X-rays may be used to check the efficacy of a treatment.
A radiologic technologist works in a medical environment using forms of diagnostic imaging equipment. These may include X-rays, mammography and computed tomography scans. The images he produces are used by physicians and surgeons in determining the nature of afflictions and proposing their treatment. His salary reflects his position as a member of support staff and can vary dependent upon his individual circumstances.
Average Salary
In its Occupational Outlook Handbook for 2010-2011, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics listed the average yearly salary of a radiologic technologist working in America as $51,210 as of 2008. The lowest 10 percent earned an average of less than $35,100 while the top 10 percent secured more than $74,970.
Salary by Employer
A key influence on the salary level for a radiologic technologist is the nature of her employer. In December 2010, PayScale surveyed the three main types of employer. Hospitals offered an average salary of $31,315 to $50,480, private companies had figures of $23,489 to $43,909 and private medical practices were listed at $25,434 to $51,883.
Salary by Experience
PayScale, in its December 2010 survey, discovered that radiologic technologists can expect to be rewarded for remaining in their profession for an extended period of time. Those with less than a year of professional experience earned an average income of $29,833 to $49,791 while those who had accrued between five and nine years could earn up to $54,045. For veterans of 10 to 19 years in the field the figures rose to $75,987 to $90,000.
Salary by Location
Where a radiologic technologists chooses to work can make a big difference to his income. PayScale analyzed average salaries in several states across the country and found that California offered the broadest range -- $35,000 to $75,000 -- while Texas had the smallest -- $39,149 to $50,980.
Training
In order to become a practicing radiologic technician, the minimum training required is a course teaching the utilization of X-ray machinery. Such courses usually last 21 to 24 months and the candidate takes them at a medical facility or a university. She can then undertake further training and examination regarding other technologies, which should raise her earning potential.
Prospects
The federal Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a rise of 17 percent in demand for qualified radiologic technologists in the decade 2008-2018. Increased rates of illness and disease within the American population as it gets older, fuelled by the baby-boomer generation reaching retirement age, will cause this rise. Diagnostic imaging specialists should, therefore, keep securing healthy salary levels.
Tags: radiologic technologist, radiologic technologists, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, December 2010