Definitions of positions

[Douglas.Minnema@dp.doe.gov]

    Dear RADSAFERs,
    
    I have often encountered positions described as "radiological 
    engineers" and "ALARA engineers" within various facilities.  I 
    have my own ideas as to what these two phrases define, but I am 
    finding that both the definitions of and the expectations upon 
    such positions are unclear and inconsistent from facility to 
    facility.  Therefore, I would like to ask a couple of 
    straightforward questions regarding your understandings of these 
    positions:
    
    -   What are the roles, responsibilities, and functions that are 
    associated with these positions, and how do they differ from what 
    is normally expected from a health physicist?
    
    -   What are the knowledges and skills that a person would be 
    expected to have in order to fulfill such expectations?
    
    Please note that I do not want to reopen the question of 
    professionalism and certification,  I am looking for technical 
    needs and capabilities.  Also, while I do have my own ideas, I 
    would prefer not to bias responders by offering them here.  If 
    anybody knows of a reference that defines these positions, please 
    pass it along.
    
    I suggest that responses be sent to me directly at the address 
    below.  If there is sufficient interest, I would be happy to 
    compile a summary and post it later.
    
    Thanks,
    
    Doug Minnema, CHP
    Defense Programs, DOE
    <Douglas.Minnema@dp.doe.gov>