Radiography can be used to view bone, muscles and other tissue.
A radiographer is also commonly referred to as a radiologic technologist or radiography technician. Radiographers conduct diagnostic imaging examinations like X-rays, mammograms, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging, or MRIs. A radiographer typically works in a hospital or doctor's office, but some may also work in laboratories, veterinary clinics, or for government agencies. The salary for a radiographer can vary significantly and may depend on several factors including level of expertise, location and work schedule.
Entry Level
According to x-raytechnicianschools.org, an entry level radiographer technician may expect to receive a lower starting salary than in individual who is more experienced in the field. If you are just starting as a radiographer, or if you are working underneath a more senior radiographer, your salary may be around $32,000 per year as of 2008 data.
Average
Typically, an average radiographer has been working in the field for a minimum of two years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average salary of radiographers was approximately $52,219 as of May 2008. According to BLS.gov, the middle 50 percent earned between $42,710 and $63,010, while only the lowest 10 percent of radiographers earned less than $35,100.
Specialists
You could expect to earn more than an average radiographer if you become a specialist in your field of radiography. Many radiographers are trained to work in a hospital or doctor's office, where they see dozens of radiography patients on a daily or weekly basis. A specialist is highly trained in a particular field and may be better skilled at producing and interpreting sonogram, mammography, or MRI images. Highly skilled radiographers are often sought after for diagnostic consultations by their colleagues and peers. A specialist may command a higher salary upwards of $68,000 or more if her skills are in great demand.
Hourly
Your earnings as a radiographer may vary greatly depending on the number of hours you work. If you work a full-time schedule of at least 40 hours a week, you will typically earn a fixed salary, but part-time radiography professionals are often paid on an hourly basis. Payscale.com reports that the average hourly rate for radiographers as of 2011 is between $17.52 and $23.46, with overtime boosting the hourly rate to as much as $34.94 per hour. Additionally, you may expect to earn a travel fee or other type of bonus if you travel for a consultation or fill in for another radiographer.
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