What does an Oncologist do?

An Oncologist treats cancer by selecting appropriate treatments based on the latest oncology research. Depending on the stage and type of cancer, treatment plans may aim to help patients achieve full remission or extend their lives as long as possible. Some Oncologists specialize in specific fields, such as pediatrics, radiation therapy or cancers of the brain or female reproductive system, while others treat a broad patient population.

When writing your job description of an Oncologist, consider the needs of your practice to determine whether a specialist or a generalist is the right fit. You can then tailor your Oncologist job description by mentioning specialty skills, qualifications and experience.

Oncologist skills and qualifications

The following are qualifications that can indicate a quality candidate for your open position:

• Extensive knowledge of different cancers, treatments, medical ethics, palliative care, anatomy, biology, chemistry and physics

• Strong communication skills to interact professionally with patients and other medical providers

• Analytical skills to interpret the results of diagnostic testing and make accurate diagnoses

• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills to develop and revise effective treatment plans

• Active listening and interviewing skills to gather information from patients

• Time management and organizational skills to treat multiple patients at once

• Computer skills to use email, patient records management, spreadsheets and various software programs

• Familiarity with infection control procedures and regulations related to patient safety and privacy

Oncologist experience requirements

While obtaining their education, licensing and certification, Oncologists complete clinical rotations that provide them with hands-on work experience. Additional experience following a training program may not be necessary to succeed in the role. However, if your new hire will be serving in a leadership role, supervising other physicians or medical students, teaching courses or handling complex cases, you may wish to specify years of experience as a required qualification.

Oncologist education and training requirements

Formal education for Oncologists generally consists of a four-year bachelor’s degree and a four-year Medical Doctor (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. After earning their degrees, Doctors complete a residency, which may last three to seven years.

During or after their residencies, prospective Oncologists must take either the US Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMPLEX-USA) and gain a license to practice in their state.

Next, Doctors participate in a medical oncology fellowship for at least 24 months. The final step in becoming an Oncologist is passing the Medical Oncology exam to obtain certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM).

Job description samples for similar positions

If the above job description of an Oncologist isn’t what you’re looking for, review the descriptions for these related jobs:

• Internist

• Oncology Nurse

• Physician

• Surgeon

Oncologist job description FAQs

How can I make my oncology job description attractive to candidates?

To build interest in prospective candidates, start your oncology job description with a summary of the top benefits of joining your practice, such as student loan repayment assistance, relocation assistance, bonuses, continuing medical education (CME) allowances, retirement plans and paid malpractice insurance.

What’s the difference between a Board-Eligible Oncologist and a Board-Certified Oncologist?

A Board-Certified (BC) Oncologist has received full certification in Medical Oncology from the ABIM. A Board-Eligible (BE) Oncologist has completed the necessary education and training for certification but has yet to pass the examination. You might consider encouraging BE Oncologists to apply in your Oncologist job description, with an understanding that any job offer is contingent on their completed certification exam.

What’s the difference between an Oncologist and a Hematologist-Oncologist?

A Hematologist-Oncologist is a Doctor who treats cancer and diseases of the blood, while an Oncologist only sees patients with cancer. Hematologist-Oncologists complete longer fellowships and pass two ABIM certification examinations.