Radiation Safety Officer

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Position Summary:

Reporting to the Associate Director, Environment, Health and Safety (EHS), the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) is responsible for managing and overseeing the University’s radiation and laser safety programs. This includes ensuring compliance with federal and provincial regulations, inspecting and monitoring facilities that use ionising and non-ionising radiation, providing safety training, and maintaining program documentation and inventories. The incumbent serves as a subject matter expert and liaison with regulatory bodies such as the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), Health Canada, and relevant provincial agencies. Participates in the development and implementation of policies and new initiatives that support the strategic direction of the Environmental Health and Safety ionising and non-ionising radiation matters.

​Primary Responsibilities:

Program oversight

• Carry out radiation monitoring in University areas utilising radioisotopes and other sources of ionising and non-ionising radiation, in compliance with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), National Dosimetry and Health Canada regulations and standards.
• Develop, implement, and maintain laser and radiation safety policies and procedures in accordance with CNSC, Health Canada, and industry best practices.
• Serve as the University's point of contact for all matters involving CNSC licensing, inspections, and compliance.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards for Class 3B and 4 lasers and non-ionizing radiation sources.

Inspection, Hazard Identification and Risk Mitigation

• Conduct workplace assessments/inspections for both ionising and non-ionising radiation hazards.
• Perform radiation surveys, leak tests, wipe tests, bioassays and decontamination procedures and other radiological tests.
• Evaluate laser workspaces and establish Nominal Hazard Zones and Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) limits.
• Recommend and verify appropriate control measures and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Training

• Develop and deliver training programs in radiation and laser safety, including ionising and non-ionising radiation.
• Identify personnel requiring medical surveillance and coordinate baseline eye testing and dosimetry monitoring.
• Investigate incidents of exposure or contamination and implement corrective actions.

Reporting & Documentation

• Maintain detailed records of inspections, exposure histories, medical surveillance, training completion, and equipment usage.
• Prepare and submit required annual reports to CNSC and the University Laboratory Safety Committee.
• Analyse safety data and generate statistics and documentation for internal and external review.
• Maintain the inventory of all Class 3B and Class 4 lasers.
• Ensure all permits are maintained and kept up to date.

Liaison & Continuous Improvement

• Act as a liaison between the University and the CNSC and other external agencies and regulatory agencies on radiation and laser safety issues.
• Provide guidance to departments and research groups on safe practices and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in EHS initiatives, special projects, and campaigns to promote a culture of safety.

Equipment /installations

• Oversee proper use and maintenance of radiation dosimetry badges and maintain radiation exposure history records for EHS and other University departments.
• Ensure the availability and reliable operation of radiation detection instruments.
• Review radiation laser installations, facilities and equipment before use, including any modifications made.
• Participate in the commissioning and decommissioning of both ionising and non ionising radiation hazards/equipment.

Other Qualifying Skills and/or Abilities

Certification or eligibility for certification as a Radiation Safety Officer under CNSC guidelines.

Experience with laser safety program management, ideally including Class 3B and 4 lasers.

In-depth knowledge of applicable federal and provincial regulations (CNSC, Health Canada, ANSI Z136 series).

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, each requiring diverse skills and resources, while consistently meeting strict deadlines. Capable of working independently with minimal supervision, as well as collaboratively within a team environment.

Possesses excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, including the ability to prepare clear documentation and deliver effective presentations. Adept at liaising with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. Known for strong interpersonal skills, exceptional organizational abilities, and meticulous attention to detail.

Experience working in a university research setting is highly desirable. Proficient in PC-based environments, with advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Fully bilingual in English and French, both spoken and written.

As one of Montreal's Top Employers, here is what we offer:

• Competitive benefits package (Health, Dental, Life Insurance) (if eligible)
• Defined contribution pension plan (with employer contribution up to 10%) (if eligible)
• Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA)
• Competitive vacation policy
• Two (2) personal days
• Two (2) floating holidays
• Nine (9) "Summer Fridays" - paid days off between the St-Jean Baptiste holiday and Labour Day
• Paid time off over the December holiday period
• Tuition waiver for regular employees and their dependents
• Up to two (2) days of remote work per week where the position permits

Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.

Knowledge of English: McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level 4 on a scale of 0-4.

For a definition of our language proficiency levels, please click here.

Minimum Education and Experience:

Bachelor's Degree 3 Years Related Experience with Bachelor’s Degree /

Annual Salary:

(MPEX Grade 05) $71,890.00 - $89,860.00 - $107,830.00

Job Profile:

MPEX-LOG2B - Security, Safety & Environment - Professional 2

Hours per Week:

33.75 (Full time)

Supervisor:

Associate Director EHS

Position End Date (If applicable):

Deadline to Apply:

2025-09-12

McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, accessibilityrequest.hr@mcgill.ca.