X-ray is the first imaging technique a radiologic technician learns.
A radiology tech, also known as a radiologic technologist or technician, uses technical machinery to construct images of the inside of the human body. She may use technologies such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography (CT), depending upon her experience. Usually employed in a hospital or other medical facility, her salary will reflect her experience and vary according to several other factors.
Average Pay
In the survey of American salaries published in 2008, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics placed the median annual salary for a radiologic technician at $52,210. Some practitioners will earn less, while others can earn considerably more. Each individual salary will be augmented differently by the package of benefits an employer offers.
Pay by Location
The state in which a technician practices is a factor in determining his salary. A survey by salary comparison website PayScale, conducted in December 2010, found that California offered the greatest salary range -- from $35,000 to $75,000 -- while Texas offered the smallest -- $39,149 to $50,980.
Pay by Employer
Most radiologic technicians work for hospitals. PayScale placed the average salary for these individuals between $31,315 and $50,480. Some technicians do work in the private sector, for a private medical practice or a company. PayScale found the upper level of average pay for these employers to be $51,883 and $43,909 respectively.
Pay by Experience
The most influential factor in determining a radiologic technician's salary expectations is her experience. With more years in the field she is likely to master more techniques and thus make herself more attractive to employers. PayScale found that for those with between 10 and 19 years of experience the average salary was between $75,987 and $90,000.
Training
To become a radiologic technician able to use X-ray machinery, an individual must complete a course that typically lasts between 21 and 24 months. Both medical schools and hospitals offer such courses. Good high school grades, particularly in math and science, are key factors in acceptance into a course. Technicians generally undertake training in other imaging techniques after securing an employment position.
Certification
The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists allows individuals who have graduated from an ARRT-approved training program to voluntarily register themselves with the organization. The ARRT is recognized by the industry as a leading standard bearer and many employers will look for this certification among potential employees.
Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that demand for radiologic technicians will rise by 17 percent through to the year 2018. Those technicians experienced in different techniques of image generation are likely to attain the best salary packages, particularly if they are willing to work in rural or low-income areas as these locations typically struggle to attract qualified medical staff.
Tags: radiologic technician, average salary, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, factor determining, found that, Labor Statistics