MEDICAL PHYSICIST: GRADE 1 – 3

This vacancy is for a Medical Physicist graded at levels 1 through 3, based within the Department of Radiation Oncology of a provincial health department in South Africa. The successful candidate will form part of a multidisciplinary team delivering clinically related medical physics services, with the core focus on radiation oncology, including both low-dose-rate and high-dose-rate brachytherapy, while also providing support to nuclear medicine and diagnostic radiology. The role is not limited to routine clinical work; it also encompasses the commissioning and optimisation of new equipment and techniques, participation in the academic teaching programme for undergraduate and postgraduate students, and active involvement in the department's research and development initiatives. This makes the position suitable for a physicist who is comfortable balancing patient-facing clinical responsibilities with academic and scientific contributions.

To be considered, applicants must hold an appropriate qualification that permits registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as a Medical Physicist, and they must already be registered with the HPCSA in that category. The entry grade, Grade 1, requires no post-registration experience. Grade 2 requires a minimum of eight years of appropriate experience after registration, while Grade 3 requires a minimum of sixteen years. Candidates must also be in possession of a valid driver's licence, although an exemption applies to people with disabilities, and they must be willing to work within a flexible or shift-based system.

The core duties involve active participation in the routine execution of clinical medical physics tasks in the Department of Radiation Oncology, with particular emphasis on brachytherapy procedures. The post holder will assist with the commissioning and optimisation of new equipment and techniques, ensuring that technology is safely and effectively integrated into clinical practice. Teaching forms an important part of the role, with responsibility for assisting in the under- and postgraduate training programme run by the Medical Physics Department. In addition, the incumbent is expected to contribute to the department's research and development programme, helping to advance the field and improve patient care.

The ideal candidate will possess strong skills across the full scope of the medical physics profession, including a thorough understanding of the physics of radiotherapy, diagnostic x-ray and nuclear medicine equipment, as well as the associated computers and software. A comprehensive knowledge of radiotherapy physics is essential, along with familiarity with the statutory regulations governing the medical use of ionizing radiation. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required, together with teaching, research and development abilities. The successful applicant should be capable of using initiative to solve problems, recognising when action is needed, weighing potential risks, and taking responsibility for outcomes. Personal attributes include high motivation, a methodical approach, strong attention to detail, exceptional accuracy, and the ability to perform well under pressure while meeting deadlines.

This is a graded post, meaning the level of appointment depends on the candidate's years of relevant experience. The vacancy is advertised through the provincial e-recruitment portal, and interested applicants should review the full advertisement for the reference number and closing date. Given the specialised nature of the role, only candidates who meet the HPCSA registration requirements and the relevant experience thresholds will be considered.