Basic X-Ray Jobs
- The preparation to work as an x-ray technician can range from 1 to 4 years either in a college program or training on site at a hospital. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 40 states have licensing requirements. Even in states where certification is not required, most employers prefer individuals who have completed official training. To be certified, you must have attended a certified program and pass a written test. In the 35 states that rely on the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists for certification, you must also complete an additional 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain your license. These classes are offered at various colleges and universities around the country.
- You can advance in the field either by attaining more specializations or becoming a supervisor. Some common specialties include CT scanning and angiography, which uses x-rays to find blood clots. Other x-ray technicians may expand their skills to include radiology. These specializations require additional education that includes both classroom and real-life experience. To become a supervisor, you usually need a more diversified education, such as an MBA or master's in health administration.
- X-ray technicians work with patients from the time they enter the hospital or office through taking the x-rays. They must prep the patient by making sure all jewelry or any other items that may interfere with the the x-ray is removed. The technician also pus lead vests and protection on the patient to minimize extra radiation. The x-ray tech should also adjust the settings to narrow the x-ray beam.
- Over 60 percent of x-ray technicians work in hospitals because of the high cost of x-ray equipment. Other places of employment include physicians' offices and diagnostic centers. These jobs are expected to grow as the price of x-ray equipment falls, making it more affordable for smaller practices. The best job opportunities are for people who have multiple specialties. The average pay was over $48,000 in 2006 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The highest salaries were for people working in diagnostic labs and the lowest was for those in physicians offices.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects basic x-ray jobs to grow by about 15 percent between 2006 and 2016, which is higher than the average for all occupations because of the increasing demand for x-rays for an aging population.
