Position Title: X-Ray Technologist (XR)
Optional Designation: Lead X-Ray Technologist
Department: Radiology
Supervisor's Title: Radiology Manager
Position Summary
The X-Ray Technologist is responsible for performing a full range of general diagnostic radiographic examinations and fluoroscopic imaging in accordance with provider orders, departmental protocols, regulatory requirements, and professional standards. The technologist often works independently with minimal supervision and is expected to demonstrate sound judgment, strong technical competency, and effective communication skills. This position supports inpatient, outpatient, emergency department, and procedural imaging needs within a rural critical access hospital environment.
Principal Functions and Responsibilities
- Performs general diagnostic radiographic examinations in accordance with provider orders and established departmental protocols.
- Provides intraoperative and procedural fluoroscopic imaging support as required.
- Operates, monitors, and maintains X-ray and fluoroscopy equipment in compliance with quality assurance, safety, and regulatory standards.
- Prepares patients for imaging procedures, including verifying patient identity, explaining the procedure, and ensuring patient comfort and safety.
- Demonstrates a thorough understanding of radiation safety practices and adheres to ALARA principles at all times.
- Accurately documents procedures, patient information, and image data within PACS, RIS, and EHR systems.
- Responds to urgent and emergent imaging requests and participates in after-hours, weekend, holiday, and on-call coverage as required.
- Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work environment; promptly reports equipment malfunctions, safety concerns, or workflow issues to leadership.
- Collaborates effectively with radiologists (including teleradiology services), providers, nurses, and ancillary staff to ensure efficient patient care and workflow.
- Monitors supply levels and basic equipment status and communicates needs to appropriate supervisory personnel.
Required Experience and Skills
- Graduation from an accredited radiologic technology program with emphasis in general radiography.
- Demonstrated competency in routine diagnostic X-ray procedures, including chest, abdomen, spine, and extremity imaging.
- Basic patient care skills, including positioning, safe patient transfers, mobility assistance, and comfort measures.
- Hands-on experience operating diagnostic X-ray and fluoroscopy equipment, including basic troubleshooting.
- Strong knowledge of radiation safety, patient shielding, and dose optimization techniques.
- Knowledge of human anatomy and physiology relevant to diagnostic radiography.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills for interacting with patients, providers, and healthcare staff.
- Detail-oriented approach to image quality, positioning, labeling, and documentation.
- Basic proficiency with imaging and hospital information systems, including PACS, RIS, and EHR.
Preferred Experience and Skills
- Two (2) years of experience in diagnostic radiography in a clinical or hospital setting.
- Experience working in a rural, critical access, or low-volume facility requiring independent decision-making.
- Demonstrated competency in trauma, emergency, and non-emergent imaging workflows.
- Experience with intraoperative fluoroscopy and C-arm imaging.
- Familiarity with X-ray and fluoroscopy equipment from multiple manufacturers (Carestream, Shimadzu, Quantum, Toshiba, GE-OEC C-arm, etc.).
- Basic knowledge of sterile technique and sterile field maintenance.
- Experience or cross-training in additional imaging modalities (e.g., MRI or ultrasound) is advantageous but not required.
Lead X-Ray Technologist - Additional Responsibilities (When Designated)
In addition to the responsibilities outlined above, the Lead X-Ray Technologist serves as a clinical and operational resource for the radiography team and supports the Radiology Manager with day-to-day departmental coordination. Lead responsibilities may include:
- Providing clinical guidance, mentorship, and support to X-ray technologists, students, and PRN staff.
- Assisting with workflow coordination, daily staffing coverage, and prioritization of imaging studies.
- Serving as a liaison between X-ray staff and radiology leadership to communicate operational needs, concerns, and opportunities for improvement.
- Supporting onboarding, orientation, and competency validation for new X-ray technologists.
- Promoting adherence to departmental policies, quality standards, radiation safety practices, and regulatory requirements.
- Assisting with quality improvement initiatives, image quality reviews, and process optimization efforts.
- Identifying equipment, supply, or workflow issues and collaborating with leadership on solutions.
The Lead X-Ray Technologist role does not typically include direct supervisory authority but may include delegated responsibilities as assigned by the Radiology Manager.
Physical Requirements
Extensive walking and standing. Ability to lift, position, push, and/or transfer patients. Requires reaching, bending, hand-eye coordination, clear vision, motor skills, dexterity, and the ability to work independently while maintaining strong interpersonal communication skills.
Certification, Registration, or Licensure
- ARRT Certification in Radiography (R) required.
- Current BLS (Basic Life Support) certification from the American Heart Association or equivalent required prior to patient care.
Work Environment
Working Conditions: Healthcare environment with potential exposure to infectious diseases, bodily fluids, and patient conditions.
Physical Demands: Standing, walking, bending, stooping, sitting, reaching, speaking, and visual acuity required.