Radiological Technologist Career & Jobs: Training, Salary & Certification Requirements

If you’ve ever had a friend that fell off of their bike and broke their arm, or had their fingers shut in a car door, you know that taking x-rays are essential to be able to tell how badly the bones are broken and whether or not surgery is needed to correct the problem. The skin and muscles protect so much of the human skeleton, and without the aid of x-ray machines, it would be impossible for doctors to know what exactly was going on below the surface. Radiological technologists are responsible for evaluating the patient, making them calm and explaining the x-ray process, determining the exposure needed to get an accurate picture of the bones, and administering chemical treatments so that certain organs will be visible on the x-ray picture.

Salary Outlook

Average Annual Salary
$39,400
Salary Range
$30,300 - $48,200

Work Environment

Because they are required to work so closely with emergency physicians, specialists and surgeons, radiological technologists are most often employed at hospitals and outpatient surgical facilities. However, it is also possible to find employment at urgent care centers, nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities and in public health departments.

High School Preparation

Those individuals that think they might enjoy the responsibilities of a radiological technologist are encouraged to spend their high school career advancing their knowledge of human anatomy, chemistry and biology. Supporting courses for this line of work include computer skills, English, emergency medical technology, and physics. It can also be helpful for high school students to seek a volunteer position at a hospital or medical facility so that they can develop the proper skills for communicating with patients.

Requirements

After completing their high school education, those individuals that are interested in pursuing the career of a radiological technologist are required to enroll in an accredited associate’s degree program that focuses on radiology and radiological technology. When possible, it is also acceptable to enroll in an on the job training program at a hospital or private practices. This opportunity for on the job training is usually reserved for those that already have medical assisting experience.

Career Outlook

As the population in this country continues to age, and many of the baby boomers continue to experience the negative effects of their age on their health, it will become increasingly important to utilize the diagnostic effects of x-ray imaging to isolate health problems and devise a plan of treatment. The number of open positions for radiological technicians is expected to increase by at least twenty-five percent over the next decade.

Professional Organizations

American Society of Radiologic Technologists
15000 Central Ave. S.E.
Albuquerque, NM 87123
Phone: (800) 444-2778
www.asrt.org