Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Class Specifications – H.20

Nuclear Medicine Technologist – 9004
Nuclear Medicine Technologist Per Diem – 9009
Senior Nuclear Medicine Technologist – 9003
Senior Nuclear Medicine Technologist Per Diem – 9006
Principal Nuclear Medicine Technologist – 8811
Principal Nuclear Medicine Technologist Per Diem – 4430
Nuclear Medicine Technologist Trainee – 9005

April 1982 Titles Updated July 2026

Series Concept

Nuclear Medicine Technologists collaborate with physicians and healthcare teams to provide high-quality diagnostic services that support patient care and treatment planning. They perform diagnostic imaging procedures using radioactive materials to help diagnose and treat medical conditions. They prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals, operate specialized imaging equipment, and follow strict safety protocols to protect patients and staff from radiation exposure. They accurately record imaging data, collect, prepare and analyze biologic specimens, and prepare information for interpretation. Additional responsibilities include performing radiation safety and quality control procedures on Nuclear Medicine equipment, and participating in quality assurance and patient radiation safety activities.

The distinction between levels is based on the scope and/or complexity of procedures performed, experience level, and competency. At Principal and Senior levels, additional responsibilities may include participating in clinical protocol development and implementation, orientation, training, serving as a lead, coordinator, or providing instruction on specialty procedures.

Class Concepts

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Under supervision, incumbents perform a variety of in-vivo or in-vitro procedures utilizing radiopharmaceuticals in accordance with established Nuclear Medicine guidelines and protocols. Technologists may perform other duties described in the series concept with guidance from higher-level technologists.

This is the entry level in the series; however, positions may be assigned to this level on a continuing basis.

Senior Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Senior Nuclear Medicine Technologists perform the full range of nuclear medicine procedures utilizing radioactive materials and in accordance with established Nuclear Medicine guidelines and protocols.

This is the operational level and requires a high degree of technical competence and judgment.

Principal Nuclear Medicine Technologist

The principal technologist is licensed in all scopes of practice as defined by the State of California Radiologic Health Branch (RHB), and performs routine to complex diagnostic and therapeutic nuclear medicine procedures to assist in diagnosis and/or treatment in both inpatient and outpatient settings. The technologist must be able to work safely in an acute care setting, interacting and coordinating with anesthesia and other patient care departments.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist Trainee

The Nuclear Medicine Technologist Trainee will participate in a comprehensive, one-year training program designed to develop proficiency in a wide range of nuclear medicine procedures, including diagnostic imaging, therapeutic applications, and research. The program includes didactic coursework, supervised clinical rotations, competency-based assessments, and radiation safety education. Training is progressive and hands-on, aligning with the educational and certification standards set by JRCNMT, ARRT, and NMTCB. The trainee role prepares current healthcare professionals or students with science backgrounds for NMTCB certification, ARRT(N) eligibility, and state licensure.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants for positions in the Nuclear Medicine Technologist series are expected to possess the skills, knowledge, and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to positions.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Recent graduate of an accredited Nuclear Medicine training program. Certification as Nuclear Medicine Technologists (CTNM) with the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART (N), CA Department of Public Health, Certified Technologist, Nuclear Medicine License.

Senior Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Graduate of an accredited Nuclear Medicine training program. Certification as Nuclear Medicine Technologists (CTNM) with the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART (N)), CA Department of Public Health, Certified Technologist, Nuclear Medicine License and BLS Certification. Experience with the full range of Nuclear Medicine procedures and technology.

Principal Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Graduate of an accredited Nuclear Medicine training program. Certification as Nuclear Medicine Technologists (CTNM) with the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART (N)), CA Department of Public Health, Certified Technologist, Nuclear Medicine License and BLS Certification. Minimum 7 years’ experience as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist.