A career as a radiologic technologist is a rewarding path, blending healthcare expertise with cutting-edge technology to provide life-saving diagnostic services. If you enjoy working with both technology and patients, this might be the right profession for you. In this guide, we will explore the duties, salary, job outlook, and steps to becoming a radiologic technologist.

What is a Radiologic Technologist?

Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, laboratories, and physician offices. Under the supervision of doctors, they capture images to diagnose or monitor medical conditions. A radiologic technologist must be knowledgeable about health care, imaging technology, and radiation safety.

Radiologic Technologists Responsibilities

• Operate Imaging Equipment: Use advanced machines like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to create diagnostic images.
• Patient Preparation: Explain procedures, answer patient questions, and ensure they are comfortable before and during procedures.
• Safety Protocols: Minimise radiation exposure to patients and yourself by following strict safety guidelines.
• Communication: Coordinate with healthcare teams and maintain a calm environment for patients.
• Equipment Maintenance: Ensure all machines are in good working condition to produce high-quality images.

Some radiologic technologists specialise in areas such as:

• Mammography: Specialised low-dose X-ray imaging used for breast cancer detection.
• Sonography: Use of sound waves to capture images, typically of internal organs.
• Nuclear Medicine: Administering small amounts of radioactive material for imaging and treatment.

Radiologic Technologist Salary and Job Outlook

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2021, radiologic technologists earn a median annual salary of $61,370. The lowest 10% earn less than $46,850, while the highest 10% earn more than $94,880 annually. The job outlook is positive, with a projected growth of 6% between 2021 and 2031, leading to approximately 16,000 new job openings each year.

Percentile	Annual Salary
10th Percentile	Less than $46,850
Median Salary (50th Percentile)	$61,370
90th Percentile	More than $94,880

Radiologic technologists have slightly higher job growth compared to the national average for all occupations, making it a stable career choice.

Where Do Radiologic Technologists Work?

Radiologic technologists can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including:

• Hospitals: Radiologic technologists work in different hospital departments like emergency rooms, surgery centres, or radiology labs.
• Medical Laboratories: Diagnostic services are often provided for outpatient needs.
• Private Imaging Centers and Physician Offices: Many radiologic technologists are employed in private clinics and specialty care facilities.

According to BLS, 57% of radiologic technologists were employed in hospitals as of 2021, while others worked in outpatient care centres and diagnostic laboratories.

How to Become a Radiologic Technologist

Obtain Your Degree

Radiologic technologists typically need an associate or bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology or a related field. Some may also obtain post secondary certificates, which can provide entry-level opportunities. Programs often include clinical experience combined with classroom instruction in anatomy, radiation physics, and imaging procedures.

Get Certified or Licensed

Many states require radiologic technologists to be licensed or certified. Certification is often obtained through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), which requires passing an exam after completing a degree program. Each state has its own requirements, so it's important to research your state's licensing regulations.

Hone Your Skills

In addition to formal education, radiologic technologists need to develop key skills, such as:

• Communication Skills: Clear communication is essential for working with patients and healthcare teams.
• Technical Knowledge: Operating complex imaging equipment and understanding how to maintain it.
• Safety Awareness: Ensuring radiation exposure is minimised for both patients and staff.
• Attention to Detail: Accurate record-keeping and capturing clear diagnostic images.

Explore Career Advancement Opportunities

Radiologic technologists have several pathways for career advancement:

• MRI Technologist: With experience and additional coursework, you can specialise in magnetic resonance imaging.
• Mammography Technologist: Specialise in breast cancer detection by completing additional training.
• Chief Radiologic Technologist: This management role involves overseeing a radiology team and managing imaging departments.

Radiologic Technologist Training

The time it takes to become a radiologic technologist depends on the educational path you choose:

• Certificate Program: Can be completed in about one year, but it's essential to ensure the program meets accreditation standards.
• Associate Degree: The most common path, typically requiring two years to complete.
• Bachelor’s Degree: Offers more opportunities for career advancement and may take four years to complete.

Radiologic Technologist  Education

Degree/Certification	Duration	Opportunities
Certificate Program	1 year	Entry-level positions
Associate Degree	2 years	Most common path, entry-level
Bachelor's Degree	4 years	More advanced opportunities

Always check with your state licensing board to ensure that your education meets local requirements for certification and licensure.

Conclusion

A career as a radiologic technologist offers the opportunity to work directly with patients and advanced technology in a fast-growing field. With the right education, certification, and skills, you can pursue a stable and rewarding profession that plays a vital role in patient care. Whether you aim to specialise in a specific imaging technique or take on a management role, this field provides a range of career paths and opportunities for growth.

FAQs

What does a radiologic technologist do?

A radiologic technologist performs diagnostic imaging procedures such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. They prepare patients, operate imaging equipment, ensure safety, and assist doctors in diagnosing medical conditions.

How do I become a radiologic technologist?

You need an associate or bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology, followed by certification or licensure, depending on your state. Most states require passing an exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

How long does it take to become a radiologic technologist?

It typically takes 2 years to complete an associate degree, but certification programs may take 1 year, and bachelor’s degrees can take 4 years.

What skills are needed for a radiologic technologist?

Important skills include communication, technical proficiency with imaging equipment, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety procedures to limit radiation exposure.

Can a radiologic technologist specialise?

Yes, radiologic technologists can specialise in areas like MRI, mammography, or nuclear medicine, often requiring additional coursework or certifications.

Where do radiologic technologists work?

They work in hospitals, medical laboratories, private imaging centres, and physician offices. Most are employed in hospitals.