Radiology technicians operate machines to image the interior of the human body with such techniques as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging. Training can range from certificates to bachelor's degrees. Most states require licensing for the profession. In addition, the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists offers certification that can enhance opportunities and salaries.
Work
Radiology technicians work a standard 40-hour week that may include evening, weekend or on-call shifts for the convenience of patients. They must be able to stand for long periods and move patients to diagnostic machines. Radiation hazards are possible but are usually minimized with protective clothing such as lead aprons and gloves.
Techs also wear badges to measure their radiation exposure. Their median salary is $53,240 yearly, with a range of $35,700 to $75,440. This is equal to $25.59 per hour, with a range of $17.16 to $36.27. These figures come from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2009.
Employers
The biggest employers of radiology technicians are general medical and surgical hospitals, with nearly 60 percent of the available 213,560 positions. They pay $26.33 per hour or $54,770 per year. The highest paying employers were scientific and development services at $31.16 per hour or $64,800 per year. However, because they only have 180 jobs, as of 2009, positions in this sector were difficult to get.
Geography
The state with the best pay for radiology technicians is Massachusetts with a mean wage of $32.95 per hour or $68,530 per year spread out over 6,290 jobs. The city with the same distinction is San Jose, California, with pay at $37.64 per hour or $78,300 per year. However, they only had 670 jobs in 2009. Boston, Massachusetts, which is among the top five for pay, offered lower compensation at $34.88 per hour or $72,540 per year, but more opportunities at 3,380 jobs.
Outlook
Radiology technician jobs were expected to increase by 17 percent from 2008 to 2018, according to the BLS, which is faster than average for all jobs. The demand will come from an aging population that will experience more medical conditions requiring radiological imaging. Though hospitals will remain the top employer, many opportunities will arise in doctors' offices and diagnostic imaging centers. Those who are familiar with more than one type of imaging procedure will experience the best opportunities.
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