Radiologic, or radiology, technicians and technologists operate equipment that produces x-rays and other images doctors use for diagnostic purposes. They also keep patient records and maintain equipment. Most radiologic techs work in hospitals. Demand for this profession is expected to increase by 17 percent between 2008 and 2018, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Average salary varies depending on experience, skill level and type of employment.
Job Features
Radiologic technicians concentrate on x-rays for imaging, while radiologic technologists have acquired further training so they can use additional forms of imaging, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The techs explain the procedure to the patient, position the patient for the exam and record the images. Over 60 percent of these techs worked in hospitals as of 2009, and most others in doctors' offices, outpatient care centers and medical and diagnostic laboratories, including diagnostic imaging centers, as reported by the BLS.
Salary by Experience
Aspiring radiology techs can complete formal training in vocational schools, universities and hospitals. Most radiologic technicians and technologists hold an associate's degree, while some obtain a one-year certificate or a four-year bachelor's degree. Most states mandate licensing for these workers, with requirements varying by state. Median hourly pay for radiologic technicians with up to four years of experience as of December 2010 was $12.90 to $20.40, and for technologists $16.70 to $22.40, according to PayScale.
Salary Range
The BLS includes technicians and technologists together in its salary figures for this profession, finding an average salary as of May 2009 at about $26 per hour or $54,200 per year. The middle 50 percent of these techs on the earnings scale were making about $43,500 to $64,000 annually, and the top 10 percent had incomes over $75,400.
Employment Types
PayScale shows popular employment situations for radiologist technologists and technicians in hospitals, orthopedic surgery, medical services and general radiology. Technicians were earning about $15.80 to $25.30 per hour as a median range and technologists about $17.90 to $25.60.
Employment Outlook
Although salaries are not significantly different for radiologist technicians and technologists at this point, those who can conduct more than one type of procedure will have better chances for employment, advises the BLS. Employment outlook is good because of an aging population likely to experience more illness and injury that calls for diagnostic imaging.
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