A radiologic technologist may take X-rays to check if an operation has been successful.
A radiologic technologist conducts procedures using imaging technology in a medical environment for the purposes of diagnosis. Working under the supervision of radiologists, a technologist uses X-rays and, possibly, other imaging technologies such as magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography to create images of the internal structures of the human body. These images are then used by physicians to determine illness and injury suffered by the patient. A radiologic technologist's salary depends upon a number of factors.
Average Salary
The latest figures concerning occupational employment and wages produced by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), published in May 2009, listed the average yearly salary for a radiologic technologist as $54,180, equivalent to $26.05 per hour. The BLS also reported that the median salary for the profession was $53,240, or $25.59 an hour. The top bracket of earners, the highest 10 percent, received an average wage of $75,440 yearly or $36.27 an hour. The lowest 10 percent earned a mean salary of $35,700 a year, equal to $17.16 hourly.
Salary by Industry
The majority of radiologic technologists are employed in general medical and surgical hospitals. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average annual salary for that sector of the healthcare industry is $54,770. Radiologic technologists who find employment in scientific research and development services should receive more, with the BLS reporting average salaries of $64,800, while specialty hospitals also offer better rewards than their general counterparts at $58,320. Outpatient care centers are listed at $52,950 while employment within the offices of physicians brings a pay packet of $50,860.
Salary by Location
Geographical location also influences the pay a radiologic technologist receives. The Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2009 data suggests that Massachusetts and Nevada are the best places to secure the highest salaries, paying an average of $68,530 and $66,420, respectively. Hawaii and the District of Columbia pay similar wages -- $63,470 and $63,270, respectively -- as do Kentucky and South Dakota -- $45,840 and $44,970. For metropolitan areas, the San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara district of California is listed as paying the best rates -- $78,330 -- much higher than, for example, Wheeling, West Virginia, where wages average $40,190.
Registration
Registration for radiologic technologists is voluntary, but is likely to secure better employment and salary opportunities. Candidates who complete a certificate, associate degree or a bachelor's degree in radiologic technology at a school approved by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) can sit an examination developed by the same body to gain certification. The exam is made up of 200 questions, divided into five categories: radiation protection and quality assurance, clinical concepts in radiation oncology, treatment planning, treatment delivery, and patient care and education. Because registration with the ARRT requires regular assessment to ensure compliance with its rules and its standards of ethics, employers look favorably on registered candidates.
Prospects
The employment outlook for radiologic technologists practicing in the United States is, at least according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, bright. The BLS predicts a 17 percent rise in opportunities through 2018. An aging population requiring more diagnostic imaging and the increased incidence of successful procedures requiring radiologic imaging to monitor their progress will fuel this growth. As a result, salary levels for the profession should remain exceedingly competitive.
Tags: Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, Labor Statistics, radiologic technologist, radiologic technologist
