Proton Radiation Therapist - Second Shift

Institution: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)

About the role

The Proton Center of Arkansas is one of only 46 operational proton therapy centers in the United States. This position requires a higher level of vigilance in patient preparation, immobilization, alignment, image-guidance interpretation, and beam delivery as prescribed by a radiation oncologist. Therapists must work quickly and efficiently, review x-ray images with heightened accuracy, and understand the intricacies of the proton machine—a sophisticated and labor-intensive treatment delivery system. The role involves collaborating with an on-site engineering team from the device vendor to manage frequent downtime situations, requiring flexibility for extended or make-up hours. Additionally, therapists perform CT simulations and QACTs for proton treatment and dose assessment.

Under the direct supervision of the Clinical Operations Director, this position is responsible for radiation therapy procedures, dose calculations, chart and routine consistency checks on the treatment machine and simulator during a treatment day, five days a week. This may include overtime, cross-coverage of photons, and call-back as required by the center.

Training can be provided on site upon hire.

Responsibilities

• Performs proton therapy procedures according to physician’s orders and departmental guidelines; determines and prepares set-ups within established parameters, calculates monitor units, and records patient treatment information in the EMR while maintaining confidentiality.
• Maintains and submits daily patient EMR information, charges, schedules, and census.
• Assesses and evaluates patient needs and treatment-related issues; recommends intervention and acts in accordance with physician practices and departmental policies while maintaining confidentiality.
• Regularly investigates problems or unsatisfactory procedures and recommends possible solutions.
• Performs checks on patient’s EMR for accuracy and proper documentation according to established procedures.
• Schedules patients for daily treatments.
• Maintains quality control of patient EMR and treatment parameters by implementing guidelines on a regular basis.
• Maintains room cleanliness, linens, and needed supplies in treatment room; notifies proper personnel of areas needing attention.
• Evaluates, teaches, and monitors the clinical and didactic education of radiation therapists, dosimetry, clinical residents, physics residents, and diagnostic students.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

Note: Proton therapists will be expected to have more flexibility than normal due to the fact that there is only one proton unit. In the event of system downtime, the treatment day is commonly extended or rescheduled to assure all patients are treated.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in radiation therapy PLUS two (2) years of experience in a healthcare environment OR Bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy.
• Current registration by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists as a radiation therapist with an accredited program of radiation therapy technology.
• Current Licensure as a Radiation Therapist with the Arkansas Department of Health.
• Current BLS certification or must successfully obtain certification within the first 30 days of employment.

Benefits

Available for benefits-eligible positions only:

• Health: Medical, Dental, and Vision plans available for qualifying staff and family.
• Holiday, Vacation, and Sick Leave.
• Education discount for staff and dependents (undergraduate only).
• Retirement: Up to 10% matched contribution from UAMS.
• Basic Life Insurance up to $50,000.
• Career Training and Educational Opportunities.
• Merchant Discounts.
• Concierge prescription delivery on the main campus when using UAMS pharmacy.

Schedule

• Evening shift.
• Regular work schedule: five days a week, subject to overtime, cross-coverage of photons, and call-back as required by the center.

Physical Activity

• Constant: Hearing, lifting, manipulating items with fingers (including keyboarding), pulling, pushing, repetitive motion, sitting, standing, talking, walking.
• Frequent: Hearing, lifting, manipulating items with fingers (including keyboarding), pulling, pushing, repetitive motion, sitting, standing, talking, walking.
• Occasional: Crouching, kneeling, sharps, stooping.

Pre-employment Screening Requirements: Annual TB Screening, Criminal Background Check, Substance Abuse Testing.