Radiology technicians explain imaging procedures to patients.
Radiologic technicians, also known as radiographers, use imaging techniques such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to produce pictures that physicians review to diagnose medical problems. The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies radiologic technicians under the job category "radiologic technologists and technicians," and notes that postsecondary training is needed to qualify for employment.
Features
As of May 2010, radiologic technologists and technicians earned an annual mean wage of $55,730, or $4,644 monthly, according to the bureau's Occupational Employment Statistics survey. Salaries in this occupation ranged from $36,510, or $3,042 per month for the bottom 10 percent, to $76,850, or $6,404 monthly for the top 10 percent. The median wage for radiologic technicians and technologists was $54,340, or $4,528 monthly. To calculate the annual mean wage, the bureau multiplied the hourly mean wage of $26.80 by 2,080 -- the average number of hours worked by a "full-time, year-round" employee. To get the monthly rate, divide this number by 12.
Industries
"General medical and surgical hospitals" was the industry sector that reported the highest employment level for radiologic technologists and technicians. In that sector, the annual mean wage was $55,880, or $4,657 per month. Scientific research and development services was the industry sector with the highest annual mean wage for radiologic technologists and technicians as of May 2010 -- $66,910, or $5,576. Other high-paying industries for this occupation included specialty hospitals at $60,550, or $5,046 per month, and employment services at $59,120, or $4,927. As of May 2010, there were 216,730 radiologic technologists and technicians working in the U.S., according to the bureau.
Locations
California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Ohio reported the highest employment levels for radiologic technologists and technicians as of May 2010. In those states, salaries ranged from $50,170, or $4,181 per month in Ohio, to $66,040, or $5,503 monthly in California. Massachusetts was the highest-paying state for this occupation, with an annual mean wage of $78,920, or $6,577 monthly. Eight of the 10 highest-paying metropolitan areas for this occupation were in California. However, it was Boston that topped the list with a mean annual wage of $89,690, or $7,474.
Considerations
The bureau estimates employment for radiologic technologists and technicians will increase by 17 percent through 2018. This fast job growth will be largely spurred by an aging population's need for imaging services. Additionally, imaging helps lower health care costs by detecting diseases early. The bureau notes CT and MRI scans are being used more, so earning certification in one or both areas can result in better job opportunities for aspiring techs.
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