Health Physics Jobs UK
Published 5 November 2026 · Cumbria Works editorial
Explore health physics careers in the UK nuclear industry
Health physics is a crucial aspect of the nuclear industry, focusing on the protection of people and the environment from the harmful effects of radiation. In the UK, health physics professionals play a vital role in ensuring the safe operation of nuclear facilities, including those in Cumbria. To pursue a career in health physics, one must understand the various routes and specializations available, including RPA, RPS, monitoring, dosimetry, and contamination control.
Introduction to Health Physics Routes
There are several routes to a career in health physics, each with its own set of qualifications and experience requirements. Some of the key routes include:
- RPA (Radiation Protection Adviser): responsible for providing advice on radiation protection and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations
- RPS (Radiation Protection Supervisor): responsible for overseeing radiation protection activities and ensuring the safe handling of radioactive materials
- Monitoring: involves the measurement and assessment of radiation levels to ensure the safe operation of nuclear facilities
- Dosimetry: focuses on the measurement and calculation of radiation doses to ensure the safe exposure of workers and the public
- Contamination control: involves the prevention and mitigation of radioactive contamination to ensure the safe operation of nuclear facilities
Qualifications and Experience Requirements
The qualifications and experience requirements for health physics professionals vary depending on the specific role and employer. However, some common requirements include:
- A degree in a relevant field, such as physics, engineering, or environmental science
- Relevant experience in the nuclear industry or a related field
- Professional certifications, such as RPA or RPS
- Strong understanding of radiation protection principles and regulations
Current Job Market
Currently, there are various job openings in the UK nuclear industry that require health physics professionals. Some examples include:
- Radiation Protection Adviser roles at companies like EDF Energy and National Nuclear Laboratory
- Radiation Protection Supervisor roles at companies like Amentum and Bechtel
- Monitoring and dosimetry roles at companies like Sellafield and BAE Systems
- Contamination control roles at companies like Altrad and Kier Group
Locations and Employers
Health physics professionals can be found working at various locations across the UK, including Cumbria, where many nuclear facilities are located. Some of the major employers in the industry include:
- EDF Energy
- National Nuclear Laboratory
- Amentum
- Bechtel
- Sellafield
- BAE Systems
- Altrad
- Kier Group
Next steps
To learn more about health physics careers in the UK nuclear industry, visit our jobs page to search for current vacancies. You can also set up job alerts to receive notifications about new job openings that match your skills and interests. For more information on careers in the nuclear industry, visit our career guide.
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