Duke Careers·Durham, North Carolina
The Radiation Therapist delivers prescribed radiation therapy treatments to patients while ensuring safety and accurate equipment operation. They also assist in simulations, dosimetry procedures, and maintain detailed patient records and quality assurance documentation.
At Duke Health, we're driven by a commitment to compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community. No matter where your talents lie, join us and discover how we can advance health together. About Duke University Hospital Pursue your passion for caring with Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina, which is consistently ranked among the best in the United States. The largest of the four Duke Healthhospitals with 1062 patient beds, it features comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic facilities, including a regional emergency/trauma center, an endo-surgery center, and more.
Deliver accurately the prescribed planned course of radiation therapy with minimal supervision.
Check prescription, diagnosis, chart and patient identification.
Explain procedure to patient, means of communication during treatment and procedure to follow if emergency arises during treatment. *Reinforce Radiation Oncologist's advice to patient regarding reactions to treatment and their care.
Prepare room and equipment for patient according to prescription regarding immobilization devices, field size, treatment distance, lead protection devices, etc.
Transfer patient safely to treatment couch, giving special care to catheters, intravenous drips, etc.
Check daily treatment time and delivers prescribed dose. *Maintain visual and audible communication with the patient during treatment.
Maintain patient markings.
Observe patient for unusual reactions and events and report accurate information to the nursing staff and/or Radiation Oncologist.
Observe radiation safety measures for patient and personnel.
Perform simulations.
Assist in tumor localization procedures, preparation of immobilization devices, etc.
Assist in dosimetry procedures (i.e.
Prescription calculations).
Obtain weekly port films and present such at chart rounds for review by Radiation Oncology staff.
Assume weekly on- call status on a rotation basis. (Applies to Duke staff therapist only) Perform and document daily accelerator warm-up and QA procedures.(DRH and RCH) Maintain records of daily treatment and other records as required by department quality assurance and quality improvement activities.
Perform mold room duties.(DRH and RCH) Secure and maintain supplies.
Secure x-ray and lab reports as needed.
Report erratic operation of equipment to Chief Radiation therapist, Radiation Physicist and/or Medical Engineer.
Participate in departmental PI (Performance Improvement) activities.
Assist in the hiring and orienting of new personnel.
Attend weekly QA rounds, monthly therapy meetings, and educational in-services.
Incorporate department and hospital policies and procedures into care provided.
Required Qualifications at this Level Education
Satisfactory completion of a 24 month course in radiology technology and a 12 month course in radiation therapy technology; or Satisfactory completion of a 24 month course in radiation therapy technology; or Registered nurse who has satisfactorily completed a 12-month course in radiation therapy technology; or Satisfactory completion of a Bachelor of Science degree in radiation therapy.
One year clinical training in Radiation Therapy.
Degrees, Licensure, and/or Certification
Current licensure as required by state or national authority and/or certification or board eligible in Radiation Therapy by the American Registry of Radiology Technology. Maintain ARRT certification in radiation therapy with a minimum of documented 12 hours of continuing education.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge in principles, practices and procedures involved in the operation of ionizing radiographic and radiation therapy equipment. Knowledge of the human anatomy and proper positioning of the patient to provide treatment as prescribed. Ability to administer CPR in a medical emergency.
Candidates must have completed a formal radiation therapy technology program and possess current ARRT certification or be board eligible. One year of clinical training in radiation therapy is required.
Market context
Behavioral health employers in North Carolina often look for licensed or credentialed clinicians, and this role requires registration with the North Carolina Substance Abuse Professional Certification board. These positions can be competitive because employers may prefer a bachelor’s degree and want candidates who can work within treatment, documentation, and care coordination expectations. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, and confirm your credential status before applying.