What Does a Radiation Therapist Do?
A radiation therapist administers radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other medical conditions as prescribed by oncologists. They operate specialized equipment to deliver precise doses of radiation, position patients accurately, and monitor them throughout treatment sessions. Radiation therapists also play a vital role in maintaining safety standards to protect patients and healthcare staff from unnecessary exposure.
Beyond operating equipment, radiation therapists provide patient care and support during what can be a challenging medical experience. They explain procedures, answer questions, and monitor side effects, ensuring that treatments are delivered safely and compassionately. Working closely with radiation oncologists, dosimetrists, and oncology nurses, radiation therapists are key members of the cancer care team.
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Radiation Therapist Core Responsibilities
- Administer prescribed radiation treatments using specialized equipment
- Position patients accurately and ensure immobilization devices are used properly
- Monitor patients during treatment sessions and respond to adverse reactions
- Maintain detailed treatment records and documentation for compliance
- Collaborate with radiation oncologists and dosimetrists on treatment planning
- Calibrate and check radiation equipment for safe and accurate operation
- Educate patients about procedures and provide ongoing support
- Follow strict safety protocols to minimize radiation exposure risks
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in operating radiation therapy equipment
- Knowledge of human anatomy, radiation safety, and oncology practices
- Ability to interpret treatment plans and technical instructions
- Familiarity with electronic medical records and healthcare documentation
Soft skills
- Compassion and empathy when working with patients
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Attention to detail and precision in following protocols
- Ability to remain calm under pressure in a clinical environment
- Teamwork and collaboration with multidisciplinary staff
Education
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy from an accredited program
Certifications
- ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) certification in radiation therapy required
- State licensure required in most states
- CPR certification may also be required
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy or related healthcare field
- Experience in oncology or hospital-based radiation therapy centers
- Familiarity with advanced techniques such as IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) or stereotactic treatments
- Bilingual communication skills to better support diverse patient populations
National Average Salary
Radiation therapist salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Radiation Therapist is:
$85,345
Sample Job Description Templates for Radiation Therapists
Entry-Level Radiation Therapist
Position Overview
We are looking for an entry-level radiation therapist to join our oncology team and provide safe, accurate radiation treatments to patients. This role is ideal for recent graduates who are compassionate, detail-oriented, and eager to build a career in cancer care. Under the supervision of senior staff, you will gain hands-on experience with advanced therapy equipment while supporting patients through their treatment journey.
Responsibilities
- Deliver prescribed radiation treatments under direct supervision
- Accurately position and immobilize patients for therapy sessions
- Operate treatment equipment following safety protocols
- Monitor patients during procedures and report side effects
- Maintain accurate treatment records and documentation
- Assist in equipment checks and calibration tasks
- Provide emotional support and clear explanations to patients and families
Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic knowledge of radiation therapy equipment and safety procedures
- Ability to read and interpret treatment instructions
- Familiarity with healthcare documentation systems
Soft skills
- Compassion and empathy when working with patients
- Effective communication skills
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions
- Willingness to learn and adapt to clinical environments
Education
- Associate’s degree in radiation therapy from an accredited program
Certifications
- ARRT certification in radiation therapy required (or eligibility to obtain)
- State licensure required where applicable
- CPR certification recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship or clinical rotation in a hospital or oncology center
- Familiarity with electronic medical record (EMR) systems
Mid-Level Radiation Therapist
Position Overview
Our oncology department is seeking a mid-level radiation therapist to administer daily treatments and support patients throughout their care. This role requires hands-on experience in a clinical setting and the ability to work independently while collaborating with oncologists, dosimetrists, and nursing staff.
Responsibilities
- Perform daily treatment delivery with accuracy and consistency
- Review and verify patient setup, treatment plans, and immobilization devices
- Conduct quality assurance checks on equipment before use
- Monitor patients during sessions and respond to side effects appropriately
- Document treatments in compliance with clinical and regulatory standards
- Collaborate with oncologists and medical physicists to adjust treatment procedures as necessary
- Mentor and support entry-level therapists during clinical activities
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in operating linear accelerators and related therapy equipment
- Strong understanding of anatomy and radiation physics
- Knowledge of EMR systems and treatment documentation practices
Soft skills
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- Clear communication with patients and medical staff
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced clinical environment
- Team-oriented and collaborative
Education
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy
Certifications
- ARRT certification in radiation therapy required
- State licensure required in most states
- CPR certification required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with advanced treatment techniques such as IMRT or IGRT
- Background in hospital-based oncology care
Senior Radiation Therapist
Position Overview
We are hiring a senior radiation therapist to lead treatment delivery, oversee junior staff, and ensure compliance with clinical and safety standards. This role is best suited for an experienced professional with advanced technical knowledge and a commitment to patient-centered care.
Responsibilities
- Lead daily treatment operations and patient scheduling
- Supervise and mentor junior and mid-level therapists
- Ensure accurate treatment delivery and adherence to protocols
- Conduct routine quality assurance and calibration of equipment
- Collaborate with oncologists and physicists on complex treatment plans
- Provide patient education and ongoing emotional support
- Prepare and analyze treatment data for performance review
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced expertise in radiation therapy practices and equipment
- Ability to lead complex treatment setups and procedures
- Strong knowledge of radiation safety and regulatory requirements
Soft skills
- Leadership and mentoring abilities
- Strong interpersonal and patient care skills
- Analytical and organizational abilities
- Effective communication with multidisciplinary teams
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy or related field
Certifications
- ARRT certification in radiation therapy required
- State licensure required
- CPR certification required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) or stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)
- Prior leadership role in a hospital or oncology clinic
Lead Radiation Therapist
Position Overview
The lead radiation therapist is responsible for coordinating therapy operations, supervising staff, and ensuring treatments are delivered accurately and safely. This role combines direct patient care with administrative and leadership responsibilities to support the oncology department’s goals.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and coordinate daily schedules for the therapy team
- Monitor treatment delivery and ensure adherence to protocols
- Train and evaluate staff performance
- Oversee equipment maintenance and safety compliance
- Collaborate with department leadership on workflow and resource planning
- Serve as the primary point of contact for patient escalations or concerns
- Participate in departmental audits and continuous improvement initiatives
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in operating radiation therapy equipment and managing clinical workflows
- Strong understanding of advanced treatment planning and QA procedures
- Ability to prepare and review compliance documentation
Soft skills
- Leadership and team management skills
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities
- Excellent communication with patients and staff
- Organizational skills to manage multiple priorities
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy or related healthcare field
Certifications
- ARRT certification in radiation therapy required
- State licensure required
- CPR certification required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience leading a team of therapists in a clinical setting
- Background in implementing new treatment techniques or technologies
Chief Radiation Therapist
Position Overview
We are seeking a chief radiation therapist to lead the department’s clinical operations, manage therapy staff, and collaborate with physicians and hospital leadership to deliver world-class patient care. This executive-level role requires extensive clinical experience, proven leadership skills, and a commitment to advancing oncology treatment practices.
Responsibilities
- Provide overall leadership and direction for the radiation therapy department
- Manage staffing, training, and professional development of therapists
- Oversee treatment quality, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance
- Collaborate with oncologists, physicists, and administrators to improve patient outcomes
- Manage departmental budgets, schedules, and resources
- Lead strategic initiatives to adopt new technologies and treatment methods
- Represent the department in executive meetings and accreditation reviews
Requirements
Hard skills
- Extensive knowledge of radiation therapy equipment and advanced treatment techniques
- Proven ability to manage budgets, resources, and clinical workflows
- Strong understanding of regulatory compliance and accreditation standards
Soft skills
- Executive-level leadership and management skills
- Excellent communication and collaboration across departments
- Ability to drive innovation and implement organizational change
- Strong patient advocacy and commitment to quality care
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy required; master’s degree preferred
Certifications
- ARRT certification in radiation therapy required
- State licensure required
- CPR certification required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience leading large oncology or hospital-based departments
- Active involvement in oncology or radiology professional organizations