Nuclear Pharmacist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of advanced technology, the role of nuclear pharmacists has become increasingly significant.

As science and healthcare progress, the demand for specialized professionals who can understand, manage, and ensure the safe use of radioactive substances in diagnosis and treatment keeps growing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a nuclear pharmacist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker endeavoring to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complex field of nuclear pharmacy,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable nuclear pharmacist job description template, specifically created for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Nuclear Pharmacist Duties and Responsibilities

Nuclear Pharmacists are specialists in the preparation and provision of radioactive materials used in diagnostic imaging procedures and cancer treatment.

They must adhere strictly to safety protocols and regulations in handling these materials.

Nuclear Pharmacists have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Prepare radiopharmaceuticals in accordance with patients’ needs and physicians’ orders
• Ensure the safety and quality of nuclear medicine by conducting radiation safety checks and quality control tests
• Provide consultation and advice to physicians and healthcare professionals about the appropriate use and handling of radiopharmaceuticals
• Maintain accurate records of the receipt, disposal, and use of all radioactive materials
• Order, receive, and manage the inventory of radiopharmaceuticals and other supplies
• Provide training and guidance to pharmacy staff and other healthcare professionals on the safe handling and use of radiopharmaceuticals
• Perform patient assessments and monitor patient health before and after the administration of radiopharmaceuticals
• Keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in nuclear pharmacy and participate in continuous professional development activities

 

Nuclear Pharmacist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly skilled Nuclear Pharmacist to join our healthcare team.

The Nuclear Pharmacist’s responsibilities include ordering, receiving, storing, and preparing radiopharmaceuticals, and complying with health and safety regulations to ensure a safe work environment.

The ideal candidate must have an in-depth understanding of nuclear pharmacy operations, excellent attention to detail, and a patient-focused approach.

 

Responsibilities

• Prepare and dispense radiopharmaceuticals according to established policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate records of all radioactive materials received, stored, dispensed, and returned.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local health and safety regulations.
• Conduct quality control tests on radiopharmaceuticals and maintain all quality control records.
• Provide consultation to physicians and healthcare professionals regarding the appropriate use of radiopharmaceuticals.
• Conduct research to improve current practices in the field of nuclear pharmacy.
• Maintain and calibrate all equipment used in the preparation and dispensing of radiopharmaceuticals.
• Educate pharmacy students and residents about nuclear pharmacy practice.

 

Qualifications

• Doctor of Pharmacy degree (PharmD) and completion of an accredited nuclear pharmacy residency program.
• Valid license to practice as a Pharmacist in the state.
• Certified by the Board of Pharmacy Specialties in Nuclear Pharmacy.
• Previous experience working in a nuclear pharmacy is preferable.
• Thorough understanding of radiation safety and handling of radiopharmaceuticals.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Nuclear Pharmacist
• Work Environment: Hospital or Pharmaceutical setting with requirement to wear protective equipment. Some shifts may include evenings and weekends.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head Pharmacist or Pharmacy Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $109,220 minimum to $161,230 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a copy of your current pharmacy license to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Nuclear Pharmacist Do?

Nuclear Pharmacists are highly specialized professionals within the pharmacy and nuclear medicine field.

They typically work for medical facilities or specialized pharmacy corporations, and their primary function is to prepare and distribute radiopharmaceuticals.

They are responsible for compounding and dispensing radioactive materials for patient administration.

These materials are used for therapeutic treatments and diagnostic procedures, such as PET scans and bone scans.

Nuclear Pharmacists also perform quality control tests on radiopharmaceuticals, evaluate their safety and efficacy, and ensure that all procedures and materials comply with government regulations and guidelines.

They provide advice and consultation to physicians and healthcare providers on the appropriate use of radiopharmaceuticals, including the correct dosage and potential side effects.

In addition to these tasks, Nuclear Pharmacists may also be responsible for managing the radioactive waste produced by the pharmacy or medical facility, ensuring that it is disposed of safely and in compliance with environmental regulations.

Overall, their role is critical in supporting the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions, and ensuring patient safety when using radiopharmaceuticals.

 

Nuclear Pharmacist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient nuclear pharmacist should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job responsibilities, such as:

• A thorough understanding of nuclear pharmacy principles, radiopharmaceuticals and radiation safety procedures.
• Ability to prepare and dispense radiopharmaceuticals according to established protocols and regulations.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy in compounding and dispensing radiopharmaceuticals, and in maintaining records.
• Problem-solving skills to identify, analyze and resolve issues related to the preparation and delivery of radiopharmaceuticals.
• Effective communication skills to work with healthcare professionals in providing information and advice about radiopharmaceuticals.
• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and handle potentially heavy equipment.
• Ability to comply with all safety and regulatory guidelines pertaining to handling and disposing of radioactive materials.
• Strong analytical skills for interpreting scientific data, and understanding of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of radiopharmaceuticals.
• Customer service skills to provide support to healthcare providers and patients, and to manage inquiries and issues related to radiopharmaceuticals.

 

Nuclear Pharmacist Experience Requirements

To qualify as a nuclear pharmacist, candidates are expected to have a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree and complete a specialized residency or fellowship in nuclear pharmacy, which is typically one or two years in duration.

During this residency, they gain hands-on experience preparing and dispensing radiopharmaceuticals, utilizing nuclear pharmacy equipment, and adhering to safety protocols.

This provides them with the necessary practical experience to work as a nuclear pharmacist.

Additionally, to become a Board Certified Nuclear Pharmacist (BCNP), a pharmacist must complete a minimum of 4000 hours of clinical nuclear pharmacy practice over a period of not less than 24 months.

For more advanced roles, such as managerial or supervisory positions, employers may require several years of experience working as a nuclear pharmacist.

This experience allows the pharmacist to gain a comprehensive understanding of the operations of a nuclear pharmacy, including handling, disposal, and regulation of radioactive materials.

It’s also important to note that nuclear pharmacists are required to participate in continuing education throughout their careers to stay up-to-date with advancements in the field.

This ongoing learning can also be considered part of their professional experience.

 

Nuclear Pharmacist Education and Training Requirements

Nuclear Pharmacists are required to hold a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from a pharmacy school accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE).

Prior to obtaining this degree, most candidates complete at least two years of undergraduate study, with many completing a bachelor’s degree in a related field like biology or chemistry.

After earning a Pharm.D. degree, aspiring nuclear pharmacists must complete a specialized residency or fellowship in nuclear pharmacy.

This training, often one to two years long, focuses on the safe handling and proper use of radioactive drugs.

To practice as a nuclear pharmacist, individuals must be licensed.

This generally requires passing the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and fulfilling any additional state requirements.

In addition, nuclear pharmacists are typically required to earn certification from the Board of Pharmaceutical Specialties in Nuclear Pharmacy.

This certification requires a specified amount of practical experience, successful completion of an examination, and ongoing continuing education.

Continued professional development and keeping up-to-date with the latest advancements in nuclear medicine is often expected in this role.

This could be achieved through additional certifications, attending workshops, or other forms of continuous learning.

 

Nuclear Pharmacist Salary Expectations

A Nuclear Pharmacist earns an average salary of $134,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can greatly vary depending on the level of experience, education, and location.

The employing company or organization may also influence the overall salary package.

 

Nuclear Pharmacist Job Description FAQs

What is the educational requirement for a Nuclear Pharmacist?

A Nuclear Pharmacist typically requires a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree.

Postgraduate training in nuclear pharmacy is also required, which can be fulfilled by acquiring 4,000 hours of training in a nuclear pharmacy or by completing a nuclear pharmacy residency.

The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) offers a recognized nuclear pharmacy certification course.

 

What are the daily duties of a Nuclear Pharmacist?

Nuclear Pharmacists primarily prepare radiopharmaceuticals and other medications used in patient treatment.

Their day typically involves ordering, receiving, storing and controlling radioactive drugs, dispensing these drugs to hospitals, clinics, and research facilities, and ensuring that all regulatory guidelines are adhered to.

They may also be involved in patient safety activities, including reviewing patient medication lists and working with other healthcare professionals to determine appropriate therapies.

 

What qualities make a good Nuclear Pharmacist?

A good Nuclear Pharmacist possesses a strong understanding of the principles of radiation safety and nuclear pharmacy, along with a keen attention to detail.

They should have excellent communication skills to interact effectively with healthcare professionals and patients.

They must be meticulous and responsible given the nature of the substances they handle.

An ability to work under pressure and manage time effectively is also crucial in this role.

 

Is certification required for a Nuclear Pharmacist?

Yes, Nuclear Pharmacists must pass a certification exam from the Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS) in the United States.

The certification is a recognition of the pharmacist’s proficiency in nuclear pharmacy practice, and it is typically required or preferred by employers.

Recertification is required every seven years, which can be achieved through continuing education or re-examination.

 

What should you look for in a Nuclear Pharmacist resume?

A Nuclear Pharmacist’s resume should highlight their education (Pharm.D.), experience in nuclear pharmacy practice, and certification from BPS.

Proficiency in the use of equipment and the handling of radiopharmaceuticals should also be evident.

Any experience in research, teaching, or administration can also be valuable.

In addition, look for proof of their continuing education to ensure their knowledge is up-to-date.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of what being a nuclear pharmacist truly entails.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about dispensing radioactive materials.

It’s about shaping the future of healthcare, one nuclear medicine dosage at a time.

Armed with our detailed nuclear pharmacist job description template and practical examples, you’re now ready to take the next step.

But why settle there?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating accurate job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every dosage dispensed is a part of a bigger healthcare picture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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