What Is the Starting Pay for an X-Ray Technician?
An X-ray technician is a professional who performs diagnostic testing, using radioactive energy to take pictures of the interior anatomical structures of patients. The average starting pay for X-ray technicians varies based upon their education, any certifications they have in the field, and where they live.
Average Range
In December 2009, the average hourly wage for X-ray technicians with less than one year of experience ranged from $11 to $19.47, according to Payscale.com. Based on a 40-hour work week, that translates to roughly $22,880 to $40,497 per year.
Education
X-ray technicians with Associates of Applied Science degrees earned the highest average starting pay rates at $17.90 in December 2009, reports Payscale.com. Community and junior colleges offer Associates of Applied Science degree programs for X-ray technicians, which typically require two years of study to complete.
Certification
X-ray technicians who held mammography radiology technologist certifications from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) earned the highest average starting wages at $24.03 per hour, while those with ARRT computerized tomography certification received above average starting wages as well at $20.03 per hour, according to December 2009 reporting on Payscale.com. Both certifications require technicians to pass a series of written examinations offered by the AART.
Geography
In December 2009, average starting pay rates for X-ray technicians were highest in the state of New York at $23.99 per hour, according to Payscale.com. Other high paying states for X-ray technicians include Illinois, Michigan and California.
Employers
As of December 2009, non-profit organizations and hospitals paid the highest average hourly starting rates for X-ray technicians at $17.00 and $16.71, according to Indeed.com.
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