Careers: Government

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Description:

A health physics career within the state or federal government can vary significantly in focus. You could become a regulator, a regulations developer, a homeland security expert, an emergency response expert, an inspector, or even an advisor to the President.

A health physicist plays a critical role in the portion of the government dedicated to public health and safety. Interactions are typically on a much more global scale than across an organization or two.

Requirements for Positions in a Government Setting1:

Because these positions are so varied and staff is needed at all levels (administration, inspection, standard setting, national laboratory researcher, etc.), the requirements vary. Generally, minimum qualifications would be a BS in health physics or a similar science with preference given to those with an MS and American Board of Health Physics certification.

Average Annual Salary2: $102,000

See the HPS Salary Survey

Example Agencies

Ask Cynthia G. Jones, PhD, senior technical advisor for nuclear security at the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, about a governmental career.

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1This is an example only. Some organizations may require graduate degrees.
2Increases by $27,000 per year with certification by the American Board of Health Physics.