RTRadiology Technician
RT
Career

Radiology Technician

By the numbers
Typical pay
$80,110 / yr
Education to start
Associate's degree
Future demand
+4.3% by 2034
People in this job
230K
Figures shown for ·closest of 2 O*NET occupations
The work
A day, hour by hour
06:45
Shift start & QC

Calibrate machines and run quality checks before the first patient arrives.

07:15
Patient prep

Explain the X-ray procedure to a nervous patient; shield them, position them.

08:00
Imaging run

Back-to-back scans — X-rays, a CT, one MRI — steady rhythm all morning.

10:30
Image review call

Chest X-ray looks borderline; retake it rather than send a blurry read.

11:15
MRI safety check

Patient's screening form flags a possible implant — stop, verify before entering the room.

12:30
Charting & records

Log every scan into the digital record; one dose adjustment needs a note.

13:15
Difficult transfer

Help lift a post-op patient onto the table; reposition twice for a clean image.

14:15
Urgent flag

Spot something unexpected on a scan — call the radiologist immediately, don't wait.

15:00
Handoff

Brief the incoming tech on pending orders, equipment quirks, and one open case.

Things you do
  • Operate X-ray, MRI, and CT machines to image the body's insides.
  • Position patients precisely so scans come out clear and usable.
  • Explain what's about to happen so nervous patients feel at ease.
  • Shield patients and yourself from unnecessary radiation exposure.
  • Check images on screen to make sure they're sharp enough for doctors.
Decisions you’ll make
  • Is this image clear enough for the radiologist to read, or do I need to retake it?
  • Does this patient's condition mean I should adjust the radiation dose right now?
  • Is this patient too anxious or in too much pain to hold still — do I stop and help them first?
  • Should I flag what I'm seeing in this image to the radiologist immediately, or follow normal workflow?
  • Is this patient safe to be in the MRI room, or did I miss something on their screening form?
Education Pathways · how you get there
84 in 100 went the college route · 16 in 100 found another way in None, typically
Education mapped from O*NET:
If you like this, also look at