Medical Dosimetrists
Medical dosimetrists create radiation treatment plans for cancer patients and calculate precise radiation doses delivered to tumors. They work in hospitals and cancer treatment centers, collaborating with radiation oncologists and physicists. Dosimetrists use specialized computer software to design treatments and oversee their implementation to ensure patient safety.
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A day in the work
Medical dosimetrists spend their time developing and refining treatment plans using imaging data and dose calculation software. A typical week involves consulting with oncologists about treatment goals, performing detailed calculations to optimize radiation delivery, reviewing completed treatments for accuracy, and documenting all planning decisions. They may also troubleshoot technical issues with treatment equipment and answer questions from the radiation therapy team.
Who this work suits
Holland code ICR. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You'd do well in this role if you enjoy systematic problem-solving and working with detailed technical information. People who succeed here typically prefer investigative work—analyzing data and designing precise solutions—combined with conventional thinking that values accuracy, established procedures, and clear documentation.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $169,670 | $189,280 | $213,390 | 60 |
| Oregon | $176,950 | $183,990 | $200,310 | 40 |
| New Jersey | $158,020 | $170,650 | $195,850 | 90 |
| New York | $141,300 | $166,540 | $181,050 | 300 |
| Illinois | $137,970 | $163,860 | $169,500 | 140 |
| Georgia | $133,110 | $155,390 | $175,270 | 140 |
| Florida | $139,330 | $153,490 | $163,390 | 320 |
| Ohio | $129,970 | $150,900 | $159,130 | — |
| Kansas | $124,410 | $150,670 | $168,020 | 40 |
| North Carolina | $135,820 | $147,830 | $161,100 | 140 |
| Maryland | $136,090 | $147,470 | $153,500 | 40 |
| Indiana | $134,320 | $144,320 | $154,160 | 60 |
All 27 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against medical dosimetrists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-2036.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.