X-Ray Technician Salary

X-ray technicians are responsible for operating radiology machines under a doctor’s orders for a patient. Depending on the illness, a doctor may decide to order x-rays of particular parts of the body, and the technician is tasked with capturing these areas using the x-ray machine.

X-ray technicians use their in-depth knowledge and training to provide patients with the correct, and safe, amounts of radiation exposure to ensure the safety of everyone involved. They know where and how to place “patient shields,” which are gowns or covers which protect the majority of the body which is not being radio-graphed. It is important to be able to keep patients calm and well-informed of what is happening, as well as help patients feel at ease if they are apprehensive about these procedures. These technicians are also responsible for maintaining x-ray equipment and cleaning the parts of the machines which come into close contact with patients.

Most x-ray technicians have either an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in radiology, and it is also recommended to attend a course which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Upon graduation and before becoming officially licensed, one must also pass an examination for the geographical location in which they will work. (Copyright 2017 PayScale.com)

X-Ray Technician Tasks

• Use beam-restrictive devices and patient-shielding techniques to minimize radiation exposure to patient and staff.
• Process exposed radiographs using film processors or computer generated methods.
• Perform basic general x-rays of the chest, hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, knee, foot or ankle under supervision of physician.
• Explain process and position patient for x-ray; adjusting restriction devices; moving and adjusting equipment to set exposure factors.
• Determine patients' x-ray needs by reading instructions from physician.

For those looking to make money, X-Ray Technicians in New York enjoy an exceptional pay rate, 34 percent above the national average. X-Ray Technicians can also look forward to large paychecks in cities like Chicago (+29 percent), San Antonio (+9 percent), San Diego (+8 percent), and Houston (+6 percent). Falling short of the national average by 20 percent, the area with the worst salaries is Orlando. Dallas and Atlanta are a couple other places where companies are known to pay below the median — salaries are 16 percent lower and 15 percent lower, respectively.