Technicians operate specialized equipment to perform ultrasound exams.
Ultrasound technicians use special equipment to take diagnostic images of a patient's body. Diagnostic images are produced by high-frequency sound waves that are sent to the specified body parts. Technicians explain the imaging procedure to patients, perform diagnostic exams and analyze the results for physicians. The earnings of ultrasound technicians vary by employer. In Missouri, technicians earned salaries less than the national average.
Statewide Earnings
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, ultrasound technicians in Missouri earned average salaries of $61,140 as of May 2009. In major metropolitan areas such as Jefferson City, St. Louis and Kansas City, ultrasound technicians earned average salaries ranging from $59,800 to $63,620 annually.
National Earnings
Nationally, ultrasound technicians earned average salaries of $63,010, according to the BLS, which is just above the earnings of Missouri technicians. Ultrasound technicians who earned the most made more than $85,950, while those who earned the least made less than $43,990. Average earnings of technicians vary by geographic location, employer type and industry. For example, nearly 60 percent of all ultrasound technicians are employed in general medical and surgical hospitals, but some of the highest paid technicians are employed by private diagnostic laboratories. The average earnings of technicians in private facilities are $67,890 per the BLS.
Training
Ultrasound technicians may receive training from a variety of schools and programs. Training is available in hospitals and vocational schools as well as colleges and universities. Most employers prefer to hire technicians who have completed formal training from an institution accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Candidates may seek a certificate or diploma, or receive an associate's or bachelor's degree in medical sonography. Missouri College in St. Louis offers an ultrasound technician training program. In the program, students take coursework in anatomy and physiology, physics, instrumentation and medical ethics.
Employment
The BLS projects employment of ultrasound technicians to increase faster than average through 2018. Advancements in ultrasound technology allows imaging personnel to scan more nontraditional areas of the body. This has led to more procedures being performed and the demand for more technicians. Job opportunities are favorable for ultrasound technicians who obtain competency in more than one specialty. Technicians who receive certification through associations such as the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography may take on supervisory responsibilities or advance to managerial or administrative positions.
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