Radiologic technicians, also known as X-ray technicians, produce radiographs of parts of the human body for use in diagnosing medical conditions. X-ray technicians prepare patients for the procedure and operate the X-ray equipment. They also are responsible for keeping patient records and maintaining X-ray equipment.
Salary and Benefits
An entry-level X-ray technician, with less than one year experience, can expect to earn anywhere from $11.73 to $17.72 per hour, based on November 2010 PayScale data. Bonuses and profit-sharing can comprise up to 10 percent of the total pay. Health benefits are quite common in this field with only 25 percent of all X-ray technicians having no coverage. Medical is the most common health benefit, followed closely by dental and, to a lesser extent, vision.
Experience
Though the starting salary is modest, X-ray technicians can expect to see an orderly increase in earnings as their career progresses. With one to four years' experience, X-ray technicians should see a rise of approximately 10 percent in their earnings, anywhere from $14.83 to $20.63, based on PayScale November 2010 and data. X-ray technicians should experience another 10 percent increase in income at five to nine years' experience, ranging between $17.84 and $23.60. After 10 to 19 years of experience, X-ray technicians should anticipate earning between $19.92 and $26.61. Earnings reach their peak with 20 years or more of experience with salaries between $19.15 and $29.63 an hour.
Top Degrees
Individuals evaluating degree choices should consider obtaining an associate of applied science degree. X-ray technicians with this degree can earn between 10 percent and 20 percent more than those with an associate of science. According to PayScale November 2010 data, X-ray technicians with an associate of applied science earn between $18.17 and $25.56, while those with an associate of science earn between $14.81 and $23.40.
Hospital Setting
Entry-level X-ray technicians looking for employment should consider opportunities in a hospital or surgery center setting. X-ray technicians working in these environments earn between $17.28 and $25.55, according to PayScale November 2010 data. Their counterparts working in a physician's office or private practice earn significantly less, between $15.27 and $21.29.
Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster-than-average employment growth for X-ray technicians. Employment is expected to increase by approximately 17 percent between 2008 and 2018. An aging population will result in increased demand for diagnostic imaging. However, individuals who can employ multiple diagnostic imaging procedures will have the best employment opportunities. X-ray technicians should upgrade their skills to increase both their income and employment prospects.
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