The primary function of the per diem physics assistant position is to assist and work under the direct supervision of Qualified Medical Physicists to implement solutions for well defined and focused tasks in the clinics. These include IMRT treatment quality assurance, radiation dose calculations, measurements on treatment units, computer programming, as well as collection and processing of treatment related data. For suitable and motivated candidates, this position may be an excellent step towards medical physics positions such as medical dosimetrists or junior staff physicists. The position has direct report to the chief of dosimetry, and ultimately to the chief of Medical Physics & Biophysics.
Principal duties and responsibilities
A. Assist IMRT quality assurance
The candidate will work with the team using intensity modulation radiation therapy approach to perform QA tests as part of the clinical and billing requirements:
1) IMRT QA. Patient specific IMRT QA
Assist in experimental verification of IMRT
Scan IMRT films and perform comparison with plan
Compare measured vs DynaLog IMRT fluences
B. Dosimetry duties
Perform and document quality assurance (QA) activities including, but not limited to, measurements involving radiation devices and equipment, e.g. medical (linear) accelerators. Any discrepancies must be communicated to the appropriate staff in a timely manner to minimize delays in patient treatments and/or miscommunications.
Supervise, maintain, and properly use dosimetry equipment such as ion chambers, electrometers, water phantom scanning systems, daily check devices, ion chamber arrays, electronic QA devices, computers used with equipment, computer software, thermometers, barometers, small tool inventory, etc. The Medical Physics Assistant is expected to assist the Qualified Medical Physicist in annual measurements and calibrations.
Maintains an orderly lab for the storage and use of physics equipment.
Participate in a technical capacity to assess and improve equipment and procedures that relate to quality assurance. This may include but is not limited to providing QA and QC of patient specific hardware, such as apertures and range compensators for cases involving protons. Lifting brass apertures, range compensators and treatment equipment weighing as much as 50 lbs is expected.
Participates in research and development projects in collaboration with Medical Physicists and other department researchers under the direction of the supervising physicist.
Perform supportive service to the planning group through processing imaging data to be used for treatment planning and dose calculations.
Participate in other technical activities, under the direction of a Qualified Medical Physicist, in order to ensure coverage during critical staff shortages.
C. Other duties
1) Assist in documentation of brachytherapy and radiation safety data and records.
2) Assist with calibration of brachytherapy applicators and equipment
3) Assist with brachytherapy seed loading during operating room procedures
4) Assist with any other duties related to the physics operation as appropriate.
Qualifications
Qualifications:
A. Education
Minimum formal education for per diem physics assistant is a Bachelors' degree, preferably in physical sciences with computer programming background. Graduate level education in physical sciences is an advantage.
EEO Statement
BWH is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.
