Health Physics Technician

Job Summary

The Office of Radiation Safety is hiring a Health Physics Technician to join the Department of Environment, Health & Safety. The Technician will implement procedures for the UW‑Madison Radiation Safety Program and report to the Associate Radiation Safety Officer. The Program establishes safety standards to protect personnel who work with or may be exposed to radiation.

The Technician integrates regulatory requirements and best practices with field observations to keep radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable. Regular communication with clinical and research staff is required to support a safe work environment.

The role covers a broad range, including maintenance of radioactive material spaces and equipment, identification, quantification, and processing of radioactive waste, preparation and shipping of radioactive material and waste, assistance with decommissioning projects, radiological surveys, and other duties as needed.

• Assist with planning of emergency plans and protocols.
• Identify, handle, process, dispose, and document radioactive waste generated at UW Health facilities.
• Transport radioactive materials, waste, and radiopharmaceuticals in compliance with WI DHS and DOT regulations.
• Maintain and calibrate radiation detection equipment used in research and clinical facilities.
• Provide basic knowledge and guidance to internal and external stakeholders in safety areas such as biosafety, chemical, hazardous materials, agriculture, lake, radiation, and OSHA.
• Assist with planning and executing technical inspections and consultations to measure compliance and identify practices ensuring safe operation of equipment.

• At least one year of relevant work experience; a degree or coursework in the subject area may be substituted.
• Self‑motivated, able to work independently or as a team with professional judgment.
• Detail‑oriented with strong organizational and time‑management skills; capable of managing and prioritizing tasks within deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills; able to interact professionally with researchers, staff, students, administrators, and regulators.
• Committed to customer service, timely response, collaboration, and diversity.
• Ability to work in research labs, health‑care environments, animal facilities, and hazardous waste facilities; may involve occasional occupational exposure to ionizing radiation, chemicals, and biological agents.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license meeting UW Risk Management standards.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment, use radiation dosimetry, and submit bioassay samples as required.

• Working knowledge of federal or state regulations related to radioactive material and radiation‑generating devices.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including training, instruction, and presentation of technical information.
• Previous DOT HMR and/or HAZWOPER training.
• Proficiency with PC, office productivity applications, presentation software, and database applications.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or transport 40 pounds routinely.
• Ability to move freely throughout facilities, including stairs, and to survey hard‑to‑reach areas with endurance for lab visits and emergency response activities.
• Ability to pass a respirator medical evaluation if required for the respiratory protection program.

Associate’s degree preferred with a focus in radiation protection or a related field.

Minimum $26.00 per hour, negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

The position includes a comprehensive benefits package with paid time off, health/dental/vision/life insurance, tax‑advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System pension fund. For a summary of benefits, see the University Staff Benefits Summary.

• Cover letter describing how your experience relates to the listed required and preferred qualifications.
• Resume detailing your educational and professional background.

All documents must be uploaded in a single attachment field.

We will review applications after the posted deadline and notify selected applicants. Final candidates will…