Radiologic Technologists and Technicians
Healthcare Practitioners and Technical
X-ray and CT work starts with reading the physician's request, then positioning the patient and setting exposure time, distance, and angle for the body area that needs to be seen. Radiation protection devices keep patients and staff within safety rules, and the procedure is explained so people know what to expect. Images are reviewed after they are developed or generated; unusable ones mean the setup is corrected. Contrast material or other drugs may be prepared under a radiologist's direction, and abnormal reactions are reported. The work suits people who like careful positioning, following imaging protocols, and keeping patients informed.
Typical education: Associate’s Degree (2-year)
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$80'110
Median Wage Market Position
$80'110
What you might do
- Position x-ray or CT equipment for each exam
- Place the patient to show the requested area
- Set exposure time and distance per the order
- Check finished images to see if they are usable
- Shield patients and staff from unnecessary radiation
- Prepare contrast material under a radiologist's direction
Skills that matter
- Patient positioning for the requested view
- Adjusting exposure time and distance
- Reviewing images for diagnostic quality
- Watching patients for unsafe reactions
- Radiation protection for patients and staff
- Reading exam requests from physicians
AI & the future of this role
Much of the job involves positioning patients, running imaging equipment, and ensuring safe exams under clinical supervision. AI might speed image checks and protocol suggestions, but demand for skilled operators who manage people and machines in person is likely to remain solid.
Does Radiologic Technologists and Technicians fit your values?
Take the free LostInCareer assessment to see personalized matches based on your core values—not just a personality label.
Related careers
Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details