Cyclotron Senior Technologist

The Cyclotron Senior Technologist is responsible for servicing and maintaining the TR24 cyclotron as well as other equipment related to radionuclide production and its subsequent processing at the Medical Isotope and Cyclotron Facility (MICF). The candidate must understand cyclotron operation and be knowledgeable in all aspects of the various sub systems of the machine to troubleshoot problems and aid in their repair. Proactive maintenance is critical to provide an uninterrupted radionuclide supply given the demanding schedule of the cyclotron (16 h/day) and the continual radiation damage to cyclotron components. 

The cyclotron produces radioactive medical isotopes. The Cyclotron Senior Technologist may be exposed to areas where high doses of radiation have been present and must demonstrate a thorough understanding of all relevant radiation safety procedures. An understanding of safety protocols related to the high voltages produced by the cyclotron power supplies is required. The incumbent must be able to work selected weekends and be on call for evening duty, as well as be able to work occasional night shifts when emergency F-18 back-up supply is required. This position is also part of the rotation for being on 24 hour call as a MICF facilities emergency contact person.

Duties

• Performs preventive maintenance and first-line repair of the TR24 cyclotron under the guidance of the manufacturer (ACSI)
• Troubleshoots and fixes problems in order to maintain uninterrupted radionuclide supply
• Provides electronics support for complex instrumentation related to radionuclide production, recovery, and purification; this may include electronic or mechanical operational support for automated synthesis units used to produce radiopharmaceutical precursors or final products
• Installs and qualifies new machinery and instrumentation at the Medical Isotope and Cyclotron Facility
• Implements required safety modifications and upgrades on the cyclotron and related radionuclide recovery and processing systems
• Writes and/or reviews all relevant standard operating procedures related the safe operation of the cyclotron and associated radionuclide recovery and processing systems
• Operates the cyclotron and trains new operators
• Understands and evaluates cyclotron malfunctions such as PLC malfunctioning, RF sparking, magnet crashing etc. and, if appropriate, fixes the problem; ascertains why it happened (e.g. magnet ramp down too fast - back EMF surge blowing transistor) and writes up a comprehensive incident report to aid in future trouble-shooting
• Keeps a spare part supply on site, manages spare part supply chain with suppliers and maintains an up-to-date list of contacts for repairs/maintenance by subcontractors
• Performs CNSC and/or RSO mandated radiation safety activities and documentation

Qualifications

• Completion of Electronics Technology, Biomedical Technology or Electronics Engineering Technology diploma from a recognized institution
• Minimum of 2 years of instrument technology experience or the equivalent training
• Training in cyclotron theory
• Computer and organizational skills would be a strong asset
• A formal course in radiation safety training is required and will be provided by the employer unless the candidate can demonstrate equivalent training; the incumbent must also successfully complete a factory training course from the manufacturer (ACSI) and comply with CNSC guidelines to prior undertaking service and/or repair of the cyclotron
• Ability to demonstrate a sound knowledge of cyclotron sub systems
• Experience in working with the high voltage components (and the associated static hazard which could be present when not running) is a requirement, as the cyclotron has both high current (low voltage) subsystems, as well as high voltage components.
• Moderate degree of mechanical aptitude