Radiology technologists' eyes go where most human eyes cannot go.
Radiology technologists, also known as X-ray specialists or radiology technicians, make a living by seeing inside the human body, using machines, film and radiation-protection devices to keep their patients safe. The radiology technology field is strictly regulated with education minimums, but those X-ray technologists interested in the highest salaries have many potential opportunities to increase their take-home pay with extra education and careful employment planning.
National Average Salary
In 2009, approximately 213,560 radiologists worked the X-ray, CT and MRI scanning machines across the country. The nation's average salary for the profession, reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), was $53,240 per year. The radiology techs at the highest earning level in the 90th percentile averaged salaries of $75,440 per year.
Location, Location, Location
Earning one of the top radiology technologist salaries in 2009 had much to do with location. Techs in Massachusetts earned the top salaries that year, at $68,530. Nevada's radiology techs also earned far higher than the national average, at $66,420. Maryland paid its techs a higher-than-average salary of $65,820, and so did Hawaii' and the District of Columbia at $63,470 and $63,270 respectively.
Think Outside the Clinic
Although hospitals and physicians' offices were, logically, the two top employers of radiology technicians, their average salaries of $54,770 and $50,860 didn't make the BLS top five. Radiologists looking for the most bang for their X-rays were paid the highest through the scientific research and development services industry, at $64,800. Radiology techs working in both consulting services and through temporary employment firms also earned higher salaries, at $61,970 and $59,620 respectively. Specialty hospitals beat the national average as well, with salaries of $58,320.
Getting to the Top
Prospective radiology technologists have a number of ways to increase their salaries. While a minimum of a certificate is required to enter the profession, radiology technicians who pursue higher education in the form of an associate's degree or bachelor's degree may receive higher salaries, though it is not a guarantee. The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology accredits programs in radiology technology throughout the country. Another possible way to boost salaries is through voluntary credentials offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
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