1

Nuclear Health Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Provide technical assistance as required for the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI), American Nuclear Insurers (ANI) Maintain proficiency in Health Physicist by maintaining Certification with the Health ...

Provide technical assistance as required for the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI), American Nuclear Insurers (ANI) Maintain proficiency in Health Physicist by maintaining Certification with the Health ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Nuclear Health Physics information

See salary details

$19

$51

$77

How much do nuclear health physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 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 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. They often use specialized instruments and hold certifications like the Certified Health Physicist credential.

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 can I do with a health physics degree?

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

What can I do with a degree in nuclear physics?

A degree in nuclear physics can lead to careers in nuclear health physics, where professionals monitor and control radiation exposure in medical, research, or industrial settings. These roles often involve radiation safety, regulatory compliance, and the use of specialized instruments, and may require certifications such as the Certified Health Physicist credential.

What jobs can a nuclear physicist do?

A nuclear physicist can work in roles such as health physicist, nuclear reactor operator, radiation safety officer, or research scientist. These jobs often involve radiation protection, nuclear energy, medical physics, or scientific research, requiring knowledge of radiation, safety protocols, and specialized equipment.

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.

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:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Health Physics job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,964 per year, or $51.9 per hour.
Certified Health Physicist

Certified Health Physicist

Luminant

Shippingport, PA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

If you have what it takes to become part of the Vistra family and would like to start a promising career with a global leader, take a look at the exciting employment opportunities that are currently available and apply online.

Job Summary

This position is intended as a Career Professional / Technical Position. This position encompasses the long-term progression and retention of an individual from initial entry level through advancement to the most senior level. The intent of the position is to be a long term, non rotational professional position within the department. This position is designed to keep a person engaged with the long-term management of the asset. Because many organizations only have one Certified Health Physicist in the organization, this stepped approach to advancement of is consistent throughout the industry. The individual is responsible for the technical aspects and programmatic oversite of the Bioassay (Whole Body - Organ specific dose assessment), Complex Isotopic Decay Calculations, Dose Assessment (Internal and External), Dosimetry (Internal and External), Exposure Calculations, NEI 07-07 Groundwater, Surface Water, Off-Site Dose Assessment Calculation Manual (ODCM), Radiological Environmental Effluents Program (REMP), Radiological Effluents Technical Specification (RETS), Respiratory Protection, Responds to radiological emergency situations, Radiochemistry, Shielding Design, Waste Handling Procedures including Mixed Hazardous Waste, Performs Dose Assessment activities per the site Emergency Plan, and other assigned duties as required.

Job Description

Key Accountabilities

Provide oversight of solid / liquid / gaseous effluent radiochemical isotopic assessment for plant systems and environmental compliance
Provide oversight of the sampling and analysis of both radiological and non-radiological effluent monitoring, environmental monitoring / sampling of gas / water / oil / waste systems
Interpret, document, trend and report results of radiological analyses,
Provide oversight for the development and maintenance of procedures related to radiological and radiological effluents areas of responsibility,
Provide oversight for the management of data (e.g. record, store and trend radiological data),
Provide guidance to the staff and operating crews to maintain radiological controls within guidelines / limits; recommend corrective actions,
Interface with regulatory bodies on radiological
Provide technical radiological assistance to the RP/Chemistry Manager, RPM, Chemistry Superintendent and RP/Chemistry Staff
Provide technical oversight for the administration, maintenance, calibration, functional and quality control checks on radiological, analytical instrumentation and radioactive sources.
Oversees the daily operations of a radiation safety program to ensure regulatory compliance as mandated by local, state, and federal agencies, including the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Transportation (DOT), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Energy (DOE), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Provide technical assistance as required for the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI), American Nuclear Insurers (ANI)
Maintain proficiency in Health Physicist by maintaining Certification with the Health Physics Society and completing the annual continuing education units (CEU's) as required
Advises the RP/Chemistry Manager regarding radiation safety protocols and procedures to ensure regulatory compliance as mandated by the relevant local, state, and federal regulatory agencies.
Provides technical assistance and guidance on radiological control problems; advises permit holders on radioactive material inventory problems, shielding designs, waste handling procedures, dosimetry, and licensing requirements.
Evaluates programmatic compliance for inventories of radioactive materials and/or hazardous chemicals for storage, transport and disposal.
Responds to emergency situations involving hazardous materials, radiation, or fire and smoke incidents; prepares reports of findings and submits recommendations.
Evaluates programmatic compliance with inventories and testing of radioactive sealed sources
Monitors and instructs radworkers that have received radioactive medical treatments regarding access to the plant
Conducts research to determine appropriate policies and procedures which include inspection standards, safe work methods, decontamination procedures, and radiological emergency procedures.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Education, Experience, & Skill Requirements

Job pay grades will be based on experience and education.

Certified Health Physicist :

  • Bachelor's Degree in Science,
  • Certified by the American Board of Health Physics as a Certified Health Physicist.
  • 6 years of professional Radiation Protection Experience.

Senior Health Physicist:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Science or 10 years of health physics experience.
  • 4 years of professional Radiation Protection experience

Health Physicist:

  • 5 years of professional Radiation Protection Experience.
  • Qualified as a health physics technician per ANSI requirements

Key Metrics

  • Knowledge of transport and disposal procedures for safe handling of hazardous chemicals and/or radioactive materials
  • Ability to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports.
  • Knowledge of radiation safety procedures, standards, and protocols.
  • Ability to develop, implement, and enforce safety programs and protocols.
  • Knowledge of radioactive materials inventory control, shielding designs, waste handling procedures, dosimetry, and/or licensing requirements.
  • Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
  • Knowledge of federal, state and local safety regulations, protocols, and/or procedures.
  • Ability to provide technical guidance and leadership to professional personnel in area of expertise.
  • Ability to calibrate and operate radiation detection instruments.
  • Skill in developing safety procedures and protocols.

Job Family

Plant Operations

Company

Vistra Nuclear Operations Company

Locations

Shippingport, PennsylvaniaPennsylvania
We are a company of people committed to: Exceeding Customer Expectations, Great People, Teamwork, Competitive Spirit and Effective Communication. If this describes you, then apply today!
If you currently work for Vistra or its subsidiaries, please apply via the internal career site.

It is the policy of the Company to comply with all employment laws and to afford equal employment opportunity to individuals in all aspects of employment, including in selection for job opportunities, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military service, protected veteran status, or any other consideration protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance submitting an application or would like to request an accommodation, please email usatassistance@vistraenergy.comtomake a request.