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Nuclear Health Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apave

810 - Nuclear Health Physicist

Houston, TX

Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in health physics, Radiological Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related field. 3-7+ years of experience in U.S. radiation protection, nuclear operations ...

Apave

810 - Nuclear Health Physicist

Houston, TX · On-site

Required Qualifications • Bachelor's degree in health physics, Radiological Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related field. • 3-7+ years of experience in U.S. radiation protection, nuclear ...

General Atomics

Health Physics Manager V

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $257K/yr

Responsible for other non-traditional Health Physics duties to include nuclear/radiologic related Company licensing actions and liaison with corresponding government regulatory agencies. Duties ...

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How much do nuclear health physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear health physics in the United States is $51.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.18 and $62.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I do with a nuclear physics degree?

A nuclear health physics degree prepares individuals for roles in radiation safety, radiation protection, and regulatory compliance within nuclear facilities, hospitals, or research institutions. Graduates often work as health physicists, conducting radiation surveys, developing safety protocols, and ensuring compliance with safety standards, sometimes requiring certifications like the Certified Health Physicist credential.

What can you do with a health physics degree?

A health physics degree prepares individuals for roles in radiation safety, radiation protection, and nuclear facility oversight. Professionals in this field often work in hospitals, nuclear power plants, research institutions, or regulatory agencies, utilizing skills in radiation measurement, safety protocols, and compliance. Certification such as the Certified Health Physicist (CHP) can enhance career opportunities.

What does a nuclear health physicist do?

A nuclear health physicist is responsible for ensuring the safe use of radioactive materials and radiation-producing devices. They monitor radiation levels, develop safety protocols, and ensure compliance with regulations to protect workers and the public in environments such as hospitals, research facilities, or nuclear power plants. Certification and knowledge of radiation safety standards are essential for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Nuclear Health Physics, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in Nuclear Health Physics often encounter challenges such as ensuring compliance with complex regulatory standards, accurately monitoring radiation exposure, and effectively communicating risks to non-specialist staff. These challenges are typically addressed through ongoing training, collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and the use of advanced radiation detection and monitoring technologies. Building strong relationships with regulatory bodies and fostering a culture of safety within the organization are also crucial for overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Nuclear Health Physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Health Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, radiation protection, and health physics, usually supported by a relevant science degree and certifications such as Certified Health Physicist (CHP). Familiarity with radiation detection instruments, dosimetry systems, and regulatory compliance software is essential. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safety of personnel and the environment by effectively monitoring, assessing, and managing radiation hazards.

What is Nuclear Health Physics?

Nuclear Health Physics is the field focused on protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation while making it possible to safely use radioactive materials. Health physicists monitor radiation levels, ensure regulatory compliance, develop safety protocols, and educate workers on best practices. Their work is critical in medical, industrial, research, and nuclear power settings to minimize radiation exposure and ensure public safety.

How much do nuclear physicists get paid?

Nuclear health physics professionals typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced specialists with certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in research or regulatory roles.

What is the difference between Nuclear Health Physics vs Radiation Safety Officer?

AspectNuclear Health PhysicsRadiation Safety Officer
CredentialsCertification in health physics, such as CHPH or CHPRadiation safety training, often with certifications like RSO certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, nuclear power plants, research labsIndustrial sites, medical facilities, regulatory agencies
Industry UsagePrimarily in healthcare, nuclear industry, researchAcross industries with radiation exposure concerns

Both roles focus on radiation safety but differ in scope and setting. Nuclear Health Physicists typically work in healthcare and research environments, focusing on radiation protection and compliance. Radiation Safety Officers often oversee safety programs across various industries, ensuring regulatory adherence. While their certifications and work environments overlap, their specific responsibilities and industry focus distinguish them.

More about Nuclear Health Physics jobs
What states have the most Nuclear Health Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Health Physics jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Health Physics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Health Physics jobs are:
Nuclear Health Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Health Physics job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,964 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

810 - Nuclear Health Physicist

Apave

Houston, TX

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description


Position Summary:


The Nuclear Health Physicist leads and supports radiation protection programs across U.S. nuclear, industrial radiological, or federal operations. The role ensures compliance with U.S. regulatory requirements, maintains ALARA-focused work planning, and provides technical expertise for radiological engineering, characterization, and operational safety.
Key Responsibilities
Maintain and improve radiation protection programs in accordance with U.S. federal and state regulations, including NRC, DOE, DOD, OSHA, EPA, and DOT requirements.
Conduct radiological hazard assessments, shielding evaluations, dose modeling, and exposure pathway analyses.
Lead ALARA reviews, radiological engineering controls, and work planning for highhazard or complex radiological tasks.
Perform and interpret surveys, contamination assessments, air sampling, and environmental monitoring.
Review and approve RWPs, procedures, technical basis documents, and radiological work packages.
Support incident investigations, rootcause analysis, and corrective action development.
Manage dosimetry programs, dose tracking, and exposure trend analysis.
Provide technical guidance to Radiation Protection Technicians, operations teams, and project managers.
Deliver training on U.S. regulatory compliance, radiological safety, and emergency response.
Support waste characterization, packaging, and transportation under DOT, NRC, and disposal facility requirements.
Interface with U.S. regulators, auditors, and external stakeholders during inspections and program reviews.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in health physics, Radiological Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related field.
3-7+ years of experience in U.S. radiation protection, nuclear operations, or radiological engineering.
Strong working knowledge of 10 CFR, DOE O 458.1, MARSSIM, NUREG guidance, and ALARA principles.
Proficiency with radiation detection instruments, survey techniques, and radiological analysis tools.
Ability to interpret technical data and produce defensible documentation for U.S. regulatory environments.
Ability to obtain and maintain site access, background checks, and medical qualifications.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in Health Physics or related discipline.
CHP or NRRPT certification (or active pursuit).
Experience in DOE cleanup, D&D, commercial nuclear, NORM/TENORM, or industrial radiography environments.
Familiarity with MCNP, MicroShield, or similar modeling software.
Experience supporting advanced decontamination technologies, including laser ablation or precision characterization systems.
What We Offer
Competitive U.S. market compensation and performancebased incentives.
Comprehensive health, retirement, and professional development benefits.
Opportunities for advancement into senior HP, project management, or program leadership roles.
A safetydriven culture with strong technical support and investment in continuous improvement.


NOTE: To be considered, applicants must be able to provide documentation of current or previous certifications, as well as all classroom and/or on-the-job training (OJT) hours required for certification.

*** Apave America Inc. is an equal opportunity employer that prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, and other protected characteristics. ***

We make hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees.


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