Sonographer - UI Health Care Urbandale Clinic 50%25

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sonographer - UI Health Care Urbandale Clinic (50%)

Company: University of Iowa

Location: Urbandale, Iowa, United States (with potential to float to Iowa City and Des Moines clinics)

Job Type: Part-time, Regular

Category: Healthcare Operations - Diagnostic Imaging

Date Posted: August 13, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute complex diagnostic ultrasonography procedures, focusing on pediatric and adult echocardiography, to support physician-led patient diagnosis and treatment planning.

• Operate and maintain advanced ultrasound equipment, ensuring high-quality imaging and Doppler studies.

• Contribute to the educational development of sonography students and medical residents through instruction and guidance on equipment operation.

• Uphold stringent quality control standards and departmental protocols for all diagnostic imaging procedures.

• Provide direct patient care, including patient preparation, vital sign monitoring, and basic life support, while ensuring a welcoming and respectful patient experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "50%" designation indicates a part-time role requiring 20 hours per week. While the primary location is Urbandale, the description mentions potential floating to other clinic locations, suggesting a need for flexibility and adaptability within the Iowa City/Des Moines metropolitan area. The emphasis on "patient centered" and "exceptional care" points towards a strong focus on patient experience and outcomes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Perform a comprehensive range of complex diagnostic ultrasonography procedures, including advanced imaging and Doppler studies, with a specialization in cardiology patients.

• Collaborate closely with interpreting physicians to discuss ultrasound exam findings and contribute to diagnostic interpretations.

• Meticulously document all exam information in accordance with departmental standards and regulatory requirements.

• Evaluate the quality of ultrasound images to ensure diagnostic adequacy and adherence to best practices.

• Provide ultrasound guidance and assistance during intraoperative and other invasive procedures as needed.

• Educate patients and their families about the nature of requested diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedures, ensuring informed consent and comfort.

• Administer patient care, including skin preparation, IV placement, vital sign monitoring, and basic life support, as well as preparing and administering contrast materials.

• Foster and maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and the public to ensure seamless clinic operations.

• Instruct and evaluate sonography students and medical residents on the proper operation of diagnostic equipment and imaging techniques.

• Implement and maintain quality control measures within the ultrasound section, adhering to accepted departmental standards.

• Identify and report equipment malfunctions, coordinating with repair services to ensure minimal disruption to patient care.

• Perform routine equipment calibration and sterilization according to standard operating procedures.

• Maintain current certifications as specified by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct patient care, technical expertise, educational involvement, and quality assurance. The need to "develop scanning protocols" and "participate in special projects" suggests opportunities for process improvement and leadership involvement beyond standard scanning duties. The mention of "cardiology patients" and "pediatric patients" indicates a specialized focus within diagnostic imaging.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Requires completion of one of the following educational pathways:

  • 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:

• Requires registration by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) in at least one specialty area (e.g., Pediatric Echocardiography (PE)). Registration is not required at the time of application but is expected.

• Demonstrated experience in performing pediatric echocardiograms and fetal echocardiograms is highly desired.

• Previous experience in general Echo procedures is desired. Required Skills:

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

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

• Skill in patient care, including vital sign monitoring, IV placement, and basic life support.

• Ability to operate and maintain ultrasound equipment, including calibration and sterilization.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for patient interaction, physician consultation, and inter-departmental collaboration.

• Knowledge of ARDMS certification requirements and commitment to maintaining professional credentials.

• Ability to meet University of Iowa Fleet Safety Standards, implying the need for a valid driver's license. Preferred Skills:

• Certification/membership in appropriate professional specialty organizations.

• Experience with Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems, specifically EPIC.

• Prior work experience in a pediatric healthcare setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for ARDMS registration, even if not immediately required, signifies a high standard for professional competency. The distinction between "Highly Desired Qualification" and "Desired Qualifications" suggests a prioritization of skills, with pediatric and fetal echocardiography experience being particularly valuable. The mention of EPIC experience is critical for candidates familiar with the University of Iowa's integrated health system.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of diagnostic ultrasound procedures performed, with a specific emphasis on pediatric and adult echocardiograms.

• Include examples of Doppler imaging techniques and their application in diagnosis.

• Demonstrate understanding of image quality assessment and protocol adherence through case examples.

• Present evidence of successful patient interaction and communication during procedures.

• Highlight any contributions to process improvement or protocol development within previous roles. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of maintaining accurate and complete patient records and exam documentation.

• Examples of adherence to departmental quality control procedures and equipment maintenance logs.

• Documentation of patient preparation, monitoring, and post-procedure care.

• Case studies or descriptions illustrating the process of consulting with physicians on exam findings.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, candidates should prepare to discuss their experience with specific procedures, patient care protocols, and quality assurance practices. Demonstrating an understanding of the diagnostic workflow and documentation standards will be crucial. The mention of EPIC suggests familiarity with integrated EHR systems is beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The provided salary range for this 50% time position is $31,703.50 - $57,382.50 annually. This range is based on years of experience.

• A full-time equivalent (100%) salary range would be approximately $63,407 - $114,765 USD per year. Benefits:

• Comprehensive fringe benefit package for regular salaried positions.

• Paid vacation and sick leave.

• Health, dental, life, and disability insurance options.

• Generous employer contributions to retirement plans, including a double-match retirement option.

• Access to University of Iowa's "Why Iowa?" resources for employee well-being and work-life balance. Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position totaling 20 hours per week (50% of full-time).

• Scheduled hours are Monday through Friday, with variable times between 7:30 AM and 5:30 PM.

• No weekend, holiday, or on-call duties are required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is presented for 50% time; candidates should annualize this for a full-time comparison. The "double-match retirement" is a significant benefit for long-term financial planning. The predictable weekday schedule with no weekends or holidays offers excellent work-life balance, which is a key selling point for this role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare & Education (Academic Medical Center)

Company Size: The University of Iowa Health Care employs over 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers, indicating a large, complex organization.

Founded: The University of Iowa was founded in 1847, with its Health Care system evolving to become a comprehensive academic medical center.

Team Structure:

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

• The role involves collaboration with interpreting physicians, other healthcare providers, sonography students, and medical residents.

• There is an implied reporting structure to clinic management or lead sonographers/radiologists.

• Potential for floating to other specialties/clinics suggests a coordinated approach to staffing across multiple locations. Methodology:

• The clinic operates with a strong emphasis on patient-centered care, adhering to the WECARE Core Values: Welcoming, Excellence, Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, and Empowerment.

• Data-driven decision-making is inherent in an academic medical setting, focusing on quality outcomes and evidence-based practices.

• Workflow optimization is a continuous effort to ensure efficient and effective patient care delivery.

• Automation and technology are utilized to support diagnostic processes and record-keeping (e.g., EPIC EHR).

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

Healthcare System Website: https://uihealthcare.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: The WECARE Core Values are central to the company culture and should be reflected in an applicant's approach and interview responses. As an academic medical center, there's a strong emphasis on continuous learning, research, and teaching, which this role actively participates in through instruction.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Clinical Specialist. It requires specialized technical skills and experience in diagnostic sonography, with a focus on echocardiography. Beyond performing procedures, it involves contributing to quality control, education, and potentially protocol development.

Reporting Structure: The Sonographer will likely report to a Clinic Manager, Lead Sonographer, or a Chief of Diagnostic Imaging within the UI Health Care system. They will collaborate closely with physicians and other clinical staff.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts patient care by providing essential diagnostic imaging that informs treatment decisions for cardiology patients. High-quality imaging and accurate interpretations contribute to improved patient outcomes, operational efficiency in diagnostic pathways, and the overall reputation of UI Health Care. The educational component also impacts the development of future healthcare professionals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in pediatric echocardiography, fetal echocardiography, or other specialized ultrasound modalities.

• Leadership: Potential to move into Lead Sonographer roles, supervising junior staff, managing schedules, and overseeing quality assurance.

• Education: Become a primary instructor for sonography students or residents, developing curriculum and training programs.

• Process Improvement: Contribute to developing new scanning protocols, implementing new technologies, or optimizing workflow efficiency within the clinic.

• Advanced Certifications: Pursue further ARDMS certifications or other relevant professional development to enhance qualifications and career prospects.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Explore opportunities within other departments of the large UI Health Care system, leveraging acquired skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "50%" designation implies this role might be ideal for someone seeking work-life balance or supplementing income, but the growth opportunities suggest a pathway for advancement within the larger UI Health Care system if desired. The academic setting fosters continuous learning.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site clinical role within a University of Iowa Community Clinic. The Urbandale Clinic is a modern healthcare facility designed for patient care.

Office Location(s):

• Primary location: Urbandale Clinic, Urbandale, Iowa.

• Potential to float to other clinic locations within the Iowa City and Des Moines metropolitan areas, including Pediatrics and Specialty/Outreach Clinics. Workspace Context:

• The work environment is a clinical setting requiring direct patient interaction.

• Access to state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment and technology is expected.

• Collaboration with a multidisciplinary healthcare team is a daily aspect of the role.

• The environment requires adherence to strict infection control and safety protocols.

• Opportunities for quiet focus during scanning procedures, balanced with active communication with patients and colleagues. Work Schedule:

• Monday to Friday, 20 hours per week.

• Flexible hours between 7:30 AM and 5:30 PM, allowing for scheduling preferences.

• No weekends or holidays, ensuring consistent time off.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Urbandale Clinic setting implies a professional, patient-focused environment. The flexibility in daily hours within the Monday-Friday framework is a significant perk for a part-time role. The possibility of floating requires adaptability and familiarity with different clinic settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit a resume and a plain text cover letter that specifically addresses how you meet the required and desired qualifications.

• Initial Screening: HR and potentially a hiring manager will review applications for minimum qualifications.

• Phone/Video Interview: A preliminary discussion to assess general fit, experience, and understanding of the role. Candidates may be asked about their experience with pediatric echocardiography and ARDMS certification.

• On-Site Interview/Skills Assessment: This may involve meeting the team, touring the facility, and potentially a practical demonstration or case study discussion related to sonography techniques and patient interaction.

• Final Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager or lead physician to finalize the decision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume: Clearly list ARDMS certifications (or eligibility), specific ultrasound modalities mastered (especially pediatric echo), and years of experience in relevant settings. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Cover Letter: Directly address each required and desired qualification. For example, explicitly state your experience with pediatric echocardiograms, your ARDMS specialty, and your familiarity with EPIC if applicable.

• Prepare to Discuss: Be ready to elaborate on specific complex cases you've handled, how you ensure image quality, your approach to patient communication, and any experience you have instructing students or residents.

• Highlight Adaptability: If you have experience floating between different clinics or specialties, emphasize this to demonstrate your flexibility.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss common diagnostic challenges in echocardiography and how you would approach them.

• Understand the importance of patient preparation and comfort in sonography procedures.

• Anticipate questions about quality control measures and your role in maintaining them.

• Think about how you would explain a complex procedure to a patient or a family member.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "plain text cover letter" suggests a preference for clear, concise communication over fancy formatting. Directly mapping qualifications to the job description in the cover letter is critical for this application. The potential for a skills assessment means candidates should refresh their practical knowledge.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Ultrasound Machines: Advanced diagnostic ultrasound systems with imaging and Doppler capabilities (specific models not listed, but expect high-end clinical equipment).

• Imaging Software: Software integrated with ultrasound machines for image acquisition, manipulation, and storage.

• Contrast Agents: Familiarity with the administration and protocols for contrast agents used in ultrasound.

Analytics & Reporting:

• EPIC EHR System: Highly desired for patient charting, scheduling, and accessing patient history. Experience with EPIC is a significant advantage.

• PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System): Used for storing and retrieving medical images.

• Departmental Quality Control Software/Tools: For tracking equipment performance and compliance.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, efficiency in the clinical workflow supported by the EHR is key.

• Understanding of scheduling systems within EPIC or similar platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with advanced ultrasound equipment and associated software is fundamental. The strong preference for EPIC experience indicates its central role in the University of Iowa's clinical operations. Familiarity with PACS is also a standard expectation in medical imaging.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Welcoming: Contribute to an inclusive environment where patients, colleagues, and trainees feel valued and respected.

• Excellence: Strive for the highest quality in diagnostic imaging, patient care, and professional conduct.

• Collaboration: Work effectively with physicians, nurses, other sonographers, students, and residents to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

• Accountability: Take responsibility for the accuracy and quality of your work, adherence to protocols, and professional development.

• Respect: Treat all individuals with dignity, fostering a supportive and empathetic atmosphere.

• Empowerment: Take initiative in your role, contribute to learning and teaching, and embrace opportunities for growth.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Work closely with interpreting physicians to clarify findings and ensure diagnostic accuracy. Collaborate with nursing staff for patient preparation and care.

• Team-Based Learning: Actively participate in the education of students and residents, sharing knowledge and best practices.

• Process Improvement Culture: Be open to feedback, contribute to discussions on improving workflow efficiency, and adhere to evolving departmental standards.

• Communication: Maintain clear, concise, and professional communication with all stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The WECARE values are not just aspirational; they are expected to be demonstrated in daily work. Applicants should be prepared to provide examples of how they embody these values in their professional interactions and clinical practice.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Pediatric and Complex Cases: Handling specialized scans for pediatric patients requires specific expertise and a gentle approach. Managing complex cardiac cases may present diagnostic challenges.

• Maintaining High-Quality Standards: Consistently ensuring diagnostic quality across all procedures, especially when under time pressure or dealing with difficult patient anatomy.

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

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Ultrasound technology evolves rapidly; continuous learning is necessary to stay proficient.

• Balancing Patient Care and Efficiency: Effectively managing patient flow and procedure times while delivering thorough and high-quality diagnostic imaging.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Opportunities to attend workshops, seminars, or pursue certifications in advanced echocardiography techniques (pediatric, fetal, interventional).

• Mentorship: Learn from experienced physicians and sonographers within the UI Health Care system.

• Educational Involvement: Gain experience in teaching and mentoring sonography students and medical residents.

• Exposure to Research: As part of an academic medical center, there may be opportunities to assist with or learn about clinical research involving diagnostic imaging.

• Professional Development: Access to University of Iowa's extensive professional development resources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges present opportunities for skill development. The academic environment strongly supports continuous learning and professional growth, making this role suitable for ambitious sonographers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience performing pediatric echocardiograms. What are the unique challenges and considerations?"

• "How do you ensure the diagnostic quality of your ultrasound images, particularly in complex cases?"

• "Walk me through your process for documenting ultrasound findings and communicating them to a physician."

• "How do you maintain patient comfort and trust during a diagnostic procedure, especially with pediatric patients?"

• "Describe a time you had to troubleshoot an equipment malfunction. What steps did you take?"

• "How do you stay current with advancements in ultrasound technology and ARDMS best practices?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you embody the WECARE values in your daily work?"

• "Why are you interested in working for the University of Iowa Health Care system specifically?"

• "How do you approach collaboration with physicians and other members of the healthcare team?"

• "What is your understanding of the role of an academic medical center in healthcare delivery and education?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume: Have a clear, concise resume highlighting your ARDMS certifications, specialized experience (pediatric echo, fetal echo), and technical skills.

• Cover Letter: Ensure your cover letter directly addresses each requirement and desired qualification with specific examples.

• Case Examples: Be prepared to verbally walk through 1-2 complex cases you've managed, focusing on your diagnostic approach, image acquisition, and interpretation collaboration.

• Equipment Familiarity: Be ready to discuss the types of ultrasound equipment you've used and your comfort level with various features (e.g., Doppler, 3D imaging if applicable).

• Patient Interaction: Discuss your approach to patient education and managing patient anxiety.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should research the University of Iowa Health Care system and its mission, as well as the specific WECARE values. Tailoring responses to these aspects will demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit. The emphasis on a "plain text cover letter" means the content must be strong and direct.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the UIowa Taleo career portal.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume prominently features your ARDMS certification(s), specific experience in pediatric and adult echocardiography, and any familiarity with the EPIC EHR system. Quantify your experience where possible (e.g., "performed an average of X scans per day").

• Cover Letter Customization: Craft a plain text cover letter that directly addresses each "required" and "desired" qualification listed in the job description. Use specific examples to demonstrate your proficiency and experience.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience with complex diagnostic procedures, patient care protocols, and your understanding of quality assurance in sonography. Be ready to discuss the WECARE values.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the University of Iowa Health Care's mission, vision, and the WECARE Core Values. Understand the role of an academic medical center and its commitment to education and research.

⚠️ 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.