Health Physics Technician II

This series of job classifications includes positions in which major function involves performing a wide variety of health physics support duties assigned to the Environment, Safety and Health Division and Radiation Protection Department at SLAC. There are four levels in the series, Health Physics Technician I (HPTI), Health Physics Technician II (HPT II), Health Physics Technician III (HPT III), and Health Physics Technician Lead.

These levels are differentiated by the degree of specialized knowledge and technical skills, legally defined training and testing required by the Department of Energy (DOE), as well as the extent of required supervision and guidance. The work performed by the Health Physics Technician requires application of radiation detection principles, knowledge of regulatory requirements and proficiency in one or more of the following areas: radioactive material and swipe surveys, area radiation monitoring, and radiological work control development.

Although health physicists, engineers, and area managers are responsible for project assignments and development of the theoretical or conceptual aspects of the work, the Health Physics Technician will be expected to use their technical knowledge to implement specific details of their daily tasks and off-normal duties.

Typically, Health Physics Technician positions start at Health Physics Technician I level and fulfill mandated training program requirements by the end of the first year of employment. If hired at the Health Physics Technician II (HPT II) or higher, the technician must complete practical factors and additional site specific requirements within the six-month probationary period.

Works independently and under general supervision, Work is spot checked for quality. Duties which require higher level approval will be reviewed for completeness and accuracy. Assignments normally require study and analysis of various courses of action. HPTs II are expected to evaluate options and determine the most appropriate approach to job coverage, problem solution, survey method, etc.

Technicians at this level are pro-active in their approach to radiological protection, seeking out problems and weaknesses, and implementing solutions. HPT IIs have the authority to release material from radiological controls. May provide guidance to HPT I in the performance of some of their technical work, and advise others on appropriate health physics procedures.

Complete all required training and testing qualifications. Training programs are detailed in the SLAC HPT Training Program, SLAC I-720-2A04G-006, and are based on the DOE Radiological Control Technician Training Program. Testing includes a written academic examination, and several practical (demonstrative) examinations.

HPTs II must re-qualify every two years. Core Duties : Conduct radiological measurements of material and waste removed from RMMAs to determine residual radioactivity content for both volume activation and radioactive contamination and complete the appropriate survey documentation. Collect data for and assist in waste characterization evaluation.

Conduct radiation survey measurements including area dose rates and radioactive contamination. Post radiological areas, document results, and set access restrictions and communicate results with others workers and supervisors. Establish controls for work conducted in radiological areas, and direct such work as needed.

Assist Radiation Protection Department in calibrating and certifying radiation detection equipment such as Beam Shut Off Ion Chambers (BSOIC) and Portal Gate Monitors. Establish radiation controls for operations designated as “low-liability” jobs. Determine radiological controls required for Radiological Work Permits (RWPs) and generate RWP for review and signature.

Set up hold-points during radiological operations and monitor work in progress. Conduct day-to-day response checks of survey equipment. Exercise "Stop Work" authority for radiologically unsafe workers or working conditions May perform any of the duties described in the HPT I specification or other duties as assigned. Adhere to safety rules.

Minimum Education and Experience In addition to the qualifications for the HPT I, the HPT II requires two years’ practical work experience on several different HPT assignments so that working knowledge will include some breadth in areas such as radiation detection and measurement, electronics, and regulatory directives.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities : Knowledge of basic engineering or scientific principles, mathematics, physics, and related subject matter equivalent to the technical and mathematical content of a two year vocational or trade-oriented curriculum, or a combination of education and relevant experience. Demonstrated experience in the use, applicability and operation of a variety of field and fixed radiation detection equipment.

Examples include: portable Geiger-Mueller and ionization chambers, fixed and portable NaI crystal detectors, fixed and portable High-purity Ge detectors, and portable neutron detectors. Basic understanding of counting statistics and effect of background, count time, geometry and other effects on radiation measurements.

Understanding of the principles of radiation protection, i.e. time, distance and shielding. How to conduct radiological work coverage, the use of judgment in setting and monitoring radiological work, and how to evaluate the radiological safety issues involved Experience in data collection and recording. Importance of accurate record keeping, logbook maintenance, and general guidelines for proper documentation of survey results SLAC specific guidelines and interpretations of the SLAC Radiological Control Manuals (RCM) and 10CFR835.

Understanding the definitions, policies and implementation. Comprehension of the hazards and control of loose surface radioactive contamination. Monitoring and measuring techniques, posting policies and personnel and area decontamination procedures. A thorough understanding of the site, including typical hazards and radiation/contamination levels present in the various parts of the accelerator Must have an understanding of the level of responsibility involved in releasing an item for unrestricted use and specifics of surveying material for unrestricted use.

Demonstrated communication skills both verbal and written. Must be able to interact effectively with other workers, supervisors and managers. Must have computer skills in office software such as MS Word, Excel and email applications. Completion of SLAC requirements for HPT II including Core exam and practical factors.

Certificates and Licenses Required Must possess and maintain a valid California Non-commercial Class C Driver’s License.