X-rays can be used to both diagnose and treat afflictions.
Radiologic technology is the practice of using complex medical machinery --- such as X-rays, mammography and magnetic resonance imaging --- to form images of the inside structures of the human body. These images are then used by radiologists and other physicians in the diagnosis of afflictions. Radiologic technicians (sometimes called technologists) perform this role.
Average Salary
The latest figures from the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, the body that calculates and catalogues pay and conditions in American industries, listed the yearly average income of a radiologic technician to be $52,210 as of 2010. This reflects basic salary and may be bolstered on an individual basis by the bonuses and benefits attendant to a technician's employment contract.
Salary by Experience
As a radiologic technician gains experience his earning potential is likely to increase. In part this is due to undertaking further training in advanced imaging technologies (such as computed tomography), but also because he is likely to have accrued better benefits, such as pension provision. PayScale.com found that while newly-qualified technicians could expect an average salary of $29,883 to $49,791 per year, those with between 10 and 19 years experience were attaining $75,987 to $90,000.
Salary by Employer
Radiologic technicians work in both the public and private sectors of the economy. With regards to the former, hospitals are by far the biggest employer. Salary analysis website PayScale.com places the average salary for a technician working in a hospital at between $31,315 and $50,480 per year. For those in private practice the figures are $25,434 to $51,883, while private companies offer between $23,489 and $43,909.
Salary by Location
The location in which a radiologic technician is employed can influence his salary level. A survey by PayScale in December 2010 found that of the states surveyed Arizona offered the lowest salaries, $24,566 to $40,695 per year, while California offered up to $75,000.
Training
Radiologic technician training courses typically last between 21 and 24 months and are pursued at either a university or a hospital. Successful completion of the course qualifies individuals to use X-rays in practical situations. Other technologies are learnt on-the-job.
Certification
Within the industry the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists is seen as the leading organization for ensuring professional standards. Individuals who pass an ARRT-approved training program can register with the organization. This is a mark of expertise that employers will look for.
Prospects
Radiologic technicians are likely to be able to secure excellent salary packages in the future as demand for their services is expected to rise. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 17 percent rise in demand for practitioners through to 2018.
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