Head of Radiation Protection and Diagnostic Radiology QA
The closing date is 19 February 2026
Job summary
We are pleased to offer an exciting opportunity to join us as the Head of Radiation Protection and Diagnostic Radiology QA.
In this key role, you will act as an appointed Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA) and Medical Physics Expert (MPE) in Diagnostic Radiology, with support to external contracts as required. You will provide strategic leadership for radiation safety services across the Trust, ensuring high standards of compliance, safety, and scientific quality.
Working with site leadership teams and the Deputy Director of Operations for Radiology, you will oversee the Trust's radiation protection programme and lead on all aspects of radiation safety advice.
You will collaborate with senior scientists to deliver scientific and managerial leadership for services within the Trust and for partner organisations under contract.
You will operate at an expert level, offering authoritative guidance on radiation legislation and national standards. Services requiring RPA/MPE support include nuclear medicine (including PET), radiopharmacy, radiotherapy, diagnostic radiology, and cardiology.
MPE accreditation is essential. Applicants close to submitting an RPA portfolio may be considered within an agreed time-frame.
If you are an experienced leader with the vision to shape the future of radiation safety services, we welcome your application.
Main duties of the job
As Head of Radiation Protection and Diagnostic Radiology QA, you will:
Work with Superintendent Radiographers, Department Managers and Radiation Protection Supervisors to plan and manage radiation safety audits, patient dosimetry, equipment testing, reactive investigations, optimisation projects, and the communication of findings and new guidance.
Collaborate with the Physicist leading the Diagnostic Radiology QA programme and other MPEs to ensure testing meets current professional standards and national guidance.
Attend external inspections, providing information, supporting discussions, and assisting with implementing recommendations.
Monitor emerging regulations and assess their impact on service delivery, resources, and long-term strategy for radiation protection.
Develop procedures for complex radiation risk assessments, using specialist judgement to recommend strategies that minimise risk.
Act as an appointed Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA) under the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 for the Trust and contracted organisations.
Plan and coordinate Radiation Protection and Diagnostic Radiology training for staff, delivering sessions with other RPAs and MPEs.
Contribute to diagnostic X-ray equipment tendering and procurement, offering expert advice on specifications and performance.
Lead and manage the site radiation protection programme with the Divisional Director/Designated Duty Officer for Radiology.
About us
Our ambition is to deliver excellent local and specialist services, to improve the health and well being of our patients, and provide a vibrant place for staff to develop, innovate and build careers.
We aim to make the most of our skills and experiences so we can become the best we can be. As one organisation we will recruit the finest and retain more specialist staff due to more employment opportunities across our Trust.
Details
Date posted
09 February 2026
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 8c
Salary
£76,965 a year Per Annum (Pro Rata for Part Time)
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Full-time
Reference number
390-CSS-SO-0019
Job locations
Southend
Prittlewell Chase
Westcliff-on-Sea
SS0 0RY
Employer details
Employer name
Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
Address
Southend
Prittlewell Chase
Westcliff-on-Sea
SS0 0RY
Employer's website
https://www.mse.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)
Employer contact details
For questions about the job, contact:
Supporting documents
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