Radiological Control and Safety Technician

POSITION SUMMARY: 

The Radiological Control and Safety Technician performs surveillance of radiological work areas to detect and document the level and type of ionizing radiation/radioactivity in accordance with radiological control regulations for a low-level radioactive waste disposal facility. The incumbent performs and documents air, water, solid and surface radioactivity/radiation surveys using instruments designed to detect type and level of activity. The Radiological Controls and Safety Technician act as the Radiation Protection Manager’s representative in implementing the radiological control and safety aspects for facility operations and performs additional duties as directed by the Radiation Protection Manager or Assistant Radiation Protection Manager.

PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Monitors radiological conditions to ensure personnel radiation exposure remains ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable). Fosters fundamental aspects of the site’s radiation safety ALARA Program (time, distance, shielding).

• Minimizes and control exposure to radioactive contamination.

• Assists in environmental monitoring programs, to include groundwater sampling, soil and vegetation sampling, air sample retrieval, tritium monitoring, and TLD placement, collects environmental samples, logs information, and performs basic testing.

• Collects samples of gases and other air samples to assist in evaluation of radiological and non-radiological airborne contaminants. Assists regulatory agencies with environmental sampling and compliance with environmental standards. Prepares the samples for analysis, records data, prepares summaries, and charts for review. Performs laboratory sample analysis and instrumentation checks.

• Reviews paperwork for accuracy, completeness, to ensure it meets the exacting standards required. Works with regulatory agencies in waste receipt/disposal to ensure Federal/State regulations concerning shipment of DOT Class 7 Hazardous Wastes are followed, reviews shipment paperwork, performs radiological surveys, and inspects packages.

• Implements site safety and control programs to include monitoring and protecting personnel from internal and external radiation exposure by the proper execution of the respiratory, and the dosimetry programs. Conducts various occupational safety and industrial hygiene programs for facility operations.

• Performs instrument checks on radiation measuring equipment including ion chambers, pocket dosimeters and proportional counters and G-M counters using a variety of probes.

• Performs radiological surveys on facility personnel, equipment, and grounds.

• Installs, operates, and performs routine maintenance on gas systems, mechanical equipment, and other test instrumentation.

• Provides radiological safety training and instruction to Operations and Maintenance personnel.

• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Understanding of low level, Class A, B, and C Radioactive Waste.

• Knowledge of Department of Energy (DOE) Radiation Protection policies and procedures.

• Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

• Knowledgeable and trained in principles, methods, and mechanics of monitoring and sampling of radiological hazards.           

• Ability to recognize and characterize problems related to standards and limits, plan investigation action and define corrective measure.    

• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office applications.

• Carryout assigned tasks in outdoor environments.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Ability to apply basic understanding to conduct instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.

• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

• Ability to draft routine reports and correspondence.

• Ability to speak effectively before groups of employees in an organization.

• Proficient in using Excel and other equivalent data management tools.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• High school diploma or GED

• One year of working experience in radiation protection and at least one year experience in a related field of radiation protection; or equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted.

• Must be able to qualify as Site Radiation Controls & Safety Technician.

• Ability to obtain Nuclear Regulatory Commission Trustworthy and Reliable designation.

• Ability to obt