Radiologic technologists, or rad techs, operate diagnostic imaging equipment to produce X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, among other types of medical images. In addition to working in hospitals and clinics, many rad techs work in traveling positions, taking temporary assignments in various locations across the country. But how much can you expect to earn as a traveling rad tech? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is a Radiologic Technologist?
A radiologic technologist, also known as a radiographer, is a healthcare professional who uses imaging equipment to help diagnose and treat medical conditions. They work closely with radiologists, physicians who interpret medical images, to provide high-quality images that help to guide patient care.
Rad techs are responsible for positioning patients correctly, selecting the appropriate imaging technique, operating the equipment, and ensuring that the images are of sufficient quality for diagnostic purposes.
What Do Radiologic Technologists Earn?
The average salary for a radiologic technologist in the United States is $65,620 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, this figure can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including experience, education, and geographic location.
Traveling rad techs may earn more than their stationary counterparts due to the increased demand for their services. According to the job site Indeed, traveling rad techs can earn anywhere from $35 to $50 per hour, depending on their level of experience and the location of their assignment.
What Are the Benefits of Being a Traveling Radiologic Technologist?
Traveling rad techs enjoy a number of benefits, including the ability to work in different locations and gain experience in various healthcare settings. They also typically receive higher pay rates and may have access to housing and travel allowances.
In addition, traveling rad techs may have more control over their work schedules and the types of assignments they take on. This can provide greater flexibility and work-life balance than a traditional 9-to-5 job.
How Do You Become a Radiologic Technologist?
To become a radiologic technologist, you typically need to complete an accredited educational program in radiography. These programs can be found at community colleges, technical schools, and universities, and generally take 1-2 years to complete.
After completing your education, you will need to pass a certification exam in order to become licensed to practice as a radiologic technologist. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is the primary certifying organization for rad techs in the United States.
FAQ
Question | Answer |
What is the average salary for a radiologic technologist? | The average salary for a rad tech is $65,620 per year. |
How much can a traveling radiologic technologist earn? | Traveling rad techs can earn anywhere from $35 to $50 per hour. |
What are the benefits of being a traveling rad tech? | Traveling rad techs enjoy higher pay rates, the ability to work in different locations, and greater work schedule flexibility. |
What education is required to become a radiologic technologist? | You typically need to complete an accredited program in radiography and pass a certification exam to become licensed as a rad tech. |
Conclusion
Traveling radiologic technologists can earn higher salaries than their stationary counterparts while enjoying a range of benefits, including the ability to work in different locations and greater scheduling flexibility. To become a rad tech, you will need to complete an accredited educational program and pass a certification exam.