Dosimetrist

Class Specifications – H.20
Senior Dosimetrist – 9007
Dosimetrist – 9008

August, 1977

Series Concept

Dosimetrists develop radiation therapy treatment plans and related mathematical data for therapists’ approval; and perform other related duties as assigned.

Incumbents typically confer with therapists on prescribed dosages; measure and model the contours of the tumor area on the patient’s body during the simulation set up; mathematically develop treatment plans by hand calculation or through use of a computer (treatment plans consider: patient factors e.g. body contour, tumor size and location, proximity of sensitive organs and tissues; and treatment parameters e.g. source of radiation, external/internal distances, the nature of the external beam, the use of bars, wedges and bolus); plot isodose curves on a cross sectional representation of the patient’s body; submit optional treatment plans to therapists for approval; and assist Radiation Therapy Technologists at the initial treatment session to assure that the radiation fields are administered according to the approved treatment plan.

Dosimetrists may also make surface or intracavitary molds; provide calculations and isodose distributions for interstitial and intracavitary radioactive source ap- plications; manufacture various therapy appliances (wedges, bars, blocks, bolus); check the treatment value recorded by the Radiation Therapy Technologists during the course of treatment to ensure proper dosage values and to adjust the treatment plan as necessary; and train student technologists, physicians and residents.

Dosimetry tasks may be performed by Radiation Therapy Technologists as an integral part of their work or on an ad hoc basis. To be allocated to the Dosimetrist Series, positions must be engaged for a majority of time on dosimetric tasks and the purpose of the position must be the development of radiation therapy treatment plans.

Class Concepts

Senior Dosimetrist

Under general direction, incumbents direct and coordinate all technical, and related work in a Dosimetry/Treatment Planning Section.

Incumbents select, train, make assignments to and review the work of subordinate dosimetry and related ancillary personnel; provide liaison with other sections of the Radiology/Radiation Oncology Department; answer difficult questions on procedures and techniques; develop material for, and direct instruction in treatment planning procedures; and may also perform work of an innovative nature to develop new techniques.

Dosimetrist

Under supervision, Dosimetrists perform the typical range of duties outlined in the Series Concept. This is the journey level class in the Series where a majority of the positions are allocated.

Minimum Qualifications

Senior Dosimetrist

Graduation from an accredited School of Radiologic Technology, a valid certificate in Radiation Therapy issued by the California State Department of Health, three years of experience in dosimetry; or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledges and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.

Dosimetrist

Graduation from an accredited School of Radiologic Technology, a valid certificate in Radiation Therapy issued by the California State Department of Health, one year of training in dosimetry; or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledges and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.