Radiation Safety Specialist

Hiring Department

Environmental Health & Safety

Job Description

The Radiation Safety Specialist is an entry level position that supports the daily operations of the University of Missouri's radiation safety program. This technician-level position performs hands-on fieldwork and technical support to help ensure the safe and compliant use of radioactive materials and radiation-producing equipment in a variety of research, clinical, and academic settings.

Under the supervision of professional radiation safety staff, the specialist conducts surveys, collects radioactive waste, performs equipment checks, and maintains accurate records. This position is ideal for someone who is dependable, detail-oriented, and comfortable working independently once trained. Strong observational skills, critical thinking, and a willingness to ask questions are essential to success.

You'll be part of a collaborative team that values safety, integrity, and continuous improvement. Each day brings a chance to support cutting-edge research and clinical work, while gaining hands-on experience with real-world radiation safety practices. This role offers exposure to diverse work environments - including laboratories, medical and veterinary facilities, and waste management operations - and provides opportunities for learning and professional development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct routine radiation and contamination surveys in laboratories and workspaces.
• Perform radioactive package receipt and delivery.
• Calibrate or coordinate calibration of radiation detection equipment.
• Assist with coordinating radioactive waste shipments.
• Support the team by creating how-to guides for standard tasks.
• Perform bioassays for radioactive iodine administrations.
• Assist with sealed source leak testing and inventory verification.
• Help distribute and collect personnel dosimetry badges.
• File and scan records related to radioactive material use and waste disposal.
• Enter data into the radiation safety database accurately and on time.
• Restock PPE, spill kits, and other radiation safety materials in labs and storage areas.
• Assist with laboratory closeouts, contamination clean-up, and spill response under supervision.
• Support radiation safety staff during internal audits or NRC inspections.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, procedural inconsistencies, or contamination issues to radiation safety staff.
• Exercise good judgment when performing tasks independently and escalate concerns when appropriate.
• Adapt to changing priorities in a dynamic research and clinical environment.
• Follow written procedures carefully and ask clarifying questions when unsure.
• Maintain a high standard of accuracy and attention to detail in documentation and fieldwork.
• Communicate professionally with laboratory personnel, researchers, and clinical staff during field activities.
• Work cooperatively as part of a small team that values initiative and accountability.

Shift

M-F, 8 hours/day

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities can be acquired is necessary. Certification as required by regulatory agencies is necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

• An Associate degree in Applied Science or equivalent experience.
• Must currently possess or be able to obtain, within 30 days, a valid Missouri Driver's License.
• Ability to meet initial and as needed fitness-for-duty (drug and alcohol testing), background screening, training, driving records, strength/dexterity, and other requirements necessary for complete job performance for campus and hospital radiation safety programs.
• Must be able to meet the physical requirements of the job (i.e., ability to lift up to 50 lbs.), to be able to perform laboratory monitoring, and conduct surveys using various types and sometimes cumbersome survey instruments.
• Possess working knowledge of MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to read and communicate effectively.

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary Range: $20.00 - $22.00 hourly

Grade: GGS-007

University Title: Environmental Health Technician II

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Application Materials

Resume

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits .

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer .

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.