Cardiac Sonographer Resident

About the Job

The Cardiac Sonographer Resident participates in a structured clinical training program designed to develop the technical skills, clinical knowledge, critical thinking, and professional competencies required for a successful career in cardiac sonography.

Working under the supervision of an Advanced Echo Coordinator, the resident will progressively develop competency in comprehensive adult echocardiography while gaining exposure to advanced cardiovascular imaging 

Responsibilities

• Perform inpatient and outpatient cardiac ultrasound examinations under appropriate supervision, including 2D/M-mode imaging, color and spectral Doppler, bubble studies, contrast-enhanced studies, and limited examinations.
• Develop proficiency in acquiring technically accurate and diagnostically useful echocardiographic images.
• Perform examinations on adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients with varying levels of clinical complexity.
• Develop knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology, hemodynamics, and cardiovascular pathology and apply this knowledge during patient examinations.
• Progressively assume greater responsibility and independence as clinical competencies are demonstrated.
• Recognize abnormal or significant findings and appropriately communicate concerns to the supervising sonographer or interpreting physician.
• Participate in structured clinical instruction, case review, competency assessment, and educational activities.
• Accept and apply feedback from clinical educators and preceptors to support continuous improvement.
• Maintain accurate examination documentation and comply with department, hospital, regulatory, and IAC standards.
• Provide compassionate, professional, and patient-centered care while maintaining patient privacy and safety.
• Participate in quality improvement and professional development activities within the echocardiography department.
• As competency develops, participate in or observe advanced imaging procedures such as transesophageal, stress, 3D, contrast, and structural heart echocardiography.

Qualifications

Minimum Education Required

Graduate of, or currently enrolled in, a CAAHEP-accredited Cardiovascular Technology/Echocardiography program or other registry-eligible cardiac sonography program.

Minimum Experience Required

Clinical echocardiography experience obtained through an accredited cardiac sonography educational program preferred. Previous healthcare or patient-care experience is beneficial.

Minimum Licensure/Certification Required By Law

• Current registry eligible with the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) for RDCS or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) for RCS.
• Must obtain the appropriate credential within the timeframe required by Piedmont and applicable credentialing standards.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification in accordance with the American Heart Association is required.

Additional Qualifications

The ideal candidate demonstrates:

• Strong interest in cardiovascular imaging and echocardiography.
• Strong academic foundation in anatomy, physiology, physics, and cardiovascular science.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong attention to detail and critical-thinking ability.
• Professionalism, reliability, accountability, and commitment to patient care.
• Willingness to accept feedback and demonstrate continuous improvement.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
• Commitment to professional development and lifelong learning.

Residency Program Focus

The Cardiac Sonographer Residency Program is designed to prepare residents for successful entry into the profession through progressive clinical training, mentorship, and competency development. The program emphasizes not only the ability to acquire technically excellent images, but also the development of clinical reasoning and understanding of why each component of an echocardiographic examination matters.

Residents will be expected to demonstrate growth in technical proficiency, clinical reasoning, patient care, professionalism, and independence throughout the program, with the goal of becoming competent and confident cardiac sonographers prepared to pursue professional registry credentials.