NEC
N79Z
Health Physics Counting System Operator (HPCSO)
A Navy Enlisted Classification: a skill designation sailors hold in addition to their rating.
Description
Performs radioactivity analysis with High Purity Germanium semi-conductor detectors, Sodium Iodide Scintillators, and Plastic Scintillators. Identifies and quantifies radioactivity from samples, system hardware, tools, and equipment to determine suitability for release from radioactive controls. Calibrates the equipment used for radioactivity analysis and performs quality control verifications to ensure proper operation of these detectors after completion of training in the Fleet Radioactivity Analysis Course (FRAC), held at NNSY. Evaluates if internally deposited radioactivity is present in monitored personnel during routine personnel counting as well as in support of emergency response for contaminated or injured personnel. Responsible for the performance and analysis of radiation spectroscopy; statistical analysis of quality control data; and comparing the specified radioactivity of items to release criterion established from various sources outside the normal purview of nuclear trained personnel.
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
Common Certifications
- National Registry of Radiation Protection Technologists (NRRPT) Certification
- Certified Health Physicist (CHP)
- Radiation Safety Officer Certification
- American Society for Clinical Pathology Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)
- HAZWOPER 40-Hour Certification
- OSHA 30-Hour General Industry
Civilian Career Paths
- MEDICAL LABORATORY
- CLINICAL TECHNICIAN
- ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING
- PUBLIC HEALTH
Training & Development
Getting Started
- Radiation Protection Technician training
- Radiation Safety Officer training
- HAZWOPER 40-Hour Certification
- Nuclear instrumentation and radiation detection course
Career Growth
- National Registry of Radiation Protection Technologists (NRRPT) Certification
- Certified Health Physicist (CHP)
- American Board of Health Physics Comprehensive Examination
- Certified Safety Professional (CSP)
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Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Data sourced from official Navy publications and public military occupational references. Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.