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Radiation Physicist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Radiation Physicist Location: Orange Coast Medical Center Department: Radiology Therapeutic Status: Full Time Shift: Days (8hr) Pay Range*: $205,000/annually - $298,000/annually MemorialCare is a ...

Radiation Physicist Location: Orange Coast Medical Center Department: Radiology Therapeutic Status: Full Time Shift: Days (8hr) Pay Range: $98.00/hr - $143.00/hr Position Summary Under the guidance ...

Radiation Physicist

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

$205K - $298K/yr

Radiation Physicist Location: Orange Coast Medical Center Department: Radiology Therapeutic Status: Full Time Shift: Days (8hr) Pay Range*: $205,000/annually - $298,000/annually MemorialCare is a ...

Radiation Physicist

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

$205K - $298K/yr

Radiation Physicist Location: Orange Coast Medical Center Department: Radiology Therapeutic Status: Full Time Shift: Days (8hr) Pay Range*: $205,000/annually - $298,000/annually MemorialCare is a ...

Radiation Physicist Location: Orange Coast Medical Center Department: Radiology Therapeutic Status: Full Time Shift: Days (8hr) Pay Range*: $205,000/annually - $298,000/annually MemorialCare is a ...

Radiation Physicist Location: Long Beach Medical Center Department: Radiation Oncology Status: Full Time Shift: Days (8hr) Pay Range*: $205,000/annually - $298,000/annually MemorialCare is a ...

Radiation Physicist Location: Long Beach Medical Center Department: Radiation Oncology Status: Full Time Shift: Days (8hr) Pay Range*: $205,000/annually - $298,000/annually MemorialCare is a ...

Radiation Physicist

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$205 - $298/hr

Radiation Physicist Location: Long Beach Medical Center Department: Radiation Oncology Status: Full Time Shift: Days (8hr) Pay Range*: $205,000/annually - $298,000/annually MemorialCare is a ...

Radiation Physicist

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$205K - $298K/yr

Radiation Physicist Location: Long Beach Medical Center Department: Radiation Oncology Status: Full Time Shift: Days (8hr) Pay Range*: $205,000/annually - $298,000/annually MemorialCare is a ...

Radiation Physicist

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$205K - $298K/yr

Radiation Physicist Location: Long Beach Medical Center Department: Radiation Oncology Status: Full Time Shift: Days (8hr) Pay Range*: $205,000/annually - $298,000/annually MemorialCare is a ...

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Radiation Physicist information

See California salary details

$39K

$93.6K

$223.5K

How much do radiation physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for radiation physicist in California is $93,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a radiation physicist?

Radiation Physicists are specialized scientists who study and apply the principles of physics to the safe use of radiation in medicine, industry, and research. In healthcare, they play a crucial role in ensuring the accurate delivery of radiation treatments for patients, such as in cancer therapy. They are responsible for calibrating equipment, monitoring radiation exposure, developing safety protocols, and collaborating with other medical professionals. Their expertise helps protect patients and staff from unnecessary exposure while maximizing the effectiveness of radiation-based procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a radiation physicist?

To thrive as a Radiation Physicist, you need a solid background in physics or medical physics, typically supported by a relevant master's or doctoral degree and, often, board certification. Familiarity with radiation dosimetry tools, treatment planning systems, and regulatory compliance software is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate radiation delivery, patient safety, and effective collaboration with medical teams.

What are some common challenges radiation physicists face when ensuring compliance with safety regulations in clinical settings?

Radiation Physicists often encounter challenges in maintaining up-to-date compliance with evolving safety regulations and protocols, particularly as new technologies and treatment techniques are introduced. They must continuously monitor equipment performance, document quality assurance processes, and educate staff on safe practices. Collaboration with regulatory bodies, healthcare providers, and technical staff is essential to ensure all safety standards are met, which can be demanding, especially in busy clinical environments with tight schedules and multiple stakeholders.

What is the difference between Radiation Physicist vs Medical Physicist?

AspectRadiation PhysicistMedical Physicist
CredentialsMaster's or Doctorate in Physics, certification in health physics or medical physicsMaster's or Doctorate in Medical Physics, board certification (ABR or CAMPEP)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, nuclear facilities, radiation safety departmentsHospitals, clinics, cancer treatment centers
Industry UsageResearch institutions, government agencies, nuclear power plantsHealthcare, cancer treatment, diagnostic imaging

While both roles require advanced degrees and certifications, Radiation Physicists primarily focus on radiation safety, research, and nuclear applications, whereas Medical Physicists specialize in applying physics principles to diagnose and treat patients with radiation therapy. The work environments and industry applications differ, with Medical Physicists working mainly in healthcare settings to support patient care.

How much do radiation physicists make in the US?

Radiation physicists in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $90,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in medical or research settings, requiring advanced degrees and specialized training in radiation safety and medical physics.

What are popular job titles related to Radiation Physicist jobs in California?

For Radiation Physicist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Radiation Physicist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Radiation Physicist job openings:

Infographic showing various Radiation Physicist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,563 per year, or $45 per hour.

Radiation Physicist

Fountain Valley, CA


memorial care
Hospitals • 5 - 10K employees

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 895 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


$205K - $298K/yr

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Title: Radiation Physicist

Location: Orange Coast Medical Center

Department: Radiology Therapeutic

Status: Full Time

Shift: Days (8hr)

Pay Range*: $205,000/annually - $298,000/annually

MemorialCare is a nonprofit integrated health system that includes four leading hospitals, award-winning medical groups - consisting of over 200 sites of care, and more than 2,000 physicians throughout Orange and Los Angeles Counties. We are committed to increasing access to patient-centric, affordable, and high-quality healthcare; your personal contributions are integral to MemorialCare's recognition as a market leader and innovator in value-based and other care models.

Across our family of medical centers, we support each one of our bright, talented employees in reaching the highest levels of professional development, contribution, collaboration, and accountability. Whatever your role and whatever expertise you bring, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your full potential in an environment of respect, innovation, and teamwork.

Position Summary

Under the guidance and oversight of the Physicist Lead, the Radiation Physicist supports the safe, accurate, and effective use of therapeutic radiation in the treatment of cancer patients. This position collaborates closely with physicians, dosimetrists, therapists, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure high-quality treatment planning, radiation dose delivery, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance. The Radiation Physicist actively participates in departmental quality and safety initiatives and supports accreditation and regulatory standards.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities of the Job

        Perform and document quality assurance (daily, monthly, annual) testing of radiation therapy equipment in accordance with AAPM/ASTRO guidelines, Title 17, and Joint Commission standards.

        Review and validate patient treatment plans to ensure accuracy, adherence to physician prescription, and protection of critical structures.

        Support treatment planning activities including 3D Conformal, IMRT, IGRT, SRS/SBRT, HDR brachytherapy, and other modalities as applicable.

        Perform dosimetric measurements, machine calibration checks, and chart reviews to maintain a high level of clinical accuracy and safety.

        Support radiation safety processes in coordination with the Physicist Lead, including adherence to the Radiation Safety Program and California Radiation Control Regulations (Title 17).

        Assist with preparation, documentation, and data support for regulatory surveys, audits, and accreditation activities (e.g., Joint Commission, ACR).

        Follow departmental policies and procedures related to the therapeutic use of radiation and radioactive materials.

        Collaborate with radiation oncologists, dosimetrists, therapists, nursing, and other disciplines to ensure safe operations and optimal patient outcomes.

        Participate in education and training of hospital personnel, radiation therapy staff, residents, and students as assigned.

        Communicate findings, recommendations, and issues clearly and professionally to the Physicist Lead and interdisciplinary team.

        Participate in departmental quality improvement initiatives, incident reviews, and process evaluations related to radiation therapy services.

        Assist with commissioning, testing, and evaluation of new technology under the direction of the Physicist Lead.

        Support accurate documentation and collaboration with billing workflows to ensure appropriate charge capture for physics-related services.

        Ability to be at work and be on time.

        Ability to follow company policies, procedures and directives.

        Ability to interact in a positive and constructive manner.

        Ability to prioritize and multitask.

*Placement in the pay range is based on multiple factors including, but not limited to, relevant years of experience and qualifications. In addition to base pay, there may be additional compensation available for this role, including but not limited to, shift differentials, extra shift incentives, and bonus opportunities. Health and wellness is our passion at MemorialCare-that includes taking good care of employees and their dependents. We offer high quality health insurance plan options, so you can select the best choice for your family. And there's more...Check out our MemorialCare Benefits for more information about our Benefits and Rewards.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications/Work Experience:

        Minimum of 3 years of clinical experience in radiation therapy physics preferred.

        Demonstrated experience with machine quality assurance, treatment planning support, chart checks, and radiation safety principles preferred.

Education/Licensure/Certification:

        Master's degree or PhD in Medical Physics or related field required.

        ABR or ABMP certification in Therapeutic Medical Physics required.



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