Not all jobs related to radiologic technology require a medical background or education.
Medical professionals use radiologic technology to take diagnostic images of patients' organs or to reduce the size of cancer cells and tumors. Radiologic technologists must complete training and gain certification in the field; however, there are some nonmedical jobs related to the field of radiologic technology.
Medical Equipment Technician
Medical equipment technicians are responsible for fixing, maintaining and calibrating the medical equipment used in hospitals and health care facilities. These individuals are also sometimes referred to as biomedical equipment technicians, and they are trained to repair medical imaging equipment such as X-ray machines, CAT scanners and other radiological technologies. They are also often responsible for repairing and maintaining patient monitors, operating room tables and similar equipment. Individuals interested in working in the field often earn an associate's degree in biomedical equipment technology. They gain the training necessary to work with electronics, controls and electrical systems. They also learn apply that training specifically toward medical equipment. The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) offers the Certified Radiology Equipment Specialist (CRES) designation for those technicians who specialize in fixing radiologic equipment.
Biomedical Engineer
Medical equipment technicians may be responsible for repairing health care equipment, but biomedical engineers are responsible for developing and creating that equipment. They are professionals who often have advanced training in both health sciences and engineering. They are responsible for devising new and more efficient technologies for diagnosing patient conditions and treating patients. Most forms of radiologic technology currently used in health care facilities today were designed and produced by biomedical engineers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, biomedical engineers make a median salary of about $78,860 per year. They often have advanced degrees in engineering or bioengineering.
Professor of Radiologic Technology
Another non-medical job related to the field of radiologic technology is a professor of radiologic technology. These individuals are responsible for teaching the curriculum found within associate's degree, bachelor's degree and certificate programs in radiologic science and radiologic technology. They often have bachelor's or master's degrees themselves and are often registered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT). Professors and associate professors of radiologic technology must not only have a solid understanding of radiologic imaging procedures and equipment but must also be able to communicate their knowledge to college-aged students.
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