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Radiation Protection Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

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Radiation Protection information

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How much do radiation protection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for radiation protection in New Mexico is $41.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.02 and $52.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is radiation protection?

Radiation protection professionals, also known as health physicists or radiation safety officers, are specialists who ensure the safe use of radiation and radioactive materials in medical, industrial, research, and nuclear settings. Their primary responsibility is to protect people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation by monitoring exposure levels, implementing safety protocols, and ensuring regulatory compliance. They also educate staff, respond to radiation emergencies, and maintain records of radiation usage and incidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in radiation protection?

To thrive in Radiation Protection, you need a solid understanding of radiation physics, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a degree in health physics, nuclear engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with dosimetry equipment, radiation detection instruments, and certifications such as Certified Health Physicist (CHP) are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals assess hazards and convey safety information clearly. These skills are essential to ensure the safe use of radioactive materials and protect workers and the public from radiation exposure.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in radiation protection, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Radiation Protection often encounter challenges such as staying updated with evolving safety regulations, effectively communicating risks to non-technical staff, and ensuring strict compliance in fast-paced or high-risk environments. Addressing these challenges involves continuous professional development, clear documentation, and regular training sessions for all personnel. Building strong collaboration with other departments and maintaining open communication channels also help in fostering a culture of safety and compliance.

What is the difference between Radiation Protection vs Radiation Technologist?

AspectRadiation ProtectionRadiation Technologist
CertificationsCertified Health Physicist, Radiation Safety OfficerARRT Certification, Radiologic Technologist License
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, medical, nuclear facilities focusing on safety protocolsHospitals, clinics performing diagnostic imaging
Primary FocusEnsuring safety and compliance with radiation regulationsPerforming diagnostic imaging procedures

Radiation Protection professionals focus on safety, compliance, and radiation risk management, often working in regulatory or industrial settings. Radiation Technologists primarily operate imaging equipment in medical environments. While both roles involve radiation, their responsibilities, certifications, and work environments differ significantly.

How hard is it to become a radiation protection technician?

Becoming a radiation protection technician typically requires completing a relevant post-secondary program or certification, gaining knowledge of radiation safety principles, and often obtaining state or federal licensing or certification. The job involves understanding radiation hazards, using detection tools, and following safety protocols, which requires technical training and attention to detail.

How to get a job in radiation protection?

To get a job in radiation protection, candidates typically need a relevant degree such as health physics, radiological science, or a related field, along with certification like the Certified Health Physicist (CHP) or Radiation Safety Officer (RSO). Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in medical, industrial, or research settings is also valuable. Strong understanding of radiation safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and safety equipment is essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Radiation Protection jobs in New Mexico?

The most popular types of Radiation Protection jobs in New Mexico are:

What are popular job titles related to Radiation Protection jobs in New Mexico?

For Radiation Protection jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Radiation Protection jobs in New Mexico look for?

The top searched job categories for Radiation Protection jobs in New Mexico are:

What cities in New Mexico are hiring for Radiation Protection jobs?

Cities in New Mexico with the most Radiation Protection job openings:

Infographic showing various Radiation Protection job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,058 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Operations Support Specialist Radiation Protection

Coastal International Security

Los Alamos, NM โ€ข On-site

$65 - $70/hr

Other

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Operations Support Specialist 4 - Radiation Protection / Construction (DOE/LANL)

Location: Los Alamos, NM | TA-55, PF-4 (Plutonium Facility) | Tech Area 51-0174 | 100% Onsite

Compensation: $65 - $70/hr

Schedule: 4x10s

Duration: Up to 3 years, with possibility of extension or conversion

Travel: Long-term travel required

Per Diem / Relocation: Per diem available for long-term travel

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship Required

Clearance: DOE Q Clearance required; no prior clearance needed to start

Why This Role

Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking a Senior Operations Support Specialist to support critical construction and radiological operations within a DOE Hazard Category II nuclear facility. This role is ideal for professionals who combine deep Radiation Protection experience with construction execution background and can operate as a technical leader across complex, high hazard projects, ensuring safety, compliance, and mission success at LANL's TA-55 Plutonium Facility.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide Radiation Protection oversight and technical support for construction and field activities within a DOE Category II nuclear facility
  • Support project teams, engineers, and construction crews in maintaining safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence
  • Coordinate closely with facility operations, safety, and project management staff throughout the project lifecycle
  • Ensure work is executed in accordance with DOE and LANL radiological and nuclear safety requirements
  • Communicate clearly and collaboratively across technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Support long-term field assignments, including extended travel as required by project needs

Required Qualifications

  • S. Citizenship required
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q Clearance
  • Demonstrated experience in DOE construction environments
  • Demonstrated experience in a DOE Category II Nuclear Facility
  • Demonstrated experience in a DOE Plutonium Facility
  • No degree required, bachelor's degree or equivalent experience acceptable
  • Strong communication skills, both oral and written
  • Strong collaboration and organizational skills

Desired Skills

  • Navy Nuclear program background highly desired
  • Experience operating as a technical leader on complex, high hazard nuclear facility projects
  • Ability to manage competing priorities across field and construction activities

Education and Experience Requirements

  • No specific degree required; BS or equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
  • No specific certifications required
  • No specific software knowledge requirements

Mandatory Requirements - Read Before Applying

  • Demonstrated DOE construction experience required, candidates without this will not be considered
  • Demonstrated DOE Category II Nuclear Facility experience required, candidates without this will not be considered
  • Demonstrated experience in a DOE Plutonium Facility required, candidates without this will not be considered
  • Must be willing and able to work 100% onsite in Los Alamos, NM, including long-term travel as needed