Environmental Scientist (Health Physicist)
FT / PT Status - Full-Time
Salary - $25.27 - $52.56 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office - Hybrid
Recruiter - Coral Ortega caortega@utah.gov
Application Deadline - 6/30/2026 6:00 PM MDT
The Department of Environmental Quality is looking to fill an Environmental Scientist (Health Physicist) position in the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control. This position may be filled at any of the advertised levels listed below. Salary depends on experience and the job level offered within the series.
Key Responsibilities
- Evaluate requests to license radioactive materials in the State of Utah in a way that protects human health, safety, and the environment in accordance with the applicable laws.
- Inspect radioactive material licensees for compliance with applicable laws and license conditions.
- Actively solve problems in a professional, responsive, and fair manner that is supported by science and the law.
- Effectively communicate and professionally engage with a variety of stakeholders, including but not limited to colleagues in the Division, Division leadership, State and Federal Government employees, regulated entities, and the public.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
- Working knowledge of nuclear physics and knowledge of associated terms, including modes of decay and interactions of both penetrating and non-penetrating radiation.
- Experience and/or education dealing with radioactive materials.
- Knowledge of biological effects of radioactive material and associated internal dosimetry.
- Ability to perform calculations pertaining to radiation dose, shielding and risk analysis associated with operating procedures.
- Knowledge of operation and calibration parameters of radiation detection instrumentation for both penetrating and non-penetrating radiation including knowledge of analytical instrumentation and procedures.
- Familiarity with the operation and control features of equipment containing radioactive materials, medical terms and technology associated with production, use and security of radiation.
- Ability to store, handle and transport sources of radioactive material in a safe manner.
- Knowledge of radioactive waste management techniques and regulations.
- Knowledge of the design and function of sealed sources and devices containing radioactive material.
- Ability to thoroughly assess the potential impact of facility design and operating procedures on people and the environment for industrial, academic and medical facilities.
- Knowledge of principles, practices and administration of radiation safety programs including systems, processes and the application of statutes, rules and standards governing such programs.
- Knowledge of the Utah Radiation Control rules and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulations and guides.
- Strong communication skills and ability to communicate scientific and technical information both orally and in writing to a broad range of audiences.
Preferred Qualifications:
- A bachelor's degree or higher in health physics, physics, chemistry, geology, hydrology, engineering, or a closely related field.
- Certified by the American Academy of Heath Physics as a Certified Health Physicist, Registered with the National Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
Job Series
The selected candidate for this position may be brought in as an Environmental Scientist I with a salary range of $25.27- $37.95, an Environmental Scientist II with a salary range of $29.73 - $44.66 per hour, or an Environmental Scientist III with a salary range of $34.98 - $52.56 per hour.
Work Location
This position may be eligible for a hybrid of both in-office/hybrid work schedule (2 days a week required in office and any mandatory in office meetings) and remote work days (work must be performed in Utah). Our office is located at 195North 1950 West, Salt Lake City, Utah. A position's eligibility for remote work is established by agency management and is subject to change at their discretion at any time and for any reason. Note: Under Administrative Rule R13-4 all work must be performed within the State of Utah. As such employees should either reside in Utah or be in the process of relocating to within 30 days of their start date.
Supplemental Information
- Risks which require the use of special safety precautions and/or equipment, e.g., working around operating machines, working with contagious diseases or hazardous chemicals, etc.
- Work requires physical exertion. May require the ability to stand; walk over rough surfaces; bend, crouch, stoop,stretch, reach, lift moderately heavy items (up to 50 lbs.) in a recurring manner and/or for long periods of time.
About the Role
Location -
195 North 1950 West
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84116
United States
Background Check Required - You must successfully pass a criminal history check.
Drug Test Required - No
Schedule Code - B - Competitive Career Service
Why You Should Join Our TeamIn Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:
- Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
- Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
- Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
- Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.
The AgencyFor more information about the Department of Environmental Quality and the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control click here.
EEO StatementThe State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.