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Associate Radiopharmaceutical Jobs in Chicago, IL

Associate Radiopharmaceutical information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$20

$34

How much do associate radiopharmaceutical jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate radiopharmaceutical in Chicago, IL is $20.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $21.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate radiopharmaceutical?

An Associate Radiopharmaceutical is a professional who assists in the preparation, handling, and quality control of radioactive drugs used for diagnostic imaging and treatment in nuclear medicine. They work under the supervision of pharmacists, scientists, or physicians, ensuring that radiopharmaceuticals are prepared safely and accurately. Their responsibilities may include conducting laboratory tests, maintaining equipment, adhering to safety regulations, and documenting procedures. This role is crucial for supporting patient care and contributing to medical research involving radioactive substances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate radiopharmaceutical?

To thrive as an Associate Radiopharmaceutical, you need a solid background in chemistry or pharmacy, knowledge of radiopharmaceutical production, and a relevant degree or certification such as a bachelor's in pharmaceutical sciences or radiochemistry. Familiarity with laboratory safety procedures, Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards, and specialized equipment like radioisotope generators is essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help ensure precise formulation and regulatory compliance. These skills are vital to maintain product safety, accuracy in dosing, and adherence to strict industry regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by associate radiopharmaceutical professionals in a clinical setting?

Associate Radiopharmaceutical professionals often encounter challenges such as adhering to strict safety and regulatory protocols when handling radioactive materials, maintaining accurate documentation, and ensuring the timely preparation and quality control of radiopharmaceuticals for patient procedures. Additionally, they must stay current with evolving technologies and regulatory requirements, which can require ongoing training. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including pharmacists, nuclear medicine technologists, and physicians—is essential to ensure patient safety and workflow efficiency.

What is the difference between Associate Radiopharmaceutical vs Radiopharmaceutical Technician?

AspectAssociate RadiopharmaceuticalRadiopharmaceutical Technician
CredentialsCertification in radiopharmacy, relevant courseworkCertification or training in radiopharmacy, limited formal education
Work EnvironmentHospitals, imaging centers, radiopharmacy labsHospitals, clinics, nuclear medicine departments
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing, dispensing radiopharmaceuticals, quality controlAssisting in preparation, patient safety, inventory management

The Associate Radiopharmaceutical role typically involves more advanced responsibilities like preparing and quality controlling radiopharmaceuticals, often requiring specific certifications. Radiopharmaceutical Technicians focus on assisting with preparation and patient safety. Both roles work in similar environments and are essential in nuclear medicine departments, but the Associate Radiopharmaceutical generally has a higher level of training and responsibility.

What are the most commonly searched types of Radiopharmaceutical jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Radiopharmaceutical jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Radiopharmaceutical jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Associate Radiopharmaceutical jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Radiopharmaceutical jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Radiopharmaceutical jobs in Chicago, IL are:

PET Technologist

Chicago Ridge, IL • On-site


The US Oncology Network
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 109 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

379th of 895 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


$31 - $64/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Overview
Join Affiliated Oncologists as a PET Technologist!
AO specializes in treating a variety of cancers including lymphoma lung, breast, prostate, gynecologic, colorectal and head and neck cancers. Our physicians and staff are multi-disciplinary team of highly experienced caregivers focused on helping patients and their families receive the best care and support possible.
SCOPE: Under general supervision, performs PET imaging procedures and related functions. Collaborates with Medical Director and management on technical issues, equipment performance and QA. Supports and adheres to the US Oncology Compliance Program, to include the Code of Ethics and Business Standards.
Responsibilities
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
-Performs PET scan procedures to include injection of radiopharmaceutical, setup of protocol, reconstruction and development of images, coordination of image on report function and archiving of images.
-Assists in procedure scheduling and related front office functions to ensure smooth workflow.
-Ensures accuracy of patient demographic information, report distribution and patient files.
-Assists with collection of clinical data for patient follow-up and development of teaching and educational information.
-Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
-Associate's or Bachelors degree in nuclear medicine technology from an AMA accredited program required.
-Minimum three to five years experience in nuclear medicine and/or previous PET experience strongly preferred.
-CNMT (Certified Nuclear Medicine Technologist) and/or ARRT (N) certification and state licensure required where applicable.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physical demands of this job typically require full range of body motion including manual and finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination for operation and repair of all department equipment. Lifts and carries items weighing up to 50 pounds. Lifts and pushes patients in wheelchairs/stretchers weighing up to 300 pounds and places in appropriate positions for operation of equipment. Requires ability to reach above shoulder height. Requires sitting/standing for extensive periods of time. Requires corrected vision and hearing to normal range.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to direct contact with patients with potential for exposure to blood, toxic substances, ionizing radiation and other conditions common to a clinic environment.
HOURLY RANGE:
  • $31 - $64 per hour

BENEFITS OFFERED:
  • Medical
  • Healthcare Reimbursement Accounts (HRCA)
  • Health Savings Accounts (HAS)
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability (STD)
  • Long-Term Disability (LTD)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Commuter Benefits
  • 401(k)
  • Wellness Program

Applicants will be hired into the title appropriate to their credentials and years of experience.


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