• Radiologic technicians may specialize in performing MRIs or CAT scans, in addition to performing general X-rays."Big MRI" is Copyrighted by Flickr user: Muffet (liz west) under the Creative Commons Attribution license.
  
  

Job Descriptions

• Radiologic technicians use special machinery to create X-ray images (radiographs) of different parts of the body, in order to help physicians pin-point specific injuries, or health conditions. Before performing the X-ray, the technician explains the procedure to the patient. After this, the technician makes sure the patient is not wearing any metal items that may interfere with the imagery. Next, he will position, or explain to the patient how to position her body in order to obtain the correct image of the body part being X-rayed. The radiologic technician is responsible for prepping the machinery, loading in the films for the X-ray as well as taking them out and developing them.
  
  

Work Requirements

• Some technicians make their own schedules or work on call only, but on average, radiologic technicians work about 40 hours per week. Physical fitness is important, since you will spend the majority of your shift on foot, or maneuvering disabled patients. The machinery used may be stationary in an office, or you may have to wheel it bedside of the patient. The risks for being exposed to high radiation levels are minimal since you are required to wear protective gear that is lead based, and you will be given a monitor to wear that reads the radiation levels.
  
  

Job Qualifications

• In order to become a radiologic technician, you must obtain a special qualification. Training in this qualification usually lasts between one to four years depending on whether you go for a certificate, associate degree, or bachelor degree, as stated by Careeroverview.com. Associate degrees are the most common. If you are a nurse, MRI technician or experienced radiographer, you may take a one-year certification to enter this field.
  
  

Employment Opportunities

• Hospitals are always in the forefront of employing the majority of the radiologic technicians. Some may work in outpatient clinics, and others will be placed in the emergency department, working mainly with trauma victims. You may also apply to work within a private practice, or chiropractic clinic. If you gain experience performing MRIs and CT scans, you will have a significant edge over your counterparts, who do not possess these skills.
  
  

Salary Expectations

• In 2002, according to careeroverview.com, radiologic technologists, and technicians earned an average of $38,970; half made in the range of $46,510 and $32,370. The ones who earned the highest pay made $55,430 and up and the lowest paid were paid below $27,190.