Radiation Therapy Technologist
Class Specifications – H.20
Chief Radiation Therapy Technologist – 9010
Associate Chief Radiation Therapy Technologist – 9011
Senior Radiation Therapy Technologist – 9012
Radiation Therapy Technologist – 9013
August, 1977
Series Concept
Radiation Therapy Technologists perform a wide variety of technical therapeutic procedures by the application of ionizing radiation from radioactive materials or generators to treat benign or malignant diseases of the body; and perform other related duties as assigned.
Radiation Therapy Technologists typically confer with Radiation Oncologists and work closely with Dosimetrists to discuss the treatment plan and the type of simulator films that will be necessary; place reference markings on the patients’ body; review treatment procedures with the patient to reinforce the therapist’s comments on reactions to therapy, to ensure that communication and emergency procedures are understood, and to advise on appropriate dietary and skin care procedures; position patients for single portal, multiple portal, rotation or cross beam therapy, providing immobilization devices as required; set up equipment according to the treatment plan verifying the placement of bars, wedges and similar devices; closely monitor the patient for unexpected reactions and report these deviations to the Therapist; and record delivered dosage values on the chart, verifying these values against the prescribed treatment plan.
Incumbents may also calculate prescribed dosages of ionizing radiation to be delivered to the patient; assist in preparing applicators for interstitial and intracavitary implants; operate simulation, radiographic and automated or manual film processing equipment; evaluate the technical quality of localization and verification port films; perform minor equipment adjustments; order equipment and supplies; and evaluate equipment for modification and replacement.
Class Concepts
Chief Radiation Therapy Technologist
Under general direction, incumbents direct and coordinate all technical therapeutic and related work in the Radiation Oncology Department/Section of a campus medical center.
Incumbents select, train, make assignments to, and review the work of subordinate therapy technicians and related ancillary medical personnel; answer difficult questions on procedures and techniques; and may coordinate all business/clerical functions of the organization.
Incumbents may also assist investigators on research projects and special programs; perform work of an innovative nature to develop new techniques or complex therapeutic procedures; direct or coordinate student technologist training programs; and may teach formal courses in anatomy, physiology, ethics and treatment techniques.
Associate Chief Radiation Therapy Technologist
Under general direction, incumbents serve as the Principal assistant to the Chief Radiation Therapy Technologist in a campus medical center facility. Incumbents may in addition perform the range of duties outlined for Chief Radiation Therapy Technologist during their absence or as delegated by the Chief during the performance of normal work assignments.
Senior Radiation Therapy Technologist
Under general supervision, incumbents are assigned continuing responsibility for leading a therapeutic team composed of at least one Radiation Therapy Technologist. Incumbents advise and direct therapeutic team members and are assigned technical responsibility for the work performed.
Incumbents may also advise and direct other Technologists in new or difficult procedures; investigate unsatisfactory procedures or problems and make recommendations for solutions; provide clinical instruction for student technologists; and ensure that equipment repairs are satisfactorily executed.
Incumbents may be assigned unit-wide supervisory duties in the absence of the Chief Technologist.
Radiation Therapy Technologist
Under supervision, Radiation Therapy Technologists perform the range of typical duties outlined in the series concept. Incumbents function as a member of a team with the Senior Radiation Therapy Technologist in patient treatment on supervoltage equipment and act independently in the operation of orthovoltage equipment and in taking radiographic films for simulation purposes.
This is the journey level class in the series where a majority of the positions are allocated.
Minimum Qualifications
Chief Radiation Therapy Technologist
Graduation from an accredited School of Radiologic Technology, a valid certificate in Radiation Therapy Technology issued by the California State Department of Health, and four years of experience in radiation therapy technology; or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledges and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.
Associate Chief Radiation Therapy Technologist
Graduation from an accredited School of Radiologic Technology, a valid certificate in Radiation Therapy Technology issued by the California State Department of Health, and three years of experience in Radiation Therapy Technology; or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledges and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.
Senior Radiation Therapy Technologist
Graduation from an accredited School of Radiologic Technology, a valid certificate in Radiation Therapy Technology issued by the California State Department of Health, and 18 months of experience in Radiation Therapy Technology; or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledges and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.
Radiation Therapy Technologist
Graduation from an accredited School of Radiologic Technology and a valid certificate in Radiation Therapy Technology issued by the California State Department of Health, or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledges and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.