Magnetic resonance imaging is one technology used by radiology technologists.
Radiology technologists prepare patients for imaging procedures such as x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, mammography and computed tomography. Technologists perform more complex procedures than an x-ray technician under the direction of a physician. According to PayScale, the average salary for a radiology technologist is between $37,242 and $52,803 as of December 2010.
Location
Radiology technologist salaries vary according to the state in which the professional practices. For example, technologists working in California earn an average salary between $45,000 and $76,291 while those in Georgia earn salaries between $32,960 and $43,541, according to PayScale. Salary differences between states may be due to cost of living differences. According to My Salary, the cost of living is 30.3 percent higher in Los Angeles than in Atlanta.
Experience
Experienced technologists earn higher salaries than those just starting out in the field. Radiology technologists with 20 years or more in the business earn salaries between $41,916 and $67,075. Workers with less than a year on the job earn an average salary between $26,451 and $42,729. Technologists may advance in the field and specialize in a specific area such as mammography or computer tomography scanning.
Type of Employer
Radiology technicians can work for a variety of employers such as a hospital, private practice or a government employer. According to PayScale, technologists working for a hospital earn salaries up to $53,660 and those working for a private practice can earn up to $48,605, as of December 2010.
Benefits
In addition to an annual salary, employers offer radiology technologists benefits to retain skilled workers in the position. Some benefits offered to technologists include 401k plans, health insurance, paid holidays, paid sick time and vacation time. Employers may also offer technologists education assistance to help the professional advance in the field. Benefits add to the value of a position with an employer and should be weighed along with the annual salary when considering a position.
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