Nuclear Medicine Specialist I (#RH5101)
$36.94-$44.90 Hourly / $6,403.44-$7,783.42 Monthly / $76,841.31-$93,401.10 Yearly

Under general supervision, performs a variety of technical procedures in the utilization of radionuclides; and does related or other work as required in accordance with Rule 3, Section 3, of the Civil Service Rules.

The Nuclear Medicine Specialist is the entry level in the Nuclear Medicine Specialist series. Incumbents are capable of operating routine radioisotopic equipment to obtain information for use by physicians in diagnosing patient's illnesses. Work is performed under the supervision of the Diagnostic Imaging Manager and Radiologist following medical prescriptions and instructions.

• Calculates, prepares, calibrates and administers dosages of radiopharmaceuticals; assures quality control of radiopharmaceutical and corresponding equipment.
• Positions patients according to prescribed safety standards; shields patients as required; selects and uses proper immobilization and supportive devices when necessary.
• Performs computerized analysis and manipulation of readings; posts results of test to proper forms and routes to physician for interpretation; reviews films for proper identification and quality checks.
• Maintains adequate records of radioisotope receipt, storage, use and disposal in accordance with State and Federal regulations.
• Performs daily instrument calibration procedures sufficient to affirm proper performance.
• May perform routine diagnostic examinations and assist with fluoroscopic and special radiographic procedures, if certified as a Radiologic Technologist.

License: Certification by the Department of Health, State of California, as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist.

Methods and techniques of nuclear medicine; basic anatomy and physiology at a sufficient level to allow proper positioning; principles of nuclear physics, properties of radionuclides; hazards of radioactive material and safety precautions required; use and care of radioisoptopic equipment, and methods for handling radiopharmaceutical.

Position requires sitting, standing, manual dexterity; bending or stooping and lifting of patients; understand and carry out complex oral and written instruction in exact detail; perform a variety of routine and complex diagnostic nuclear procedures; operate equipment; prepare radionuclides for injection; analyze films and evaluate problems; perform quality assurance activities; establish and maintain effective relationships with patients, physicians, and co-workers.

Physical and Mental Requirements-Keyboard, standing for long periods of time, walking, pushing/pulling, and operation of heavy equipment; occasional sitting for long periods of time and stair climbing; Frequency of Lifting-Constant lifting of 5 lbs. or less; frequent restraining, lifting/turning heavy objects or people; occasional lifting of 5 to above 70 lbs; Visual Requirements-Constant need for overall vision, hand/eye coordination and reading/close up work; frequent need for color perception, depth perception and field of vision; Dexterity-Constant holding, reaching and grasping; frequent writing; Hearing/Talking-Constant hearing of normal speech and talking in person; frequent hearing on the telephone/radio and talking on the radio; occasional hearing of faint sounds; Emotional/Psychological Factors-Constant public contact, decision making, concentration and working alone; frequent exposure to hazardous materials, trauma, grief and death; occasional weekend/night work and overtime/travel; Environmental Conditions-Occasional exposure to hazardous materials.