Proton Radiation Therapist

University of Arkansas • Little Rock, AR

5d

About The Position

The Proton Radiation Therapist performs proton therapy procedures and associated radiation therapy duties under the direct supervision of the Clinical Operations Director. The role requires careful patient preparation, immobilization, alignment, image-guidance interpretation, and beam delivery as prescribed by a radiation oncologist. The therapist is expected to work efficiently and to review x-ray images accurately, raising any discrepant findings with the clinical team. The role also requires understanding the proton machine and particle therapy principles, working in tandem with the on-site device-vendor engineering team, and helping manage equipment downtime. Training can be provided on site after hire.

The position includes performing CT simulations and QACTs for proton treatment and dose assessment, as well as radiation therapy procedures, dose calculations, chart and consistency checks, and routine checks on the treatment machine and simulator. Work is performed five days a week and may involve overtime, photon cross-coverage, call-back, and flexibility for extended or make-up hours.

UAMS describes itself as a collaborative health care organization focused on patient care and the lives of Arkansans. Benefits are available for eligible positions and include health coverage options, leave, education discounts, retirement contributions, life insurance, career training and educational opportunities, merchant discounts, and concierge prescription delivery on the main campus when using the UAMS pharmacy.

Requirements

• Associate's degree in radiation therapy plus two years of experience in a healthcare environment, or a bachelor's degree in radiation therapy.
• Current registration by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists as a radiation therapist, with an accredited program of radiation therapy technology.
• Current licensure as a Radiation Therapist with the Arkansas Department of Health.
• Current BLS certification, or ability to successfully obtain certification within the first 30 days of employment.
• Ability to work efficiently and maintain heightened accuracy in patient preparation, immobilization, alignment, image-guidance interpretation, and beam delivery.
• Ability to perform duties involving overtime, photon cross-coverage, call-back, and potential extended or make-up hours.

Responsibilities

• Perform proton therapy procedures according to physician orders and departmental guidelines.
• Determine and prepare patient setups within established parameters; calculate monitor units and record treatment information in the EMR while maintaining confidentiality.
• Maintain and submit daily patient EMR information, charges, schedules, and census.
• Communicate pertinent proton therapy information to patients and families, including appointments, skin care, treatment-field care, and proper attire.
• Assess and evaluate patient needs and treatment-related issues, recommend interventions, and act in accordance with physician practices and departmental policies while maintaining confidentiality.
• Maintain quality control of patient EMR and treatment parameters by regularly implementing guidelines.
• Maintain treatment-room cleanliness, linens, and supplies, and notify appropriate personnel when areas need attention.
• Perform equipment warm-up, start-up, and quality-control procedures; report equipment malfunctions or adverse conditions to appropriate personnel.
• Construct patient treatment aids, bolus material, positioning devices, and immobilization devices, and check them for suitability and accuracy.
• Clean and lubricate equipment, evaluate accessories for damage, and coordinate repairs.
• Work closely with Ion Beam Applications engineers and the on-site vendor engineering team.
• Review x-ray images with heightened accuracy and notify the clinical team of discrepant findings.
• Perform CT simulations and QACTs appropriate for proton treatment and dose assessment.
• Evaluate, teach, and monitor the clinical and didactic education of radiation therapists, dosimetry students, clinical residents, physics residents, and diagnostic students.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans available for qualifying staff and family.
• Holiday, vacation, and sick leave.
• Education discount for staff and dependents (undergraduate only).
• Retirement contribution matched by UAMS up to 10%.
• Basic life insurance up to $50,000.
• Career training and educational opportunities.
• Merchant discounts.
• Concierge prescription delivery on the main campus when using the UAMS pharmacy.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree