research purposes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with imaging systems, patient care protocols, image processing, and quality assurance. Prepare to articulate specific examples of how you've managed complex imaging equipment, ensured patient safety, and contributed to procedural efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

  • As this is a part-time (50%) role, the annual salary would be approximately half of a full-time equivalent (FTE) position. Based on industry benchmarks for Imaging Technologists with 0-2 years of experience in a major academic medical center in Iowa, a full-time salary range could be estimated between $55,000 - $70,000 annually. Therefore, for a 50% position, the estimated salary range would be approximately $27,500 - $35,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage (pro-rated for part-time status).

  • Retirement Savings: Access to retirement savings plans (e.g., IPERS or 403(b)) with potential employer contributions.

  • Paid Time Off: Accrual of vacation, sick leave, and holidays (pro-rated for part-time status).

  • Tuition Assistance: Opportunities for continued education and professional development.

  • Life Insurance: Group life insurance options.

  • Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.

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

Working Hours:

  • This is a part-time position, approximately 20 hours per week (50% FTE).

  • Required participation in night/weekend/holiday on-call assignments, with an expectation of arrival at UI Health Care within 20-30 minutes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on a combination of industry salary data for Imaging Technologists in academic medical centers in the Midwest, factoring in the entry-level experience requirement and the part-time (50%) nature of the role. The sign-on bonus is a significant factor for eligible candidates. Benefits will be pro-rated for part-time employees.

🎯 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 Care system evolving significantly over time.

Team Structure:

  • The Imaging Technologist will be part of the UI Heart and Vascular Center, specifically within the Adult Cardiac Catheterization Lab team.

  • This team operates as a multidisciplinary unit, reporting through clinical leadership within cardiology and potentially radiology/imaging services.

Methodology:

  • The UI Heart and Vascular Center emphasizes evidence-based practice and continuous quality improvement, aligning with U.S. News & World Report's recognition for cardiology and heart surgery.

  • Operations within the lab are driven by patient safety, procedural efficiency, and the application of advanced imaging technologies.

  • There is a focus on patient-centered care, ensuring clear communication and a positive patient experience.

Company Website: https://www.healthcare.uiowa.edu/

📝 Enhancement Note: The University of Iowa Health Care is a large, established academic medical center with a strong reputation. The culture likely emphasizes clinical excellence, research, education, and patient advocacy. The Heart and Vascular Center's high ranking suggests a commitment to cutting-edge care and outcomes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Specialist

Reporting Structure:

  • The Imaging Technologist will typically report to a Lead Imaging Technologist, Cath Lab Manager, or a Director of Cardiovascular Services/Radiology.

Operations Impact:

  • The Imaging Technologist's role is critical for the accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of cardiac conditions. High-quality imaging directly influences clinical decision-making, procedural success rates, and patient recovery.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Specialization: Develop expertise in advanced cardiac imaging techniques, specific device applications, or new technology integration within the cath lab.

  • Clinical Advancement: Progress to senior technologist roles, potentially taking on lead responsibilities, mentoring new staff, or specializing in specific types of procedures.

  • Further Education: Pursue advanced degrees (e.g., Bachelor's in Radiologic Sciences, Master's) or specialized certifications (e.g., RCIS, advanced ARRT certifications) to expand career options within cardiovascular imaging or management.

  • Cross-Training: Opportunities to learn and assist in related areas within the cardiovascular service line.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role provides a strong foundation in a specialized area of healthcare operations. Growth is primarily focused on deepening clinical expertise within the cath lab, with potential pathways into leadership or further specialization through additional education and certifications.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Clinical/Hospital Setting - Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory

Office Location(s): University of Iowa Heart and Vascular Center, Iowa City, Iowa.

Workspace Context:

  • The work environment is a fast-paced, high-pressure clinical setting within a cardiac catheterization laboratory.

  • It involves direct patient contact and requires working closely with a multidisciplinary team in a controlled, sterile environment.

  • Access to state-of-the-art imaging equipment, monitoring systems, and other specialized medical technology is standard.

Work Schedule:

  • Part-time, approximately 20 hours per week.

  • Requires flexibility to cover on-call shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, with a mandated rapid response time to the facility. This on-call component is crucial for the role's operational continuity.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a hands-on, clinical role operating within a specialized medical environment. The part-time nature is balanced by a significant on-call responsibility, requiring flexibility and commitment to patient care availability.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

  • Phone/Video Interview: A preliminary discussion with a hiring manager or HR representative to gauge interest, basic qualifications, and cultural fit.

  • On-site Interview: Typically involves meeting with the hiring manager, lead technologists, and potentially interventional cardiologists or nurses. This stage may include a skills assessment or a discussion of case scenarios.

  • Skills Demonstration/Scenario Discussion: Candidates may be asked to describe how they would handle specific imaging challenges, patient care situations, or equipment operation scenarios.

  • Final Interview: May involve a broader panel or senior leadership discussion.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly required, prepare to discuss your experience with imaging equipment, patient care protocols, and problem-solving in the cath lab.

  • Be ready to articulate specific examples of how you've ensured image quality, managed patient safety, and collaborated with physicians and nurses during procedures.

  • Highlight any experience with contrast administration, image processing, or quality assurance initiatives.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Be ready to discuss scenarios related to:

    • Ensuring patient safety and adhering to aseptic techniques.
    • Troubleshooting imaging equipment issues during a procedure.
    • Communicating effectively with patients and the medical team.
    • Managing time and prioritizing tasks in a high-pressure environment.
    • Your understanding of cardiac catheterization procedures and the technologist's role.
  • Familiarize yourself with the University of Iowa Heart and Vascular Center's reputation and any publicly available information about their cardiac care services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process will likely involve multiple stages focused on assessing technical skills, clinical judgment, and teamwork capabilities. Candidates should prepare to discuss their practical experience and problem-solving approaches in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Imaging Systems:

  • Complex digital angiography imaging equipment (specific vendor/model information not provided, but candidates should be familiar with major brands like GE, Siemens, Philips, Canon Medical).

  • Image acquisition and processing software.

Monitoring & Life Support:

  • Patient vital signs monitoring systems (ECG, blood pressure, SpO2).

  • Defibrillators and basic/advanced life support equipment.

Data Management & EHR:

  • EPIC (preferred for record-keeping, patient charting, and order management).

  • PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) for image storage and retrieval.

Ancillary Equipment:

  • Contrast injection systems.

  • Aspiration/suction devices.

  • Sterile supplies and procedural kits.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with advanced digital angiography systems is paramount. Experience with EPIC is a significant advantage, indicating familiarity with modern healthcare IT infrastructure. Candidates should be comfortable with a range of medical technologies used in a cardiac cath lab environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Patient-Centered Care: Prioritizing patient safety, comfort, and positive outcomes in all actions and decisions.

  • Clinical Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in diagnostic imaging and procedural support, backed by continuous learning and skill development.

  • Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering a supportive and communicative environment where all team members work cohesively towards shared goals.

  • Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding ethical standards, maintaining confidentiality, and demonstrating respect in all interactions.

  • Efficiency & Resourcefulness: Optimizing workflow, managing time effectively, and utilizing resources responsibly to ensure smooth lab operations.

Collaboration Style:

  • The Cardiac Cath Lab operates on a highly collaborative model, requiring seamless communication and coordination between technologists, physicians, and nurses.

  • Expect a culture of mutual respect, shared responsibility for patient care, and proactive problem-solving as a collective unit.

  • Regular team huddles or debriefs may occur to discuss cases and process improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely reflects the demanding yet rewarding nature of critical care. Teamwork, patient focus, and a commitment to excellence are core to success in this environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • High-Pressure Environment: The Cardiac Cath Lab is a dynamic and often high-stress setting, requiring the ability to remain calm and focused during critical events.

  • On-Call Demands: Balancing personal life with frequent and sometimes unpredictable on-call responsibilities, including rapid response requirements.

  • Technical Complexity: Staying current with rapidly evolving imaging technologies, software updates, and specialized procedures.

  • Patient Acuity: Caring for critically ill patients with complex cardiac conditions requires advanced clinical judgment and technical skill.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced Certifications: Opportunities to pursue additional certifications such as Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) or advanced ARRT certifications in cardiac-interventional radiography.

  • Specialized Training: Hands-on training with new equipment, software, and emerging interventional techniques.

  • Continuing Education: Support for attending conferences, workshops, and online courses to maintain and enhance knowledge in cardiovascular imaging and technology.

  • Mentorship: Learning from experienced interventional cardiologists, senior technologists, and nurses within a leading cardiac center.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges due to the critical nature of the work and on-call requirements, but these are offset by substantial opportunities for professional growth and specialization within a highly respected healthcare institution.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a time you had to operate complex imaging equipment under pressure. What was the situation, what did you do, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on technical skill, problem-solving, and composure).

  • "How do you ensure patient safety and adhere to aseptic techniques during invasive procedures?" (Highlight your understanding of protocols and attention to detail).

  • "Walk me through your process for preparing and administering contrast material to a patient undergoing a cardiac cath procedure." (Detail your steps, safety checks, and monitoring).

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "Why are you interested in working for the University of Iowa Heart and Vascular Center, and what do you know about our reputation for cardiology care?" (Show research and alignment with their mission).

  • "Describe your experience working as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team. What is your role in ensuring effective collaboration?" (Emphasize teamwork and communication).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Be prepared to discuss specific imaging equipment you have operated, detailing your experience with its features and functionalities.

  • Share examples of challenging cases where your imaging skills or patient care approach made a significant difference.

  • If you have experience with 3-D reconstruction or image reprocessing, be ready to explain the benefit of these techniques.

  • Discuss your understanding of quality assurance in imaging and how you contribute to maintaining high standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely focus on assessing technical competencies, patient care skills, critical thinking under pressure, and your ability to integrate into a high-performing clinical team. Be ready to provide concrete examples from your experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this part-time Imaging Technologist position:

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

  • Resume & Cover Letter: Upload your resume and a tailored cover letter. Your cover letter should highlight your relevant experience in imaging technology, any specific cardiac cath lab background, your understanding of patient care in critical settings, and your interest in the University of Iowa Heart and Vascular Center.

  • Portfolio Preparation: While not formally submitted, prepare to discuss your experience with digital angiography systems, image processing, patient care protocols, and quality assurance during the interview process. Be ready to provide specific examples.

  • Certification Verification: Ensure your ARRT certification, Iowa State Permit, and BLS/ACLS certifications are current and readily available for verification.

  • On-Call Readiness: Be prepared to discuss your availability and understanding of the on-call requirements, including the expected response time.

⚠️ 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 have completed an approved program in Radiologic Technology and possess relevant certifications. Previous experience in imaging technology, particularly in adult cardiac catheterization, is preferred.