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Radiologic Technologist

Run the imaging equipment that lets doctors see inside a patient.

What it pays in the U.S.

Take x-rays and CAT scans or administer nonradioactive materials into patient's bloodstream for diagnostic or research purposes. Includes radiologic technologists and technicians who specialize in other scanning modalities.

Median pay (national)$80,110about $38.52 an hour
Typical range$55,980 – $118,660lowest to highest tenth of earners
Usual way inAssociate's degree

Wage figures are 2025 survey data for United States, shown nationally because no state figure was reported. They describe what people in this job earn now, not what any one person will be offered.

Demand in United States

Employment is projected to change 4% between 2024 and 2034. About 12,900 openings are projected each year.

What the work actually is

  • Coordinate work with clerical personnel or other technologists and technicians.
  • Complete quality control activities, monitor equipment operation, and report malfunctioning equipment to supervisor.
  • Explain procedures and observe patients to ensure safety and comfort during scan.
  • Record, process, and maintain patient data or treatment records and prepare reports.
  • Operate mobile x-ray equipment in operating room, emergency room, or at patient's bedside.
  • Perform supervisory duties, such as developing departmental operating budget, coordinating purchases of supplies or equipment, or preparing work schedules.

Read the full Occupational Outlook Handbook entry from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Licensing, by state

Licensing is set by each state, so there is no national answer. Choose a state above to see which licenses it requires for this career, or look one up with the CareerOneStop License Finder.

Certifications employers recognize

These are national certifications, issued by industry bodies rather than a state. Most are optional, but they are how you prove skill to an employer.

Apprenticeships, by state

Registered apprenticeships pay you while you train. Each state runs its own registration office, which is where to start when you want to find an open program.

Choose a state above to see the offices that register apprenticeships there.

Search open programs directly at apprenticeship.gov.

Now find the schools.

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