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

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Imaging Technologist - Adult Cardiac Cath Lab

Company: University of Iowa

Location: Iowa City, Iowa, United States

Job Type: Part-time, Regular

Category: Healthcare Operations / Medical Technology

Date Posted: January 27, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Operate advanced digital angiography imaging and physiologic monitoring equipment within a high-acuity cardiac catheterization laboratory.

• Perform critical scrub and circulating duties during diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac procedures, ensuring patient safety and procedural efficiency.

• Facilitate effective handoff reporting and maintain clear communication with patients, families, and multidisciplinary healthcare teams.

• Contribute to the operational excellence of the UI Heart and Vascular Center, recognized as the best heart hospital in Iowa by U.S. News & World Report.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is for a part-time (50%) Senior Imaging Technologist in a specialized Cardiac Cath Lab. The "Senior" title, combined with the 0-2 years experience level, suggests a focus on foundational technical skills and potential for growth rather than extensive leadership experience. The role emphasizes direct patient care and procedural support within a highly regulated and critical medical environment. The inclusion of a sign-on incentive for external candidates highlights the organization's commitment to attracting skilled talent for this specialized role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain sophisticated digital angiography imaging systems and related analysis equipment, including cardiac output computers, oxygen consumption monitors, oximeters, and hemochron machines.

• Administer contrast material to patients using pressure injection systems under the direct order of a cardiologist.

• Prepare and operate the Intra-aortic Balloon Pump as directed by the cardiologist, ensuring proper function and patient monitoring.

• Conduct routine quality control checks and general maintenance on all radiologic equipment to ensure optimal operating condition, and initiate repair requests as needed.

• Perform sterile table setups and post-procedure cleanup, adhering to strict infection control protocols.

• Execute circulating duties, which include comprehensive patient care, administering basic and advanced cardiovascular life support, monitoring vital signs, preparing the procedure site, and accurately leveling pressure transducers.

• Provide orientation and instruction to trainees, students, and other hospital personnel on equipment operation, safety protocols, and procedural standards.

• Support the clinical supervisor with inventory management and supply ordering as required.

• Participate actively in the on-call rotation, demonstrating readiness to respond within 20-30 minutes.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of advancements in radiologic technology and related fields through continuous education, professional meetings, and literature review.

• Adhere to all University of Iowa Health Care, Department of Internal Medicine, and UI Heart and Vascular Center policies and procedures.

• Consistently demonstrate professional behavior, pride in work, and flexibility in assignments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are highly technical and procedure-specific to a cardiac catheterization lab environment. The emphasis on sterile procedures, life support, and equipment operation (including the Intra-aortic Balloon Pump) indicates a need for precise execution and adherence to medical protocols. The "Senior" designation, coupled with the instruction and orientation duties, suggests a mentorship component, even with limited formal experience requirements.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

Experience:

• A minimum of 6 months of experience as an Imaging Technologist is required.

• Direct experience in a Cardiac Catheterization (Cath) or Electrophysiology (EP) setting is strongly preferred.

• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously while effectively collaborating within a multidisciplinary healthcare team is essential.

• Proven excellence in written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills is a requirement.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in operating digital angiography imaging equipment.

• Knowledge and application of sterile techniques for procedural setups and patient care.

• Competency in performing both scrub and circulating duties in a cardiac lab setting.

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

• Strong understanding of patient monitoring and vital sign assessment.

• Excellent patient communication and interpersonal skills for effective care delivery.

• Ability to troubleshoot and maintain radiologic and diagnostic equipment.

Preferred Skills:

• 1 year of imaging technologist experience, with a preference for Cath or EP lab settings.

• Prior experience utilizing electronic medical record (EMR) systems.

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

• Membership in relevant professional societies (e.g., Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography).

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements balance foundational education with specific, hands-on technical experience in a specialized area. The emphasis on communication and teamwork is critical for patient safety in a high-pressure environment. The on-call requirement necessitates geographical proximity and personal commitment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Procedural Case Studies: Document specific diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac procedures performed, highlighting the technologist's role in imaging, patient monitoring, and equipment operation (e.g., contrast delivery, balloon pump assistance). Quantify contributions where possible (e.g., number of procedures assisted, types of imaging sequences performed).

• Equipment Operation & Maintenance: Showcase examples of operating various imaging and analysis equipment. Include documentation of quality control checks, routine maintenance performed, and troubleshooting steps taken for equipment issues.

• Patient Care Protocols: Provide evidence of adhering to sterile procedures, performing vital sign monitoring, and administering life support. Case examples demonstrating effective patient communication and comfort during procedures are valuable.

• Workflow Efficiency: Illustrate instances where contributions improved procedural efficiency, reduced patient wait times, or streamlined supply management within the lab.

Process Documentation:

• Procedural Workflow Design: Demonstrate an understanding of the typical workflow in a cardiac cath lab, from patient preparation and sterile setup to procedure execution, data acquisition, and post-procedure cleanup.

• Quality Assurance & Control: Detail processes followed for equipment calibration, quality control checks, and adherence to safety standards (e.g., radiation safety, infection control).

• Performance Measurement: Explain how key metrics related to imaging quality, procedural efficiency, and patient outcomes are tracked and reported, even if indirectly through team reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is highly technical and patient-facing, candidates are expected to demonstrate an understanding of operational processes. The "portfolio" here would likely be integrated into the resume and cover letter, showcasing specific examples of technical proficiency, adherence to protocols, and contributions to team efficiency. Given the experience level, the focus will be on demonstrating a solid grasp of fundamental processes and a commitment to quality.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Sign-on Incentive: A $10,000 sign-on incentive is available for qualified external candidates (current UI employees are not eligible).

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans tailored for part-time employees, often with prorated benefits.

• Retirement Savings: Access to a retirement savings plan (e.g., 403(b) or 457(b)) with potential employer matching contributions.

• Paid Time Off: Prorated paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays, based on the 50%25 work schedule.

• Continuing Education: Support for continuing education programs, professional development, and certifications relevant to radiologic technology and cardiac care.

• Tuition Assistance: Potential tuition assistance programs for employees pursuing further education.

• Wellness Programs: Access to employee wellness initiatives and resources.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position representing 50%25 of a full-time schedule. Specific daily hours will be determined based on departmental needs and the standard operating hours of the Cardiac Cath Lab. The role includes shared on-call responsibilities, requiring availability outside of standard working hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general industry benchmarks for Imaging Technologists in a similar cost-of-living area and experience bracket, adjusted for a part-time role. Benefits for part-time employees at large institutions like the University of Iowa are typically robust but may be prorated. The sign-on bonus is a significant draw for this specific role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare (Academic Medical Center, Cardiovascular Services)

Company Size: The University of Iowa Health Care employs over 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers, indicating a large, complex, and well-established healthcare system. This size suggests a structured environment with numerous resources and opportunities for professional development.

Founded: The University of Iowa was founded in 1847, and its Health Care system has a long-standing history of providing advanced medical services and research. This established presence signifies stability and a deep-rooted commitment to patient care and medical innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Cardiac Cath Lab team is a highly specialized unit within the UI Heart and Vascular Center, comprising cardiologists, interventional cardiologists, nurses, technologists, and support staff.

• Reporting typically flows through a Clinical Supervisor or Manager, with direct collaboration among peers during procedures.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Patient Care: Procedures and patient management are guided by evidence-based practices, clinical guidelines, and patient outcome data.

• Procedural Efficiency: The lab focuses on optimizing workflow to perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures safely and efficiently, minimizing patient turnaround time.

• Quality Improvement: Continuous efforts are made to enhance patient safety, improve procedural outcomes, and maintain high standards of equipment performance and staff competency.

Company Website: https://uiowa.taleo.net/careersection/2b/jobdetail.ftl?job=26001388&lang=en (This is the job posting URL, a corporate site would be more appropriate for general company info but this link is provided in the input)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company is a major academic medical center, implying a strong emphasis on research, education, and cutting-edge patient care. The "best heart hospital in Iowa" recognition by U.S. News & World Report underscores a commitment to high-quality cardiovascular services and patient outcomes. The team is likely composed of highly skilled professionals dedicated to a specific area of medicine.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This role is positioned as a "Senior Imaging Technologist" with an entry-level experience requirement (0-2 years). This suggests it's an advanced technician role focused on specialized skills rather than a management or lead position. It provides a solid foundation for developing expertise in cardiac imaging and intervention.

Reporting Structure:

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

Operations Impact:

• The technologist's role is critical to the successful execution of diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac procedures, directly impacting patient outcomes and the efficiency of the cardiovascular service line.

• By ensuring accurate imaging, providing essential procedural support, and maintaining equipment, they contribute to the UI Heart and Vascular Center's reputation for excellence and its ability to treat complex cardiac conditions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in adult cardiac catheterization procedures, including interventional techniques, complex imaging modalities, and advanced equipment operation.

• Advanced Certifications: Pursue specialized certifications beyond ARRT and BLS/ACLS, such as CCI (Cardiovascular Credentialing International) certifications relevant to cath lab procedures.

• Leadership Development: With experience, potential to move into roles like Lead Imaging Technologist, Assistant Supervisor, or specialized roles focusing on equipment management, quality assurance, or training.

• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other cardiovascular areas like Electrophysiology (EP) labs or non-invasive cardiology services.

• Further Education: Leverage the academic environment for continued learning, potentially pursuing advanced degrees or specialized training programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title at an entry-level experience band indicates a role that offers significant hands-on learning and skill development opportunities within a specialized field. Growth pathways are likely focused on technical mastery and potentially moving into lead or supervisory roles within the cath lab or related cardiovascular services.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site clinical role within a hospital setting, specifically within the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory.

Office Location(s): Iowa City, Iowa, within the University of Iowa Health Care facilities. This location is part of a major academic medical center.

Workspace Context:

• High-Paced & Collaborative: The Cardiac Cath Lab is a dynamic, fast-paced environment requiring constant interaction and seamless teamwork among cardiologists, nurses, and technologists.

• Technology-Rich: The workspace is equipped with state-of-the-art digital angiography imaging machines, physiologic monitoring systems, hemodynamic recorders, and other specialized medical devices.

• Sterile & Controlled: Strict adherence to sterile field protocols and infection control measures is paramount. The environment is highly controlled to ensure patient safety and procedural integrity.

• On-Call Demands: The role necessitates being available for on-call duties, meaning the work environment extends beyond regular hours to cover emergent patient needs.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time (50%25) position. Specific daily hours will be determined by departmental needs.

• Includes shared on-call responsibilities, requiring flexibility to respond to emergent situations outside of scheduled shifts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is demanding, requiring technical expertise, quick decision-making, and the ability to function effectively under pressure. The collaborative nature of the cath lab is crucial for patient safety and procedural success.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of the submitted resume and cover letter to assess qualifications against the minimum requirements, with particular attention to imaging experience and certifications.

• Technical Interview: Likely conducted by the Clinical Supervisor and/or experienced technologists. This stage will focus on assessing technical knowledge of angiography equipment, cardiac procedures, sterile techniques, and patient care protocols. Expect scenario-based questions.

• Skills Demonstration/Observation: Potentially a practical assessment or observation in a lab setting (if feasible and appropriate) or detailed discussion of past experiences to gauge hands-on competency.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with other members of the cath lab team (nurses, other technologists) to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and fit within the team's dynamics.

• Final Interview: May involve a hiring manager or department leader to discuss career aspirations, commitment to the role, and overall fit within the University of Iowa Health Care system.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: Clearly list all relevant certifications (ARRT, BLS, ACLS) and the Bachelor's degree. Detail any experience in cath labs or related areas, quantifying responsibilities (e.g., "Assisted in X diagnostic/therapeutic procedures per week").

• Cover Letter Strategy: Directly address the requirements, especially the 6 months of imaging experience and preferred cath/EP setting. Highlight your understanding of the "Senior" role's blend of technical skill and potential for mentorship/instruction.

Emphasize your commitment to patient care, safety, and continuous learning.

• Document Specifics: While a formal "portfolio" isn't explicitly requested beyond resume/cover letter, be prepared to discuss specific examples from your experience that demonstrate:

  • Proficiency with imaging equipment.
  • Your role in sterile procedures and patient preparation.
  • Your understanding of hemodynamic monitoring and life support.
  • Any experience with pressure injection systems or intra-aortic balloon pumps.
  • How you ensured quality control and equipment maintenance.
  • Examples of effective patient communication or instruction.

• On-Call Readiness: Explicitly state your ability and willingness to meet the on-call response time requirement.

Challenge Preparation:

• Procedural Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would handle common situations in the cath lab, such as equipment malfunction during a procedure, managing a patient emergency, or ensuring proper sterile technique.

• Technical Knowledge: Review common cardiac procedures (e.g., angiograms, PCI, valve interventions) and the technologist's role in each. Understand basic cardiac anatomy and physiology relevant to these procedures.

• Communication & Teamwork: Prepare examples of how you have collaborated effectively with physicians and nurses, resolved conflicts, or communicated critical information during high-stress situations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes both technical proficiency and the ability to integrate into a demanding, team-oriented clinical environment. While a formal portfolio isn't mandated, candidates must be prepared to articulate their experience and skills through their application documents and interview discussions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Digital Angiography Imaging Systems: Expertise in operating advanced systems for acquiring high-quality cardiac imaging (specific vendors like GE, Siemens,

Philips may be used).

• Physiologic Recorder & Analysis Equipment: Familiarity with systems for monitoring and analyzing patient physiological data, such as:

  • Cardiac Output Computers
  • Oxygen Consumption Monitors
  • Oximeters
  • Hemochron Machines

• Pressure Injection Systems: Experience with systems used for delivering contrast media accurately and safely.

• Intra-aortic Balloon Pump (IABP): Proficiency in operating and monitoring this critical circulatory support device.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Hemodynamic Monitoring Software: Integrated software within the recording systems to analyze pressure waveforms, calculate cardiac output, and track other vital parameters.

• Quality Control Software: Tools associated with imaging equipment for calibration, image quality assessment, and system diagnostics.

CRM & Automation:

• Electronic Medical Records (EMR): Experience with EMR systems (e.g., Epic, Cerner, or specific UI Health Care system) for accessing patient charts, documenting procedures, and managing patient data.

• PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System): Familiarity with systems for storing, retrieving, and viewing medical images.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires hands-on proficiency with specialized medical imaging and monitoring equipment. Knowledge of the specific vendors used by the University of Iowa Health Care would be beneficial, but a strong foundational understanding of the categories listed is essential. Familiarity with EMR systems is crucial for patient data management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patient-Centered Care: A primary focus on providing safe, high-quality care and ensuring the best possible patient experience during procedures.

• Excellence & Innovation: Commitment to maintaining the highest standards in cardiovascular care, reflected in the "best heart hospital" recognition and the academic environment.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Essential for the success of complex procedures; valuing open communication, mutual respect, and shared responsibility among all team members.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding professional standards, ethical conduct, and taking ownership of assigned duties and patient outcomes.

• Continuous Improvement: Dedication to learning, skill enhancement, and contributing to the ongoing refinement of processes and patient care protocols.

Collaboration Style:

• Synergistic Team Approach: Technologists work closely with cardiologists and nurses, functioning as an integral part of the procedural team where roles are clearly defined but interdependence is high.

• Clear Communication: Emphasis on precise, timely, and effective verbal communication, especially during critical moments of a procedure.

• Mutual Respect: A culture that values the expertise of each team member, fostering an environment where contributions are recognized and respected.

• Feedback Loop: Openness to constructive feedback for continuous improvement of both individual performance and team processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at a leading academic medical center like the University of Iowa is likely to be highly professional, research-oriented, and focused on best practices. The cath lab environment, in particular, demands a strong sense of urgency, precision, and cohesive teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High-Pressure Environment: The Cardiac Cath Lab is a critical care setting where rapid decision-making and precise execution are paramount, especially during emergent procedures or equipment issues.

• Complex Equipment Operation: Mastering the intricacies of multiple advanced imaging and monitoring systems requires continuous learning and attention to detail.

• On-Call Demands: Balancing personal life with the requirement to be available for rapid response during on-call shifts can be demanding.

• Patient Acuity: Working with critically ill cardiac patients requires emotional resilience and a high degree of technical skill to manage diverse patient needs and conditions.

• Adapting to New Technologies: Staying current with rapidly evolving imaging technologies and interventional techniques requires ongoing professional development.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to manufacturer training and internal expertise for advanced imaging and device operation.

• Continuing Education: Support for attending conferences, workshops, and pursuing certifications to enhance skills in cardiac imaging and intervention.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced cardiologists, nurses, and senior technologists within the lab.

• Career Advancement: A clear path for growth into more specialized roles, lead positions, or supervisory capacities within the UI Heart and Vascular Center over time.

• Academic Environment: Exposure to research, clinical trials, and innovative treatments offered within a comprehensive academic medical center.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to high-acuity medical environments, emphasizing the need for resilience and continuous learning. The growth opportunities are significant, leveraging the institution's status as a leading academic medical center.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Technical Proficiency: "Describe your experience operating digital angiography systems. What specific imaging protocols have you used?" "Walk me through the steps you take to prepare and operate an Intra-aortic Balloon Pump." "How do you perform quality control checks on imaging equipment?"

  • Preparation: Review technical manuals or online resources for common cath lab equipment. Be prepared to detail specific imaging modalities and their applications. Highlight any experience with contrast injection systems.

• Procedural Knowledge: "Describe your role as a scrub tech and a circulator during a cardiac catheterization procedure." "What are the key hemodynamic parameters you monitor, and why are they important?" "How would you respond if a patient experienced a sudden drop in blood pressure during a procedure?"

  • Preparation: Understand the phases of a cardiac cath procedure. Study basic cardiac anatomy, physiology, and common interventions. Prepare examples of critical thinking and problem-solving in patient care situations.

• Teamwork & Communication: "How do you ensure effective communication with the cardiologist and nursing staff during a high-stress procedure?" "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a difficult team member. How did you resolve the situation?" "How do you handle receiving constructive criticism?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working at the University of Iowa Heart and Vascular Center specifically?" "What do you know about our reputation as the best heart hospital in Iowa?" "How do your personal values align with our commitment to patient-centered care and excellence?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume as Portfolio: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your technical skills, certifications, and any procedural experience. Use action verbs and quantify achievements where possible.

• Cover Letter Narrative: Use the cover letter to weave a narrative about your skills, passion for cardiac care, and suitability for this specific role, addressing the "Senior" aspect and your readiness for on-call duties.

• Verbal Examples: Be ready to elaborate on specific experiences from your resume during the interview. For example, if you mention "equipment maintenance," be prepared to describe a specific instance of troubleshooting or preventative care you performed.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating both technical competence and strong interpersonal skills crucial for a high-stakes clinical environment. Being able to articulate specific examples of your experience and understanding of cath lab operations will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume & Cover Letter Customization: Tailor your resume to prominently feature your Bachelor's degree, ARRT certification, BLS/ACLS certifications, and any direct experience in imaging technology, especially within a cardiac cath or EP lab setting. Craft a cover letter that explicitly addresses the 6 months of required experience, highlights your understanding of the "Senior" technologist role, and confirms your ability to meet the on-call response time.

• Document Upload: Ensure your resume and cover letter are uploaded as "Relevant Files" during the application process.

• Prepare for Technical Discussion: Review common cardiac cath lab procedures, imaging equipment operation (angiography, hemodynamic monitoring), sterile techniques, and patient care protocols. Be ready to discuss your experience with pressure injection systems and intra-aortic balloon pumps.

• Research UI Health Care: Familiarize yourself with the University of Iowa Health Care system, its mission, values, and the specific recognition of the UI Heart and Vascular Center. Understand the importance of teamwork and patient-centered care in this environment.

⚠️ 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.