Radiologic Technologist Jobs in the United States

Radiologic Technologist Jobs Overview

Radiologic technologist jobs are a well-paid entry-level healthcare career option in which you perform diagnostic imaging examinations on patients. Employment for radiologic and MRI technologists is expected to grow slightly faster than most other occupations, with an average of about 16,600 openings each year over the next decade.

Most jobs for radiologic technologists are full-time, often in hospitals. Duties typically include the following:

• light maintenance of imaging equipment
• using radiation safety measures and protection devices to ensure patient and staff safety
• preparing patients for procedures
• operating computer equipment and software to scan images
• keeping detailed records of patient procedures and results

Salaries for Radiologic Technologist Jobs

The average radiologic technologist salary ranges between $19.99 and $46.2 per hour ($41,579 to $96,096 per year). Factors influencing your wage include your experience level, the type of organization you work for, and your location.

For instance, radiologic technologist jobs pay the most in the following industries:

• scientific research and development services: $88,690 per year
• outpatient care centers: $81,530 per year
• professional and commercial equipment and supplies merchant wholesalers: $79,890 per year
• management of companies and enterprises: $79,000 per year

You’ll also bring home the heaviest paycheck in these states:

• California: $99,680 per year
• Hawaii: $88,440 per year
• Massachusetts: $85,800 per year
• Oregon: $84,540 per year
• Nevada: $84,330 per year

Find out how much your area pays radiologic technologists and compare the salaries for similar jobs. Visit Monster’s Salary Tool, add your job title and any location across the country, and click “Find Salary” to load the data for free.

How to Find the Best Radiologic Technologist Jobs

There are many radiologic technologist jobs in the market right now. How do you know which one is right for you? Here’s some helpful advice for navigating the job search:

Determine What You Want

Consider which work environment best fits your preferences and ambitions and reflect on your strengths as well. For example, Hospitals offer fast-paced, diverse work where you may be happy if you thrive in a dynamic setting.

Physicians’ offices provide a more intimate and patient-focused experience where you can use your interpersonal skills. Conversely, laboratories may appeal to you if you’re interested in research and are analytically minded.

Filter Job Openings

When analyzing job openings, prioritize detailed descriptions over vague listings. Look for roles that explicitly outline responsibilities, expectations, and growth opportunities. For instance, a job posting that specifies the utilization of innovative imagining technology or offers ongoing professional development is a green flag.

Screen Companies

Researching potential employers is equally important. Explore an organization’s reputation, work culture and commitment to technological advancements in the radiologic field. Seek reviews from current or former employees as well. This diligent research will allow you to apply only to roles that can help you fulfill your goals and maintain job satisfaction.

How to Apply to Radiologic Technologist Jobs

Once you identify suitable radiologic technologist roles, it’s time to prepare your resume and cover letter to apply. Here’s how:

Update Your Resume for Radiologic Technologist Jobs

To impress recruiters and convince them to call you back, you need a resume for a radiography professional that speaks volumes. Start with a compelling professional summary painting a vivid picture of your dedication to precision and patient well-being. Emphasize your hands-on experience in the dynamic world of medical imaging.

Ensure your resume navigates any automated screening processes by using keywords found in the job listing, such as:

• digital radiography
• diagnostic imaging
• imaging techniques like X-ray, CT, or MRI
• fluoroscopy
• time management
• patient-centric care
• attention to detail
• interpersonal skills
• communication
• collaboration
• problem-solving

Then, increase your resume impact by infusing metrics that showcase your achievements. For instance, you can quantify your contributions with:

• number of daily diagnostic procedures
• accuracy rates
• patient satisfaction scores
• image quality assessments

How nice would it be if you could outsource writing your resume? Well, you can! Reach out to Monster’s Resume Writing Services. We’ll craft a resume that highlights your skills and experiences and targets the radiologic technologist job you want.

Cover Letter Tips

A cover letter is your secret weapon to securing an interview for a radiologic technologist position. It allows you to introduce yourself in a more personal way than in your resume.

Not sure where to start? Greet the recruiter by name, wherever possible. Follow with a robust introduction. Mention your years in the industry, and which skills and technological proficiencies you have. Your aim is to show why you're an indispensable asset to any organization.

Refer to the job opening and incorporate specifics in your cover letter, such as the type of machinery they use or the medical approach they follow. Anything that shows that you and the organization share the same values is beneficial to your application. Finally, wrap up why you’re the candidate they need and express your desire to meet for an interview.

Resume? Done! Cover letter? Ready! Now, upload them on your Monster profile to find your dream job in no time. You’ll have plenty of openings to apply for in only a couple of clicks. Plus, you can skip the hours of browsing by simply activating customized job alerts.

How to Follow Up with an Employer

Do you want to increase your chances of selection after applying for a radiologic technologist role? If it’s been more than a week since you submitted your resume, follow up to prove your interest. Maintain a formal but friendly tone in an email.

Here is a blueprint you can follow:

• Begin by expressing appreciation for the opportunity to apply and enthusiasm for the position.
• Briefly mention your background and top skills that make you a great fit.
• Politely inquire about the status of your application and express your continued interest in contributing to the team. For instance, you might write: “I am still very excited about the opportunity to bring my expertise in XY to Company ABC. Could you please provide an update on the hiring process?”.

This approach proves that you’re eager but still gives the recruiters time to get back to you on their own terms.

Interviewing Tips for Radiologic Technologist Jobs

Ready to ace the interview for a radiologic technologist position? Let’s get you prepped and polished. You need to be ready to answer any interview question. Some of the most common ones include:

• Tell me about yourself.
• Why are you interested in our organization?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Specific questions for your profession could be:

• Why did you pick radiology?
• How do you handle high-stress situations?
• How do you ensure the proper functioning and maintenance of radiologic equipment?

Situational and behavioral questions are also common. Use the STAR method to tackle questions like:

• Describe a challenging situation you had with a coworker.
• Tell me about a time you made a mistake at work.
• Can you share a situation where you had to quickly adapt to a change in procedure or technology?

What to Do When You Get an Offer

When you get an offer for a radiologic technologist job, it’s crucial to respond promptly. Express gratitude even if you end up declining the offer later.

In the same communication, politely inquire about when they need your decision. You can write something like:

• “I would like to request some time to thoroughly evaluate the offer. Could you please provide a deadline for when you require my official response?”

Then, carefully review the proposed contract. Consider the overall compensation package and check the salary, benefits like health insurance or retirement plans, work hours and any additional perks. Does everything meet the industry standards? If you have questions, reach out and ask.

Finally, don’t forget to negotiate if necessary. Remain polite and professional and provide clear reasons why you believe you deserve better terms.

Radiologic Technologist Career Paths

Curious about which careers could be down the line for you after a range of radiologic technologist jobs? Here are a few to consider:

• MRI technologist. In this role, you’d specialize in using magnetic resonance imaging to create detailed images of internal body structures. You’ll have to gain a deep understanding of MRI technology, excellent patient communication skills and the ability to operate complex machinery.
• Radiation therapist. Ready to play a crucial role in treating cancer patients by administering radiation therapy? The job requires a compassionate approach, attention to detail, and expertise in using radiation equipment safely and effectively.
• PACS administrator. Another great career option is the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) administrator. You’d manage the digital storage and retrieval of medical images. You’ll need technical proficiency, of course. Plus, problem-solving, and the ability to optimize workflow within a healthcare setting.
• Clinical instructor. Transition into education and become a clinical instructor. You'll train the next generation of radiologic technologists. Build strong communication skills and patience. And let your passion for imparting knowledge in a classroom or clinical setting emerge.

Similar Occupations

Interested in more healthcare technology jobs? Check out the following options:

• medical technologist jobs
• radiology jobs
• ultrasound technician jobs