X-Ray Technician Careers

X-ray technician careers are currently a great prospect. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a shortage of X-ray technicians, and employers are offering training incentives, increased salaries, and solid job opportunities in order to encourage people to consider the X-ray tech profession.

X-ray technicians work with physicians and medical professionals to assist in the diagnosis of disease by producing X-ray films of various parts of the body. They have to be skilled at preparing and positioning patients to get the best possible X-ray images. They also develop the films for use by the physician.

Career Prerequisites - X-Ray Technician

Entry-level X-ray technician careers typically require a one-year certificate, a two-year degree, or a bachelor's degree. Most X-ray technician courses are accredited by the Joint Review Committee in Radiologic Education.

Some states require X-ray technicians to be licensed, qualifying them for practice in their state. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists provides a more national credential. To register, candidates must complete an accredited program in radiology and pass a registry examination. Increasingly, registry has become a condition of employment for X-ray technicians.

Salary Forecast - X-Ray Technician

Many people in related medical professions retrain to become X-ray technicians, since the job prospects and pay are good in this field. X-ray technician salaries average around $39,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. What's more, salaries are likely to rise significantly in the next few years.

If you are looking for a job in the medical technician field, consider the many benefits of an X-ray technician career.