Medical Physicist Diagnostic Radiology- UPMC Whitfield Hospital

Medical Physicist Diagnostic Radiology- UPMC Whitfield Hospital

Location: UPMC Whitfield Hospital
Job type: Permanent

Overview of role:

The Radiology Department provides a service to both Inpatients and Outpatients. It includes General Radiography, Theatre Imaging, Ultrasound, CathLab, PET CT, MRI, CT and DEXA services. The post holder will provide professional medical physics support within the Radiology Department, ensuring that all diagnostic imaging services at UPMC Whitfield are delivered safely, effectively, and in compliance with national regulations and hospital policies.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Clinical

- Perform routine and annual QA/QC testing on diagnostic radiology equipment (CT, MRI, PET/CT, Cath Lab, Ultrasound, DEXA, Fluoroscopy, and General X-ray).
- Assist with acceptance testing and commissioning of new or replacement imaging equipment.
- Monitor and assess imaging protocols to ensure compliance with S.I. 256 of 2018 and S.I. 30 of 2019.
- Support the Senior Physicist in providing radiation protection advice and compliance oversight.
- Participate in radiation shielding design, verification testing, and associated reports.
- Support the management of patient dose monitoring systems and review diagnostic reference levels (DRLs).
- Maintain accurate records of calibration, service, and performance of physics equipment.
- Provide input to the specification and procurement of diagnostic imaging equipment.
- Support the Senior Physicist in ensuring high standards of diagnostic image quality and patient safety.
- Assist in preparation for HIQA, EPA & Accreditation inspections, external audits, and regulatory reviews.
- Undertake additional duties as required by the Senior Physicist or Radiology Service Manager to support continuity of service.
- Promote patient-centred care and uphold the UPMC values of Quality, Safety, Respect, Dignity, and Innovation.

Quality & Audit

- Be involved in the setting-up, maintaining and reviewing of QA programmes.
- Involvement in weekly huddle to address Department ‘wins’ and address any issues identified & outline ongoing audits.
- Share all communications and Policy updates with ‘Read and Sign’ through TEAMS platform so it is accessible to all.
- Maintain up to date TEAMs folders to ensure latest Document Controlled versions are ‘live’ on TEAMS and all staff complete read and sign process.
- Maintain accurate information systems for clinical data in accordance with hospital standards.
- Support the CSRs and Radiology Service Manager in the implementation of initiatives aimed at on-going service development and improvement.
- Investigate and take appropriate action in accordance with hospital policy in relation to complaints, accidents, and incidents.
- Implement and maintain a Quality Assurance programme for the Department giving an update on completed and incomplete tasks basis to the CSR / RSM on a regular basis.

Staff Training, Health and Safety

- Assist with the implementation and maintain a quality assurance programme for the Department.
- Regularly liaise with the staff on safety issues and other operational issues as appropriate.
- Promote and maintain a safe environment for staff and patients.
- Have a working knowledge of HIQA, EPA, CHKS and JCI Standards as they apply to the role.
- Support, promote and actively participate in sustainable energy, water and waste initiatives to create a more sustainable, low carbon and efficient health service.
- Contribute to training for radiographers, clinicians, and hospital staff in radiation safety, MRI safety, and the safe use of imaging equipment.
- Support and promote a culture of safety in line with ALARA principles.
- Contribute to departmental teaching programmes and staff CPD initiatives.
- Review diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) for routinely performed radiographic examinations and how they compare to national and local DRLs.

Research, Audit & Development

- Participate in clinical audits, incident investigations, and risk management activities.
- Contribute to research, innovation, and service development projects within the Radiology Department.
- Support the development and implementation of new imaging protocols and technologies, License updates and regular review.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of international best practices, emerging technologies, and regulatory developments.
- Develop a personal development plan (PDP) and professional portfolio.
- Conduct evidence-based research and participate in research studies.
- Apply the learning outcomes in the clinical setting.
- Maintain, enhance and develop knowledge, skill and aptitudes necessary to respond to changing practice, hospital/service developments and legal requirements such as licensing.
- Participate and deliver CPD.
- Provide peer support when necessary.
- Engage in performance review with his/her manager.
- Participate in staff engagement and performance reviews.
- Demonstrate resilience and composure.
- Demonstrate flexibility and openness to change.
- Demonstrate an ability to manage and develop self and others in a busy working environment.
- Demonstrate the ability to effectively evaluate information and make appropriate decisions.
- Act autonomously within agreed guidelines.

Qualifications & Experience:

- Honours degree (1st or 2nd class) in Physics (or equivalent scientific discipline).
- MSc in Medical Physics (or near completion of MSc).
- Additional postgraduate qualifications in a relevant field (Desirable).

Experience (Desirable):

- Demonstrated ability to carry out diagnostic imaging QA/QC procedures.
- Knowledge of radiation protection principles and Irish/European legislation.
- Experience working in a hospital or clinical setting as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Experience with CT dosimetry, MRI safety, nuclear medicine, or laser safety.
- Experience with dose monitoring software and image analysis tools.

Core Competencies

- Strong analytical and scientific problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- High standards of record keeping and attention to detail.
- Flexible, adaptable, and motivated towards continuous professional development.

Equal Opportunity Statement and Benefits

UPMC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

At UPMC we provide a total rewards program that is not only market competitive, but fair and provides growth opportunities for all our colleagues.

- Compensation – Competitive pay for the work employees do – base pay, performance related pay and premium pay where applicable.
- Benefits – Fully paid maternity and paternity leave for new parents. Competitive Pension Plan, company funded Death in Service Benefit x 3 times. Critical Illness cover for all employees up to the age of 66.
- Performance and Recognition – Rewards for performance that supports the goals and mission of UPMC through our annual ACES programme.
- Work-Life Balance – Enhanced annual leave up to a maximum of 27 days. Flexible working opportunities to support you to work around external family commitments.
- Development and Career Opportunities – Opportunities for each employee to reach their career goals through continued learning and/or advancement.

About UPMC: UPMC is a renowned multinational academic medical centre committed to delivering people-focused care that’s close to home. Headquartered in Pittsburgh and affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, UPMC shapes the future of health through clinical and technological innovation, research and education.

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