Associate Health Physicist, Radiation Safety

Basic Qualifications

Requires Bachelor of Science in health physics or related science and three years of experience. Education, professional training and certifications may count toward experience.

Consideration will be given to individuals in their last year of an appropriate degree program. Experience performing laser hazard assessments in accordance with ANSI Z136 is strongly preferred. Experience conducting comprehensive radiation laboratory safety analysis in a university or research environment (i.e., Broad scope type license experience) is preferred.

Working knowledge of regulations (i.e., MDPH, NRC) and best practices for academic ionizing and non-ionizing radiation use is expected. Subject to a criminal background/suitability investigation.

Candidate must possess initiative and be self-motivated. Must have strong organizational, analytical, time management, and oral/written communication skills; technical writing skills, high attention to detail; flexible and adaptable; ability to manage multiple priorities; and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Position Description

• Perform routine and job specific radiological surveillance: Determine appropriate detection methodology based on lab-specific isotope use.
  
  Monitor all RAM areas via routine surveys using dose-rate and contamination meters and analyze results. Maintain compliance with correct postings of radiological postings or warning devices. Perform technical and analytical decontamination activities when necessary.

• Accept RAM shipments and deliver RAM to laboratories: Survey in-bound shipments of RAM, sealed sources, and equipment, to ensure compliance with regulatory, procedural, and license requirements. Deliver RAM to laboratories.

• Maintain rigorous records: In a timely manner, document all inspections, radiological surveys, meter calibrations, meter QC checks, sample results, package receipt records, and shipping records for regulatory compliance.

• Conduct Permit Inspections: Conduct inspections of laboratories for the safe storage, use and disposal of radiation sources including review of safety equipment, designated workspaces, training for authorized users, standard operating procedures, and other required documentation.

• RAM waste processing and disposal: Qualify as a hazmat shipper and aid with the shipment of radioactive materials. Aggregate laboratory RAM waste and determine appropriate disposal method.

• Participate in the non-ionizing Radiation Safety Program: Provide services to non-ionizing safety program, including laser hazard analysis surveys and permit reviews.

• Interface with Harvard researchers: Act as a point of contact for assigned laboratories or buildings; providing assistance, direction, and oversight in matters involving radiation protection and safety compliance. Assist researchers in finding solutions to problems in a manner that demonstrates sensitivity to both their primary objectives and radiation protection.

• Develop a wide range of Health Physics skills: Become proficient at the operation of various radiation instrumentation, computer systems, and techniques used for measurement, storage, analysis and processing of radiological data.

• Develop working knowledge of EH&S Program: Understand the structure and function of all areas of EH&S. Maintain familiarity with and participate in emergency cross training procedures.

• Develop Standard Operating Procedures: Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures for the Radiation Safety Program.

• Provide 24-hour emergency support: Provide 24-hour radiation emergency response support as needed. Respond and/or triage daytime and after-hours Laboratory Safety emergency calls on a rotating basis.

• Perform other duties as assigned by supervision/management.

Job Summary

As a member of the Radiation Safety Services' team, Associate Health Physicists (AHPs) provide technical expertise and professional guidance for the safe use of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation at Harvard University. Under the direction of the Assistant Radiation Safety Officer, Associate Health Physicists are responsible for ensuring the safe use, storage, and disposal of radioactive material (RAM) and radiation emitting devices (ionizing and non-ionizing) throughout the University campus locations.

Associate Health Physicists interact directly with researchers in the Harvard laboratories and use independent judgment to support researchers. Associate Health Physicists are expected to exhibit and promote awareness and sensitivity to safety issues and 'As Low As Reasonably Achievable' (ALARA) principles in a positive manner throughout their day-to-day work in Harvard labs and buildings. This position is based primarily in Cambridge, Boston, and Allston, offering flexible hours with the requirement of being on-site between 10 AM and 3 PM on most days. It's an excellent opportunity for recent college graduates seeking to jumpstart their careers!