Radiologic technology is experiencing rapid employment growth.
Radiological technicians perform medical diagnostic imaging procedures, including X-rays, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Their correct job title is radiologic technicians or technologists. Most of these techs work in hospitals, while others find employment in clinics, diagnostic imaging centers and doctors' offices. The average salary of radiological technicians in Georgia varies a great deal by city.
Credentials
Most states require licensing of radiologic technicians, but Georgia does not. Many employers prefer or require their radiologic technicians to have an associate degree in radiologic technology. Graduates from accredited schools are eligible to take a national examination for professional certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Again, this is not a legal requirement in Georgia, but professional certification can boost job opportunities.
Salary Range
The median nationwide salary for a radiologic technician or technologist as of January 2011 is about $48,300 per year, according to Salary.com. Radiologic technicians in the middle 50 percent of the earnings scale were earning $44,200 to $52,900 per year. The bottom 10 percent had salaries below $40,600, and the top 10 percent more than $57,000 per year.
Comparisons
Radiologic technicians in Georgia earn different average salaries depending on the city in which they work. Those in Valdosta, for instance, were making about $42,000 per year in January 2011, while radiologic techs in Atlanta had incomes over $48,000. Radiologic technicians in Albany had an average salary of $43,800, in Augusta $44,900 and in Savannah $45,000. The middle 50 percent earnings range in these regions was $38,500 to $53,000. The bottom 10 percent had salaries below $35,300, and the top 10 percent more than $57,000.
Outlook
Employment in this field will likely experience rapid growth through at least 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Individuals skilled not only in X-ray procedures but also in CT or MRI have the best opportunities. For networking and other benefits, consider joining the Georgia Society of Radiologic Technologists Inc.
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