X-ray technicians perform scans on patients' bodies.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for X-ray techs is expected to grow faster than average. If you are looking for a career in the medical field, but you have no interest in being a doctor or a nurse, the job prospects for this career may appeal to you.
Job Description
X-ray technicians, also known as radiologic technologists, operate imaging machinery to perform diagnostic exams. Some examples include performing dental X-rays, chest scans, or basic X-rays. Technicians may also have a specialty such as cardiology, computed tomography or mammography.
Work Environment
X-ray technicians work in doctors' offices, dental offices and hospitals. This job requires being on your feet for long periods of time operating the machinery. Working with this sort of machinery does expose you to radiation, which could have negative effects on your health; however, technicians wear protective gear. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, technicians wear badges that state how much radiation is in the area, and they also keep track of their lifetime exposure to the radiation.
Education Required
Many educational programs offer training in X-ray technology; programs can be found at community colleges, trade schools, and universities. Whether you choose to enroll in a certificate, associate degree, or bachelor's degree program will depend on your state's licensing requirements and your overall goals. Technicians may choose to pursue certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists to increase their job prospects or meet state licensing requirements. To be eligible, you must be of good moral character, you must graduate from an approved program, and you must pass an exam.
Salary and Wages
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage for X-ray technologists was $52,210 in May 2008 with the highest 10 percent earning more than $74,000 and the lowest 10 percent earning less than $35,000. PayScale.com puts the average hourly rate between $15.40 and $23.68 per hour as of February 2011.
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