Overview
We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Radiopharmacy Technician to join the team at Kent and Canterbury Hospital. The role involves the safe manufacture and processing of radiopharmaceuticals. The ideal candidate will be eager to learn with excellent attention to detail and the ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Qualifications: a relevant scientific or technical qualification (e.g., BTEC, NVQ, or equivalent). Full training will be provided in aseptic technique, radiation safety, and quality control processes. Less qualified candidates with relevant clean-room experience may apply and will be supported to undertake Science Technician Manufacturing Training if successful in the post.
Working hours: 6.30am–14.30pm.
Main duties
* Work as part of a multidisciplinary team to deliver a safe and effective radiopharmaceutical service to the Nuclear Medicine department.
* Assemble, aseptically prepare and dispense radiopharmaceuticals according to GMP requirements.
* Carry out all processes consistently and accurately to a high standard according to Standard Operating Procedures.
* Maintain specialist equipment in the Radiopharmacy department, including daily quality control checks and validation activities.
* Monitor environmental conditions within the clean room, report deviations, and take appropriate action where required.
* Act as a Classified Radiation Worker under the Ionising Radiation Regulations 2017; work in accordance with the Health & Safety at Work Act, relevant regulations, and Local Rules.
* Be aware of ionising radiation hazards and work to minimise exposure to self and others.
* Receive, handle, store and dispose of sources of radioactivity according to Environment Agency Permit conditions.
* Undertake quality control and safety checks of radiopharmaceuticals and perform a range of test methods safely and accurately.
* Prioritise workload around patient schedules to deliver medicines in a timely manner for appointments.
* Undertake cleaning and decontamination duties of the Radiopharmacy and associated equipment before and after production.
* Transfer disinfection of items into the clean suite and isolators according to local procedures.
* Maintain operator validations to carry out all tasks as necessary.
* Dispatch radiopharmaceuticals off-site in accordance with relevant legislation (ADR, Carriage of Dangerous Goods).
* Ensure effective stock control and storage of pharmaceutical deliveries according to GMP requirements.
* Report deviations from SOPs, dispensing errors, and complaints to the Production Manager.
* Support the Pharmaceutical Quality Management System and participate in corrective or preventative actions as required.
* Keep up-to-date knowledge of radiopharmacy practices and radiation safety; attend training and support service improvements. Maintain registration where required. May undertake additional training (e.g., Science Manufacturing Technician Training) if not already held.
* Participate in training and supervision of junior/new staff, rotational staff or trainees.
* Wear the designated personal protective equipment at all times.
* Assist with radioactive waste handling and disposal under the guidance of the radiation protection supervisor.
* Monitor and contain any spillage of radioactive material; complete decontamination procedures as required by Department Local Rules.
* Maintain accurate record keeping as described in the Radiopharmacy Quality System and ensure a complete audit trail for all manufactured/dispensed products.
Person Specification
Qualifications and Training – Essential
* Science Manufacturing Technician Training Level 3, OR
* BTEC Pharmaceutical Science, NVQ Level 3 Pharmacy Services, OR
* Qualification in a relevant scientific, technical or healthcare discipline, OR
* Relevant training/experience in a related field
Skills and Experience – Essential
* Previous experience in an aseptic manufacturing unit or radiopharmacy, OR
* Experience in a related field/laboratory/educational setting
* Knowledge/understanding of GMP and patient safety measures
* Proven ability to work in a team
* Good written and verbal communication skills
* Strong interpersonal skills, diplomacy, tact and awareness of others
* Excellent organisational skills
* Ability to prioritise work and manage time effectively
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team
* Ability to cope with interruptions and maintain concentration
* Attention to detail and accuracy
Desirable
* Experience in a hospital setting
* Basic knowledge of Quality Assurance and Quality Management systems
* Experience supervising or training staff
* Experience working with Standard Operating Procedures
* Basic knowledge of radiation regulations and radiopharmaceuticals
* Experience meeting deadlines
Other Requirements
* Upholds and models the Trust Values
* Willing to be flexible according to service needs
* Daily early starts are required – 6.30am
Disclosure and Sponsorship
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires Disclosure to check for any previous convictions. Applications from job seekers who require Skilled Worker sponsorship to work in the UK will be considered alongside all other applications. For sponsorship information, please refer to the UK Visas and Immigration website.
#J-18808-Ljbffr