Radiopharmacy Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of advanced medical technology, the focus on radiopharmacy specialists has never been more crucial.

As healthcare evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can develop, dispense, and ensure the safe use of radioactive drugs for diagnosis and therapy magnifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a radiopharmacy specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the scope of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the fascinating field of radiopharmacy,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable radiopharmacy specialist job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Radiopharmacy Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Radiopharmacy Specialists work in the pharmacy field that specializes in the use of radioactive substances to diagnose and treat diseases.

They are responsible for preparing radiopharmaceuticals, maintaining patient records, and ensuring compliance with radiation safety regulations.

The daily duties and responsibilities of a Radiopharmacy Specialist include:

• Preparation of radiopharmaceuticals for patient administration
• Performing quality control tests on radiopharmaceuticals and radiation detection equipment
• Maintaining accurate and detailed patient and radiopharmaceutical production records
• Ensuring compliance with radiation safety regulations and maintaining safety procedures for handling radioactive materials
• Assisting with nuclear medicine therapy procedures
• Collaborating with medical staff to ensure the accurate delivery of radiopharmaceuticals
• Monitoring and ordering radioactive materials and supplies
• Providing education and consultation services to healthcare staff about the use and handling of radiopharmaceuticals
• Participating in research activities related to radiopharmacy
• Keeping up-to-date with advancements and changes in the field of nuclear medicine and radiopharmacy

 

Radiopharmacy Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Radiopharmacy Specialist to join our team.

The Radiopharmacy Specialist will be responsible for preparing, dispensing and managing radiopharmaceuticals used in nuclear medicine procedures.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of nuclear medicine, radiochemistry, and medical imaging.

They should also be familiar with the safety and regulatory standards related to the use of radiopharmaceuticals.

 

Responsibilities

• Prepare and dispense radiopharmaceuticals for nuclear medicine procedures
• Ensure compliance with radiation safety procedures and guidelines
• Perform quality control tests on radiopharmaceuticals
• Document all radiopharmaceutical preparation and dispensing activities
• Coordinate with nuclear medicine physicians to determine appropriate radiopharmaceutical usage
• Assist in the development and implementation of radiopharmacy procedures and protocols
• Keep up-to-date with developments in the field of radiopharmacy

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Radiopharmacy Specialist or similar role in nuclear medicine
• Detailed knowledge of radiopharmaceuticals and nuclear medicine procedures
• Familiarity with radiation safety procedures and guidelines
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree or similar
• Board certification in Nuclear Pharmacy (BCNP) is preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k) plan
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Radiopharmacy Specialist
• Work Environment: This role typically works in a laboratory setting. Some exposure to radiation is expected, but safety measures are in place to minimize risk.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Nuclear Medicine or Radiopharmacy Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate’s experience and qualifications, along with market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $98,572 minimum to $155,460 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 and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Radiopharmacy Specialist Do?

Radiopharmacy Specialists work primarily in hospitals or pharmacies where they prepare and dispense radiopharmaceuticals.

These are drugs that contain radioactive substances which are used for diagnosis and treatment in nuclear medicine procedures.

They are responsible for formulating and dispensing radiopharmaceuticals according to prescriptions from medical doctors.

They also ensure the quality of radiopharmaceuticals by testing samples, following strict safety procedures to protect patients, themselves, and the environment from unnecessary exposure to radiation.

The Radiopharmacy Specialist also provides technical support to nuclear medicine departments, doctors and other healthcare professionals.

They are involved in advising medical staff on the selection, dosage, administration, and handling of radiopharmaceuticals.

In addition to this, they are responsible for maintaining radiopharmacy equipment and facilities, complying with nuclear medicine regulations, and participating in research activities related to the development of new radiopharmaceuticals.

Radiopharmacy Specialists must ensure that all procedures are carried out according to guidelines and regulations for radiation safety and protection.

This includes managing radioactive waste disposal and decontamination procedures.

They also play a critical role in patient care, providing information and counseling to patients regarding the use and effects of radiopharmaceuticals.

 

Radiopharmacy Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A competent Radiopharmacy Specialist should have a variety of skills and qualifications that comply with the job expectations, such as:

• Thorough understanding of radiopharmaceutical production, including the use of radiopharmaceuticals and radiation safety, to ensure safe and effective patient treatment.
• Strong analytical skills to understand and interpret complex patient data, as well as for the development of new radiopharmaceuticals.
• Excellent attention to detail to adhere to strict protocols and procedures related to the preparation, quality control, and administration of radiopharmaceuticals.
• Strong communication skills to effectively liaise with physicians, nuclear medicine technologists, and other healthcare providers regarding patient dosages and procedures.
• Problem-solving abilities to identify and rectify issues that might occur during radiopharmaceutical preparation or administration.
• Technical skills to operate and maintain radiopharmacy equipment, including hot cells, dose calibrators, and other related instruments.
• Good physical stamina for standing for long periods and handling heavy equipment and materials.
• Knowledge of current research and advancements in the field of radiopharmacy to stay updated and contribute to the improvement of patient care.

 

Radiopharmacy Specialist Experience Requirements

Radiopharmacy specialists generally need to have an extensive educational background in pharmacy, often having completed a doctorate in pharmacy (PharmD) or a similar degree.

This is typically followed by additional specialized training in nuclear pharmacy, with programs often lasting one to two years.

Entry-level candidates typically have at least one year of experience, often gained through an internship or residency program in a nuclear pharmacy.

These professionals may also gain necessary experience through roles such as pharmacy technician or pharmacist, where they can acquire knowledge about medication compounding and patient safety.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level radiopharmacy specialist roles.

They may also gain experience in handling radiopharmaceuticals, implementing quality control procedures, and ensuring compliance with radiation safety regulations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have some leadership experience in their background, either as a supervisor or manager of a nuclear pharmacy.

At this level, radiopharmacy specialists often have experience in mentoring and training other pharmacists, managing operations, and implementing strategic plans for the pharmacy.

Furthermore, certification from the Board of Pharmacy Specialties in Nuclear Pharmacy (BPS-NP) or similar is often required, demonstrating the radiopharmacy specialist’s expertise and experience in the field.

 

Radiopharmacy Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Radiopharmacy Specialists typically hold a doctorate degree in pharmacy, followed by additional specialized training in nuclear pharmacy, often in the form of a residency or fellowship.

During their doctorate degree, they will have studied subjects such as pharmacy, chemistry, biology, and physiology.

They then receive hands-on training in the practice of nuclear pharmacy, which involves understanding the use and handling of radioactive materials.

After completing their education, Radiopharmacy Specialists must then become certified.

The Board of Pharmacy Specialties certifies Radiopharmacy Specialists as Board Certified Nuclear Pharmacists (BCNP).

This certification involves passing an exam and completing a minimum of 4,000 hours of training in nuclear pharmacy practice.

Certain states in the US also require Radiopharmacy Specialists to hold a specific nuclear pharmacist license, the requirements for which vary by state.

Continuing education is crucial in this field due to the evolving nature of nuclear medicine and technology.

Many professionals choose to attend lectures, workshops, and seminars to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements.

Beyond formal education and certification, Radiopharmacy Specialists need to have strong analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and an understanding of safety protocols due to the nature of their work with radioactive materials.

 

Radiopharmacy Specialist Salary Expectations

A Radiopharmacy Specialist earns an average salary of $110,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may significantly vary based on the specialist’s level of experience, education, the institution they work for, and the location of their workplace.

 

Radiopharmacy Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Radiopharmacy Specialist need?

Radiopharmacy Specialists should possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

A detailed understanding of nuclear medicine and radiation safety is crucial.

They should be skilled in operating radiopharmaceutical equipment and have a keen eye for detecting abnormalities during diagnostics.

Moreover, they must have excellent communication skills to effectively interact with medical staff, patients, and regulatory bodies.

 

Do Radiopharmacy Specialists need a degree?

Yes, Radiopharmacy Specialists typically need a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as pharmacy, chemistry, or biology.

Additionally, they are required to complete a specialized training program in nuclear pharmacy and obtain certification as a nuclear pharmacist.

 

What should you look for in a Radiopharmacy Specialist resume?

A good Radiopharmacy Specialist resume should indicate a strong background in nuclear pharmacy and radiopharmaceuticals.

Look for a valid certification as a nuclear pharmacist.

Experience in a healthcare setting, especially in radiopharmacy or nuclear medicine departments, is a plus.

The candidate should also have a clear understanding of radiation safety protocols and guidelines.

 

What qualities make a good Radiopharmacy Specialist?

A good Radiopharmacy Specialist should be detail-oriented and meticulous, given the critical nature of the job.

They should have excellent problem-solving skills and be able to work under pressure.

Good interpersonal skills are also important as they often work with diverse teams and directly with patients.

Furthermore, a commitment to ongoing education to stay abreast of the latest advancements in nuclear medicine is essential.

 

What are the daily duties of a Radiopharmacy Specialist?

A Radiopharmacy Specialist’s daily duties include preparing radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic and therapeutic use, calibrating and maintaining radiopharmacy equipment, and ensuring compliance with radiation safety measures.

They may also be responsible for quality control testing, record-keeping, and consulting with medical staff regarding the appropriate use of radiopharmaceuticals.

 

What is the career growth like for a Radiopharmacy Specialist?

Career growth for a Radiopharmacy Specialist can take several forms.

They may choose to specialize further in areas such as pediatric nuclear medicine or move into research roles.

Some may opt for academic careers, teaching the next generation of nuclear pharmacists.

Additionally, leadership roles in radiopharmacy departments or within regulatory bodies are also possible with experience and further qualifications.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the reality of working as a radiopharmacy specialist.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about dispensing radiopharmaceuticals.

It’s about contributing to the future of healthcare, one radiopharmaceutical dose at a time.

With our go-to radiopharmacy specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to an absolute T.

Remember:

Each radiopharmaceutical dose is a part of the bigger healthcare picture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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