Some radiation technicians perform CT scans or MRIs.
There are different careers available to you if you have a radiation technology certificate. Most accredited educational programs for radiation technologists result in an associate's degree, however, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 213 accredited programs in 2010 that provide a certificate to students. Your career choices will vary depending on your training and areas of specialty. Most states require radiation technologists to be licensed through the state health board and there is also a voluntary certification program.
Instructions
1. Become licensed or certified through your state health board after you complete your certification program. You will need this credential in order to find a career in radiation technology.
2. Contact the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) to become voluntarily certified. If you graduated from an ARRT-approved program, you will be eligible for certification. Many employers prefer to hire certified radiation technologists and technicians. To maintain your ARRT certification, you will have to complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years.
3. Update your resume to include your certificate in radiation technology, training, and any licensing or certification credential you have obtained. Be sure to include any internship or volunteer positions you held while in the radiation technology field.
4. Apply at local hospitals.The majority of radiation technologists work at hospitals and outpatient surgical centers. E-mail or drop off your resume at potential employers in your community.
5. Search through online job databases and classified ads. You may have missed a company in your area or a local physician's office may be hiring. Apply for any additional job openings you have found.
6. Follow up with job leads. If you don't hear from a potential employer after you applied, you can call to check the status of your application after a week. Attend all interviews and dress professionally. You may have to accept a lower salary in the radiation technology field because of your lack of experience but you will advance fast with experience.
7. Continue training after you are employed. Take voluntary and mandatory training in order to maintain your skills. If you became ARRT-certified, be sure to have at least 24 hours in continuing education every two years.
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