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The Curious Bag
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X-ray technicians are medical professionals who administer diagnostic testing using radioactive energy. The images produced by technicians play an important role in detecting injuries, illnesses and disease.
Features
X-ray technologists escort patients to the testing area, put film into the machine, operate the controls to make the images and then develop the images. Technicians also perform routine maintenance and cleaning on the x-ray equipment.
Locations
X-ray technicians work in hospitals, urgent care facilities, physicians' offices and outpatient care centers.
Time Frame
Hospitals often perform X-rays 24 hours per day, requiring some technicians to work evening, overnight and weekend hours. Technicians who work in other facilities typically work daylight hours, though occasional evenings or weekends are possible.
Education
X-ray technicians must obtain post-secondary education in order to work in the field. Options for education include medical training or vocational-technical school diplomas and associate or bachelor's degrees.
Licensure
The federal government requires states to mandate licensure for X-ray technicians. The requirements vary from state to state, but often include a written examination.
Compensation
As of December 2009, X-ray technicians average an annual salary of $46,000, according to Indeed.com.
Source:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Radiologic Technologists or Technicians
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