Radiation Safety Officer

Position Overview

The Radiation Safety Officer at KAUST plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the university community by developing, implementing, and overseeing a comprehensive radiation safety program. This position is instrumental in ensuring compliance with local regulations and international guidelines, while fostering a secure research and educational environment for staff, faculty, and students. The Radiation Safety Officer serves as the primary technical authority on radiation safety matters, collaborating closely with departmental and campus leadership to mitigate risks and support uninterrupted research activities. Additionally, the role extends to providing guidance to business partners and industry collaborators when necessary, reinforcing KAUST’s commitment to excellence in health, safety, and environmental stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

The Radiation Safety Officer is responsible for a broad range of duties designed to uphold the highest standards of radiation safety across the university. These responsibilities include:

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring the radiation safety program adheres to all applicable local regulations and international guidelines that KAUST subscribes to, thereby maintaining the university’s legal and ethical obligations.
• Program Development and Management: Establishing and managing a robust Radiation Safety Program that aligns with regulatory requirements and operational needs, including the procurement of necessary licenses and permits to facilitate seamless research activities.
• Safety Oversight: Creating and maintaining a safe working environment for all individuals engaged in research involving radiation, with a focus on minimizing exposure risks and promoting best practices in safety protocols.
• Technical Leadership: Serving as the principal technical resource for departmental and campus management on matters related to radiation safety, providing expert advice and solutions to complex challenges.
• Review and Approval: Evaluating and approving requests for the purchase of radioactive materials, as well as reviewing research protocols and safety plans to ensure they meet stringent safety standards.
• Documentation and Reporting: Preparing detailed reports, scientific documentation, and technical communications, including revisions to the University Radiation Safety Program Manual and other relevant documents to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Competencies and Qualifications

To excel in this role, the Radiation Safety Officer must possess a blend of technical expertise, communication skills, and professional experience. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Technical Proficiency: Extensive knowledge of radiation safety standards and codes specific to university research environments, along with proficiency in operating and maintaining radiation monitoring and testing equipment.
• Communication Excellence: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills in English, enabling effective collaboration with stakeholders at all levels and the clear dissemination of complex technical information.
• Professional Memberships: Membership in relevant professional organizations is preferred, reflecting a commitment to ongoing professional development and adherence to industry best practices.
• Educational Background: A Bachelor’s degree in a scientific or public health field, providing the foundational knowledge necessary to understand and address radiation safety challenges.
• Specialized Training: Completion of the KSA Radiation Protection Officer training is an added advantage, ensuring familiarity with regional regulatory frameworks and safety protocols.

Experience Requirements

Candidates for this position must have a minimum of six years of professional experience in radiation safety, with a strong emphasis on program development within university or research environments. This experience should demonstrate a proven track record in designing, implementing, and managing radiation safety initiatives that balance regulatory compliance with operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of practical knowledge and strategic insight to support KAUST’s mission of advancing research while prioritizing the health and safety of its community.