About 80 percent of ultrasound technicians in 2008 were earning between $21 and $40 an hour.
Ultrasound technicians, also called diagnostic medical sonographers, record reflected sound waves of interior structures in a patient's body. These echoes are shown in image form, which allow physicians to diagnose and treat patients. Ultrasound technicians work in hospitals, imaging centers and physician private practices.
Starting Pay
Median starting hourly pay as of 2009 was $14, with an increase to $23 with five year's experience.
General Range
About 80 percent of ultrasound technicians in 2008 were earning between $21 and $40 an hour. Narrowing it further, the middle 50 percent were making between $25 and $36, with an average of about $30.
Considerations
Traveling ultrasound technicians, or those working on a per diem basis, can make higher pay, at around $35 on average, but these jobs typically do not provide benefits.
Geography
Several California greater metropolitan areas are the highest-paying regions in the country for ultrasound technicians. These include the Santa Cruz, San Jose, Oakland, and San Francisco regions, with pay between $38 and $46.
Potential
Ultrasound technicians who acquire additional education to specialize can earn higher pay. A senior cardiac ultrasound technologist in 2009 is making about $39 on average.
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