Radiation Protection Officer (RPO)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an international organization that works to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons. Established in 1957, the IAEA has a mission to ensure that nuclear energy is used safely and securely, and to support global efforts in nuclear safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The organization operates in over 180 countries and employs a diverse workforce of professionals dedicated to its mission.

Job Overview:
The Radiation Protection Officer (RPO) plays a critical role in ensuring that all laboratory work involving radioactive materials is conducted safely and securely, adhering to both IAEA regulations and local safety requirements. The RPO is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the laboratory radiation protection program and ensuring compliance with established safety regulations. This position requires a proactive approach to safety, as the RPO will coordinate safety measures, provide training, and ensure that all laboratory staff are adequately prepared to handle radioactive materials. The RPO will also act as a liaison between the laboratory and external regulatory bodies, ensuring that all practices involving ionizing radiation are authorized and monitored appropriately. This role is essential in maintaining a culture of safety within the laboratory environment and ensuring that all operations are conducted in a manner that protects both workers and the public.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The RPO's responsibilities include but are not limited to: acting as the primary point of contact for radiation protection and nuclear security matters; supervising the safe handling of nuclear materials and hazardous chemicals; controlling occupational exposure to radiation; organizing and implementing training programs for laboratory staff; conducting evaluations of radiation doses received by staff; preparing and updating radiation protection procedures; conducting laboratory audits; and liaising with local authorities regarding safety and security agreements. The RPO must also ensure that emergency contingency plans are in place and that staff are trained to respond effectively to incidents involving radioactive materials. Additionally, the RPO will be responsible for preparing applications for authorization of radiation practices and conducting risk analyses as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree in Health Physics, Nuclear Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a related discipline. Alternatively, a Bachelor's Degree in the same fields combined with two years of relevant experience may be considered. The position requires at least 7 years of professional experience in radiation protection, with a minimum of 5 years specifically in the role of a radiation protection officer. Experience in organizing and operating radiation protection programs, performing safety analyses, and training workers in radiation safety is essential. Laboratory experience in applying safety standards to radiation practices is also required.

Educational Background:
A Master's Degree in Health Physics, Nuclear Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a related discipline is required. A Bachelor's Degree in these fields may be accepted if accompanied by additional relevant experience. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in the principles of radiation safety and nuclear security, as well as practical applications in laboratory settings.

Experience:
The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in radiation protection, with at least 5 years in a role specifically focused on radiation protection officer responsibilities. This experience should include the organization and operation of radiation protection programs, conducting safety analyses, and training laboratory staff in radiation safety protocols. Familiarity with chemical laboratory activities involving open alpha-emitting radionuclides and hazardous chemicals is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The IAEA offers a competitive remuneration package, including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at approximately US $77,326, along with a variable post adjustment and various benefits such as dependency benefits, rental subsidies, and education grants. Employees are entitled to 6 weeks of annual leave, home leave travel, and are covered by a pension plan and health insurance. The IAEA is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries. The appointment is subject to a satisfactory medical report, and staff members may be assigned to any location as per the IAEA's rotation policy.