Miami has the greatest concentration of radiologists in the state.
Did you ever envy Superman's ability to see through things? Becoming a radiologist might help you live the dream -- add hang gliding if you simply must fly, too. Radiologists -- usually called radiologic technicians or technologists -- prepare patients for all sorts of imaging procedures, including mammography, magnetic resonance imaging and X-rays. Training usually consists of completing a certification program, which lasts about two years, or obtaining an associate or bachelor's degree. Sorry, no cryptonite allowed.
Metropolitan Florida
The metropolitan areas of Florida are the highest-paying for radiologists, according to a 2009 survey conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, or BLS. Radiologists in the areas of Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Naples, Tampa and West Palms Beach earn an average of $25 to $27 an hour. These figures work out to an annual average in the mid- to upper-$50,000s. The only exceptions are Orlando and Daytona Beach, where the averages fall to $21 an hour.
Rural and Non-metropolitan Florida
The non-metropolitan areas of Florida -- specifically the Northeast, Northwest and Southern areas -- pay slightly less than the city areas, according to the BLS. In these areas, a radiologist can expect to earn between $22 and $24 an hour, or in the high $40,000s to low $50,000s a year.
National Average
As of the 2008 occupational survey conducted by the BLS, the national average pay for radiologists is right on par with Florida's average pay, which is about $52,000 a year. Radiologists in the top 90 percentile -- meaning the best-paid radiologists in the state -- earn about $70,000 a year, or $34 to $35 an hour.
Promotions and Advancement
Specializing in one particular field is a viable way to advance as a radiologist. Radiologists can be promoted to chief radiologist, supervisor or director. Director positions, however, require a master's degree in business or health administration. And no, flashing your Superman fan club membership card won't work -- he was never exactly paid for his efforts, remember?
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