Description
About the Company
At Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, we are committed to providing exceptional healthcare services to all New Zealanders. Grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, we strive to build a health system that is inclusive and equitable. We are excited to announce a new opportunity to join our dedicated team in Whangarei's state-of-the-art Radiation Oncology Unit, where you can make a meaningful impact on cancer care in Northland.
About the Role
We are seeking a Principal Physicist to lead our dedicated Physics team in the new Radiation Oncology Unit. This role presents a unique opportunity to combine clinical excellence with the development of cutting-edge technology in a beautiful location. As the Principal Physicist, you will lead a small team and play a crucial part in the launch of the facility.
Your initial responsibilities will include acceptance testing and commissioning of Northland's first linear accelerator and CT scanner, overseeing radiation safety, dosimetry, and quality assurance in Whangarei. You will also collaborate with IT teams to expand critical systems in Auckland to support the new facility. To prepare for this significant launch, you will initially work with the Auckland Physics team, gaining valuable experience before transitioning to Whangarei. Your early focus will be on project management, supporting workforce recruitment, developing local protocols, IT implementation, and clinical equipment commissioning to ensure the department is ready to open in June 2026.
You will receive strong support from the regional Te Puriri o Te Ora leadership and work closely with other key personnel as they are appointed. This role offers the chance to build a service from the ground up, drive innovation, enhance patient outcomes, and advance world-class radiation therapy in the region. Additionally, you will have access to ongoing professional development, including attendance at international courses and conferences, as well as vendor training.
About the Team/Service/Location
The Radiation Oncology service is a vital component of the Te Puriri o Te Ora Regional Cancer and Blood Service. Our dedicated team, which includes Radiation Therapists, Medical Physicists, Radiation Oncologists, and support staff, delivers approximately 48,000 radiation therapy treatments annually across the Northern Region.
We are excited to expand our services to include Northland with the construction of a new $60.9 million radiation therapy facility in Whangarei. This center will feature a Varian TrueBeam linear accelerator with HyperSight and SGRT, an additional bunker for future expansion, a Siemens X.Cite CT scanner, RayStation Treatment Planning System, ARIA OIS, and additional chemotherapy spaces. Once completed, this facility will provide life-changing access to cancer treatment for hundreds of Northlanders who currently travel to Auckland for care.
The previous Minister of Health, Dr. Shane Reti, has highlighted the significant positive impact of this expansion, noting that having a LINAC facility at Whangarei Hospital will ensure more timely access to treatment for patients, particularly those from remote areas.
About You
To be considered for this position, you should be a qualified medical physicist (ACPSEM Certified ROMP or equivalent) with a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience post-qualification. However, we are open to applications from physicists with less experience who meet our other criteria.
For further information or to have an informal discussion about this opportunity, please feel free to contact Laura Ciurlionis, Head of Radiation Oncology Medical Physics, at +64 (0) 21539154 or via email at lciurlionis@adhb.govt.nz.
Working at Health New Zealand
At Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, we value diversity and inclusivity within our workforce, recognizing that a diverse team is essential for understanding and serving our community effectively. We encourage applications from individuals across Maori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.
Why You Will Enjoy Working Here
In Te Tai Tokerau Northland, you will be based at Whangarei Hospital, where you can enjoy the stunning surroundings and vibrant community. The region offers great schools, affordable housing, and easy access to Auckland, allowing you to live and work in the "winterless north." Join us in making a real difference in cancer care for the people of Northland.
To Apply
If this role is of interest, please Apply Now and submit your updated CV by following the link.
Please note: To be considered for this position, you must be eligible to work in New Zealand, with valid work rights.
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