Sonographer - UI Health Care Urbandale Clinic 50-100%25

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sonographer - UI Health Care Urbandale Clinic

Company: University of Iowa

Location: Urbandale, Iowa, United States

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Healthcare Operations / Diagnostic Imaging

Date Posted: June 15, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute complex diagnostic ultrasonography procedures, including imaging and Doppler, with a focus on pediatric cardiology patients.

• Collaborate directly with interpreting physicians to ensure accurate diagnosis and consult on complex ultrasound findings.

• Maintain stringent quality control and documentation standards for all diagnostic procedures, adhering to departmental protocols.

• Provide direct patient care, including patient education, IV placement, vital sign monitoring, and basic life support.

• Contribute to the educational environment by instructing sonography students and medical residents on equipment operation and procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "50-100%25" in the job title likely refers to the flexibility in hours, indicating a range of 20-40 hours per week. The role emphasizes a patient-centered approach and advanced diagnostic capabilities within a clinical setting.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Perform advanced diagnostic ultrasonography examinations, encompassing both standard imaging and Doppler techniques, with a specialization in pediatric echocardiography.

• Interpret and evaluate ultrasound images for diagnostic quality, consulting with physicians to discuss findings and implications for patient care.

• Document all procedural details, patient information, and findings meticulously, adhering to departmental record-keeping standards.

• Provide comprehensive patient education and instructions regarding the nature of diagnostic procedures, ensuring patient comfort and understanding.

• Administer contrast materials and perform necessary patient care tasks, including skin preparation, IV line insertion, and vital sign monitoring.

• Assist in intraoperative and invasive procedures by providing real-time ultrasound guidance.

• Maintain equipment functionality through calibration, sterilization, and reporting malfunctions for timely repair.

• Uphold departmental quality control measures and adhere to professional certification requirements, such as those set by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).

• Actively participate in educational activities, including the instruction and evaluation of sonography students and medical residents.

• Foster and maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and the public to ensure a collaborative and efficient healthcare environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of advanced technical skills, direct patient interaction, and an active role in the educational and quality assurance aspects of the sonography department. The focus on pediatric cardiology suggests a specialized skill set.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Requires completion of one of the following educational pathways:

  • A CAAHEP-accredited or equivalent program in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography, or Vascular Technology.

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

  • Completion of a bachelor’s degree plus a twelve-month formal education program in Sonography. Experience:

• Registration by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) in at least one specialty area (e.g., Pediatric Echocardiography - PE) is required. (Note: This is not a requirement at the time of application).

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for patient and interdisciplinary team interactions.

• A valid Driver's License and the ability to meet University of Iowa Fleet Safety Standards are required. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in performing complex diagnostic ultrasonography procedures, including imaging and Doppler applications.

• Strong understanding of cardiac anatomy and physiology, particularly in pediatric patients.

• Ability to maintain patient dignity and provide compassionate care throughout diagnostic procedures.

• Skill in patient assessment, including vital sign monitoring and basic life support.

• Competence in equipment operation, calibration, and basic troubleshooting.

• Knowledge of ARDMS certification requirements and ongoing continuing education.

• Effective documentation and record-keeping abilities. Preferred Skills:

• Certification/membership in appropriate professional specialty organizations.

• Demonstrated experience in performing pediatric echocardiograms.

• Proven experience in performing fetal echocardiograms.

• Previous experience in Echo diagnostics.

• Prior experience working with the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, specifically EPIC.

• Previous work experience in a pediatric healthcare setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize formal education in sonography or a related field, coupled with the critical ARDMS certification. The distinction between required at application and required for the role is important. Highly desired qualifications point towards specialized experience in pediatric and fetal echocardiography, which are key differentiators for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case studies showcasing complex pediatric echocardiogram procedures, highlighting diagnostic findings and patient outcomes.

• Examples of workflow optimization initiatives or contributions to protocol development for ultrasound procedures.

• Documentation demonstrating adherence to quality control standards and successful equipment calibration.

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

• Samples of image acquisition quality and diagnostic report examples (anonymized). Process Documentation:

• Demonstrations of an understanding of the complete diagnostic imaging workflow, from patient intake to final reporting.

• Examples of how you ensure diagnostic quality and troubleshoot image artifacts or equipment issues.

• Documentation of how you maintain patient safety and comfort during sonographic examinations.

• Evidence of participation in quality assurance or improvement initiatives within a sonography department.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a portfolio demonstrating expertise in pediatric echocardiography, adherence to quality standards, and patient care protocols would be highly beneficial. Candidates should be prepared to discuss specific cases and their role in diagnostic decision-making.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $61,560 - $111,422 per year (at 100% time, based on years of experience). This range is an estimate for full-time employment and will be prorated for the specified 50-100% time (20-40 hours per week) commitment.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive fringe benefit package.

• Paid vacation and sick leave.

• Health insurance options.

• Dental insurance options.

• Life insurance options.

• Disability insurance options.

• Generous employer contributions into retirement plans (double-match retirement mentioned).

• Access to resources and information on "Why Iowa?" (e.g., work-life balance, community resources). Working Hours:

• 50-100% Time (20-40 hours per week).

• Schedule: Monday - Friday, variable hours between 7:30 am - 5:30 pm.

• No weekends, no on-call duties, and no holidays.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is for 100% time and will be adjusted based on the actual percentage of time worked (20-40 hours/week). The university offers a robust benefits package, including significant retirement contributions, which is a strong incentive for long-term employees. The predictable schedule with no weekends or holidays is a significant advantage.

🎯 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, establishing a long history of education and healthcare.

Team Structure:

• The Sonographer will be part of the University of Iowa Community Clinics, specifically supporting the Urbandale Clinic.

• There is a clear reporting structure within the clinic, with potential for collaboration across different patient specialties and outreach clinics.

• The role involves interaction with faculty, staff, students, and medical residents, indicating a teaching hospital environment. Methodology:

• Emphasis on patient-centered care and advanced diagnostic procedures.

• Commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery, education, and research.

• Strong focus on collaboration, accountability, respect, and empowerment, as per the WECARE Core Values.

• Utilization of advanced imaging technologies and adherence to professional standards.

Company Website: https://uiowa.taleo.net/careersection/2b/jobdetail.ftl?job=26003394&lang=en

📝 Enhancement Note: The University of Iowa Health Care is a large, established academic medical institution. The WECARE Core Values (Welcoming, Excellence, Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, Empowerment) are central to the organizational culture and should be considered by applicants. The role is embedded within a clinic but connected to the broader university's mission.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an advanced practitioner within Diagnostic Imaging. It involves complex procedures, independent judgment, and a degree of leadership in educational aspects and special projects. It is suitable for a Sonographer with 2-5 years of experience, particularly those seeking to specialize.

Reporting Structure: The Sonographer will report to clinic leadership within the University of Iowa Community Clinics. They will also work collaboratively with interpreting physicians, other healthcare professionals, and potentially educational supervisors for students and residents.

Operations Impact:

• Directly impacts patient diagnosis and treatment planning through high-quality imaging services.

• Contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of the cardiology and pediatric clinics by providing timely and accurate diagnostic information.

• Plays a role in the development and refinement of sonography protocols and quality assurance.

• Influences the next generation of sonographers and medical professionals through education and mentorship. Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in pediatric and fetal echocardiography, potentially leading to advanced certifications or roles.

• Leadership: Potential to take on lead technologist roles, participate in protocol development, or lead special projects within the department.

• Education: Develop skills in teaching and mentoring, contributing to the academic mission of the university.

• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other ultrasound specialties or clinics within the UI Health Care system.

• Professional Development: Access to university-provided training, workshops, and potential support for continuing education to maintain certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for specialization in pediatric cardiology, which is a high-demand area. The academic setting provides unique opportunities for involvement in education and research, contributing to broader professional development beyond core technical skills.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Clinical Clinic Setting within the University of Iowa Health Care system. The Urbandale Clinic will be the primary work location, with potential for floating to other specialties/outreach clinics.

Office Location(s): Urbandale, Iowa, with potential float opportunities to other clinics in the Des Moines metropolitan area or Iowa City.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will involve a dedicated ultrasound suite equipped with advanced diagnostic imaging technology.

• Collaboration will be frequent with physicians, nurses, other sonographers, and students within the clinic.

• The environment requires a high degree of focus and precision due to the nature of diagnostic imaging.

• Access to a comprehensive Electronic Health Record (EHR) system (EPIC) is expected. Work Schedule:

• Predictable Monday-Friday schedule, with variable hours between 7:30 am and 5:30 pm.

• No weekend work, on-call duties, or holiday coverage, promoting a strong work-life balance.

• The position offers flexibility in hours, ranging from 20 to 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Urbandale clinic setting provides a focused clinical environment. The flexibility in hours (20-40 per week) is a significant benefit, allowing for various work-life integration needs. The absence of weekends and holidays is a major plus for work-life balance.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and cover letter for required and desired qualifications.

• Phone/Video Interview: Discussion with the hiring manager (Shaye Short) to assess qualifications, experience, and cultural fit. This may include an overview of the role and team.

• On-Site Interview/Practical Assessment: This may involve a tour of the clinic, meeting potential team members, and possibly a practical demonstration or discussion of case studies. Candidates may be asked to discuss their approach to complex pediatric echocardiograms or demonstrate their understanding of diagnostic quality.

• Final Interview: Potential interview with higher-level management or key stakeholders.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Specialization: Focus on your experience with pediatric and fetal echocardiography. Provide specific examples of challenging cases you've managed and the diagnostic outcomes.

• Demonstrate Quality: Showcase images that exemplify high diagnostic quality. Explain your process for ensuring image accuracy and completeness.

• Process Orientation: Detail your workflow for patient preparation, scanning, and documentation. Explain how you ensure adherence to protocols and quality control.

• EPIC Proficiency: If you have EPIC experience, highlight specific functionalities you used for patient charting, image management, or reporting.

• Educational Contributions: If applicable, include examples of your experience instructing students or residents, or contributing to protocol development.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss common anomalies or complex cardiac conditions in pediatric patients and how you would approach imaging them.

• Review standard diagnostic protocols for echocardiography and be ready to discuss variations or challenges.

• Consider how you handle difficult patient interactions or situations during diagnostic procedures.

• Prepare to articulate your understanding of ARDMS certification requirements and your commitment to ongoing professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes a thorough assessment of technical skills, specialized experience (pediatric echo), and cultural fit. A well-curated portfolio and preparedness for case-based discussions will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Ultrasound Machines: Advanced diagnostic ultrasound equipment, likely from leading manufacturers (e.g., GE, Philips, Siemens, Canon Medical). Familiarity with various transducer types and settings for cardiac imaging is crucial.

• Doppler Imaging Systems: Integrated Doppler capabilities for assessing blood flow velocity and direction.

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

• Electronic Health Record (EHR): Specifically EPIC, for patient charting, scheduling, order entry, and documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analyst role, understanding how imaging data contributes to departmental reporting and quality metrics is important.

• Familiarity with systems used for tracking exam volumes, turnaround times, and quality assurance reports. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable in the traditional sense for this role, but efficient use of the EHR (EPIC) for workflow automation (e.g., automated charting prompts, scheduling tools) is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment and a strong command of the EPIC EHR system are essential. Understanding PACS is also critical for image management and retrieval.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Welcoming: Employees are expected to foster an inclusive environment where all patients and colleagues feel heard, respected, and able to thrive.

• Excellence: A commitment to achieving and delivering the best possible outcomes in patient care, education, and research.

• Collaboration: Encouraging teamwork across departments and with external healthcare partners, guided by compassion.

• Accountability: Acting with integrity, taking responsibility for actions, and responding constructively to errors.

• Respect: Creating a safe and valued environment for all members of the community.

• Empowerment: Supporting fair access to healthcare and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Collaboration Style:

• The role requires strong collaborative skills with physicians, nurses, other sonographers, students, and residents.

• Open communication and a proactive approach to sharing information and seeking input are valued.

• A commitment to a team-based approach to patient care is expected.

• The academic environment encourages knowledge sharing and continuous learning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The WECARE values are deeply integrated into the University of Iowa's culture. Candidates should demonstrate how their personal values and work style align with these principles, particularly in areas of patient care, teamwork, and professional conduct.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Pediatric Cases: Managing and imaging a wide range of complex pediatric cardiac conditions, requiring advanced technical skills and adaptability.

• Floating Between Clinics: Adapting to different clinic environments, patient populations, and potentially varying equipment setups if required to float.

• Maintaining High Standards: Consistently delivering diagnostic-quality images and accurate reports under pressure, while adhering to strict university protocols.

• Technological Advancements: Keeping pace with evolving ultrasound technology and diagnostic techniques in cardiology.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to advanced training in pediatric and fetal echocardiography.

• Continuing Education: Support for maintaining ARDMS certifications and pursuing further professional development through workshops, conferences, or online courses.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced sonographers and cardiology specialists within the UI Health Care system.

• Career Advancement: Potential to move into Lead Sonographer roles, specialized imaging positions, or educational capacities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are primarily technical and clinical, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptability. The growth opportunities are significant, particularly for those aiming to become experts in pediatric cardiology sonography within a respected academic institution.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a particularly complex pediatric echocardiogram you performed. What were the challenges, how did you approach them, and what was the diagnostic outcome?"

• "How do you ensure diagnostic quality in your ultrasound images, especially when dealing with challenging pediatric anatomy or patient movement?"

• "Discuss your experience with Doppler imaging. How do you optimize settings to accurately assess cardiac blood flow?"

• "How do you stay current with advancements in diagnostic medical sonography and echocardiography?"

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate closely with a physician to interpret a challenging ultrasound finding. What was your role?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about the University of Iowa Health Care's mission and values (WECARE)? How do you see yourself embodying these values in your daily work?"

• "Why are you interested in working specifically with pediatric cardiology patients?"

• "How do you contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment?"

• "What are your expectations regarding work-life balance, given our Monday-Friday schedule?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Visuals are Key: Prepare anonymized image examples of your best work, particularly pediatric cardiac scans. Use them to illustrate your technical proficiency and diagnostic acumen.

• Storytelling: For each case study, frame it as a narrative: the patient's situation, your role, the technical challenges, your approach, and the resulting diagnosis/impact.

• Metrics & Impact: Quantify your contributions where possible (e.g., "contributed to reducing exam time by X%," or "identified key findings that led to Y diagnosis").

• Process Walkthrough: Be ready to walk through your typical workflow for a pediatric echocardiogram, explaining your thought process at each stage.

• Tool Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your experience with specific ultrasound equipment and the EPIC EHR system.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will likely focus on your technical expertise in pediatric echocardiography, your understanding of diagnostic quality, your ability to problem-solve, and your alignment with the WECARE values. Demonstrating both technical skill and a patient-centered, collaborative approach will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Sonographer position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in diagnostic medical sonography, specifically echocardiography and pediatric imaging. Use keywords from the job description such as "pediatric echocardiography," "Doppler," "ARDMS," and "EPIC."

• Cover Letter Crafting: Write a plain text cover letter that directly addresses how you meet each of the required and highly desired qualifications. Be specific about your experience with pediatric patients and your ARDMS certifications.

• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a portfolio that includes anonymized examples of your best work, focusing on pediatric cardiac scans. Be ready to discuss your process, diagnostic approach, and any contributions to quality improvement or education.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the University of Iowa Health Care's mission, WECARE values, and their commitment to patient care and education. Understand the significance of working within an academic medical center.

• Interview Practice: Prepare for common interview questions related to sonography techniques, pediatric cardiology, patient care, and teamwork. Practice articulating your experience and qualifications clearly and concisely.

⚠️ 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.