Radiation Field Scientist, Bureau of Environmental Sciences and Engineering

The Office of Radiological Health (ORH) licenses and inspects more than 7,000 facilities using radioactive materials and x-ray producing equipment throughout New York City to ensure compliance with public health and safety regulations.

About the role

The Bureau of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (ESE) is seeking a Scientist Level II for the Office of Radiological Health (ORH). The candidate will inspect medical and research facilities that use radiation-producing equipment, assess compliance with New York City Health Code and other applicable regulations, and ensure the safety of patients, staff, and the public. This position plays a critical role in protecting public health by ensuring facilities are properly registered and implementing policies and procedures that reduce unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation.

Responsibilities

• Schedule and inspect facilities that use radiation-producing equipment throughout New York City for compliance with NYC Health Code and applicable State and Federal regulations.
• Perform on-site tests of radiation-producing equipment installations.
• Review and verify facility license and registration information and evaluate quality control procedures.
• Prepare reports of inspection using agency protocols, forms, and tools.
• Prepare and serve court summons and tribunal hearing notices when specific violations of applicable City, State, and Federal laws and regulations are found, and appear before tribunal to testify when necessary.
• Participate in emergency training exercises and drills and assist in emergency response.
• Operate a motor vehicle to perform job duties.

Qualifications

• A master’s degree in radiological health or a related field; or
• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college, including or supplemented by 24 semester credits in physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, or a related field, plus one year of satisfactory full-time professional experience in the field of health physics, radiological health, or radiation hygiene.

For Assignment Level II: To be eligible, individuals must have, after meeting the minimum requirements, at least one year of satisfactory service as a Scientist (Radiation Control) AL I with the City of New York, or at least one additional year of satisfactory full-time professional experience in the field of health physics, radiological health, or radiation hygiene.

For Assignment Level III: To be eligible, individuals must have, after meeting the minimum requirements described in Assignment Level I, at least two years of satisfactory service as a Scientist (Radiation Control) AL I and AL II with the City of New York, or at least two additional years of satisfactory full-time professional experience in the field of health physics, radiological health, or radiation hygiene.

This position is also open to qualified persons with a disability who are eligible for the 55-a Program. Please indicate at the top of your resume and cover letter if you would like to be considered through the 55-a Program.

New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. However, City Employees in certain titles who have worked for the City for 2 continuous years may also be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County.

Skills

• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local regulations, standards, and protocols pertaining to radiation safety and control, including New York City Health Code Article 175.
• Ability to read, comprehend, and interpret written materials such as laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to interpret radiological measurements and survey results.
• Knowledge of radiation safety, dosimetry, and radiation protection principles.
• Knowledge of radiation detection instruments and equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret data from meters and other measuring devices.
• Ability to prepare and interpret data presented in graphs, tables, charts, and narrative formats.
• Ability to accurately document inspections and evaluations.
• Ability to recognize unsafe or inadequate conditions and recommend appropriate corrective actions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to think critically and solve problems.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.

Benefits

• Premium-free health insurance plan that saves employees over $10K annually (per a 2024 assessment).
• Additional health, fitness, and financial benefits may be available based on the position’s associated union/benefit fund.
• Public sector defined benefit pension plan with steady monthly payments in retirement.
• Tax-deferred savings program.
• Robust Worksite Wellness Program offering resources and opportunities to keep you healthy while serving New Yorkers.
• Potential eligibility for federal/state loan forgiveness and repayment assistance programs (visit U.S. Department of Education’s website for details).
• Work-from-home policy allowing up to two days per week from home, depending on the position.
• Enhanced job security compared to private sector employment.

About the organization

Established in 1805, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC Health Department) is the oldest and largest health department in the U.S., dedicated to protecting and improving the health of NYC. Our mission is to safeguard the health of every resident and cultivate a city where everyone, regardless of age, background, or location, can achieve their optimal health. We provide a wide array of programs and services focused on food and nutrition, anti-tobacco support, chronic disease prevention, HIV/AIDS treatment, family and child health, environmental health, mental health, and social justice initiatives. As the primary population health strategist and policy authority for NYC, we serve as a global leader in public health innovation and expertise.