This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.
The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.
Summary
Under general supervision, provides advanced professional expertise in health physics to ensure the safety of University personnel, students, and visitors in the use of ionizing radiation. Oversees major components of the University's radiation safety program in accordance with federal, state, and institutional requirements. Serves as a technical authority for complex radiation safety issues, leads specialized program areas, and provides guidance and training to health physics staff and other personnel.
Duties and Responsibilities
Oversees specialized radiation safety programs, including personnel dosimetry and bioassay, radioactive material inventory, sealed source and gauge management, and survey meter calibration.
Directs and conducts laboratory audits, close-out surveys, equipment clearance, shielding evaluations, and radioactive effluent assessments to ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
Manages radioactive waste processing, storage, and disposal operations, ensuring adherence to regulatory and license requirements.
Reviews and processes research, human use, and animal use protocols involving ionizing radiation; coordinates with radiation leadership and Radiation Control Committee for approval.
Develops, delivers, and evaluates classroom and online radiation safety training programs for diverse user groups, ensuring alignment with regulatory standards.
Provides advanced health physics support for clinical and research operations, including high-dose rate brachytherapy, accelerator use, nuclear reactor activities, and nuclear medicine procedures.
Serves as a subject matter expert during radiological emergencies, leading response efforts and preparing reports with corrective action recommendations.
Develops and implements policies, standard operating procedures, and technical guidance to support safe and compliant radiation use.
Serves as liaison with internal and external regulatory agencies, supporting inspections, license amendments, and compliance audits.
Provides mentorship, technical guidance, and work direction to junior health physics staff, fostering a culture of safety and professional development.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
Bachelor's degree in health physics, physics, chemistry, biology, engineering or a related field; at least 5 years of direct experience related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Knowledge of radiation safety procedures, standards, and protocols.
Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations governing radiation safety programs.
Demonstrated expertise in radiation safety for medical, research, and academic applications.
Skill in developing and delivering effective safety training.
Ability to lead emergency response activities for radiological incidents.
Ability to gather, analyze, and report complex technical data.
Ability to calibrate and operate radiation detection instruments.
Strong organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
Ability to provide technical guidance to professional staff and foster a collaborative work environment.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Position requires: a) Strategic Program Leadership & Regulatory Authority b) Advanced Technical & Clinical Support for Complex Modalities c) Governance of Protocol Review, Policy Development, and Staff Mentorship
Conditions of Employment
Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Considerable physical activity. Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects up to 50 pounds. Physical work is a primary part (more than 70%) of job.
Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.
Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.
