Health Physicist Job Description

What is the job description of a Health Physicist? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Health Physicist? What does a Health Physicist do?

Job description of a Health Physicist

Health Physicists (Radiation protection practitioners) give advice and guidance about the possible hazards of ionising radiation, such as x-rays, as well as radioactive materials and waste. Some practitioners also advise on non-ionising radiation, e.g. radar, mobile phone masts, lasers and ultraviolet light.

Health Physicists use scientific techniques and equipment to measure and monitor radiation, assess risks and ensure the safety of the workplace, the general public and the environment.

This Health Physicist job description example includes the list of most important Health Physicist duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Health Physicist profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Health Physicist Duties and Responsibilities

Health Physicist job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Protect people and environment from radiation exposure
  • Ensure proper and safe working conditions for all
  • Assess potential environmental impact and ensure that the facility complies with federal regulations
  • Assist other professionals like engineers and scientists in designing facilities and new radiation-control programs
  • Review and recommend radiation safety measures to facility, equipment and defensive designs
  • Provide guidelines and regulations on suitable radiation control programs
  • Help in the right selection, purchase and maintenance of radiation protection, laboratory, and detection equipment
  • Ensure that the effects of radiation exposure are minimum
  • Prepare and approve safety and work procedures that provide adequate radiation protection during facility operations
  • Prepare written guidelines and modules on radiation control methods
  • Recommend the management on new methods and equipment for use in radiation work and remedial measure for problems
  • Use mathematical concepts to design varied principles and theories related to the subject matter
  • Provide training programs for future health physicists
  • Prepare emergency plans with safety canons to minimize health physics problems and to assure quick remedy
  • Conduct field drills for safety and control
  • Review all radiological monitoring data
  • Examine the laboratory results to ensure proper functioning of the reactor
  • Assure safe use of radiation source at all levels
  • Attain maximum benefit through appropriate application of ionizing radiation
  • Report on radiation safety and health developments to the management
  • Attend training programs or scientific conferences, seminars, etc., to remain updated with new technologies, policies and standards.

Health Physicist Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Health Physicist job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • A bachelor's degree in health physics or related field (physics, chemistry, nuclear engineering, and environment science)
  • Knowledge of equipment used in health physics applications
  • Knowledge and experience in radiation hazards and its impact on the environment and its people
  • Ability to handle emergency situations and excellent problem solving skills
  • Ability to handle multiple projects
  • Ability to assess potential risks and recommend essential remedial measures
  • Knowledge of technical and scientific aspects of radiation
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to work in team including other science professionals
  • Excellent analytical skills

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Health Physicist starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Health Physicist job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Health Physicist may also reference it in preparation for the interview.