Navy NEC · Engineering
N79Z Health Physics Counting System Operator (HPCSO)
A Navy Enlisted Classification: a skill designation sailors hold in addition to their rating.
Overview
A health physics counting system operator uses germanium and scintillation detectors to identify and quantify radioactivity in samples, system hardware, tools, and equipment. The operator calibrates detectors, verifies quality control, analyzes radiation spectroscopy data, evaluates personnel for internally deposited radioactivity, and compares measured radioactivity with release criteria.
Core Skills
- radiation spectroscopy
- gamma spectrometry
- radioactivity quantification
- detector calibration
- counting system operation
- quality control statistics
- personnel contamination monitoring
- release criteria evaluation
- radiological data analysis
- emergency contamination assessment
Civilian Software & Tools
- Linux
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- Structured query language SQL
Civilian Career Paths
- Environmental Engineering
- Public Health
Training & Development
Getting Started
- HAZWOPER 40-Hour Certification
- Registered Radiation Protection Technologist (RRPT)
- Radiation Safety Officer Certification
Career Growth
- National Registry of Radiation Protection Technologists Certification
- Certified Health Physicist (CHP)
- Certified Safety Professional (CSP)
What the Work Involves
- Follow nuclear equipment operational policies and procedures that ensure environmental safety.
- Conduct surveillance testing to determine safety of nuclear equipment.
- Monitor nuclear reactor equipment performance to identify operational inefficiencies, hazards, or needs for maintenance or repair.
- Test plant equipment to ensure it is operating properly.
- Apply safety tags to equipment needing maintenance.
Related Occupations
- Nuclear Power Reactor Operators
- Power Plant Operators
- Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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