X-Ray Technician Jobs

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Explore X Ray Technician Jobs

Are you interested in discovering an in-demand niche in the healthcare sector? Does the incorporation of technology in medical science fascinate you? If so, a career as a radiologic technologist – and more specifically as an X-ray technician might be a good match for you. As an X-ray technician, you will have many duties, most of which involve working directly with patients receiving X-rays. Moreover, you will be performing diagnostic imaging examinations and will use advanced equipment to take pictures of patients that help medical professionals diagnose diseases or other conditions. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the X-ray technician jobs for aspirants in the future.

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What Skills Help X-Ray Technicians Find Jobs?

A diploma in X-ray technology or a graduate degree in Radiology can be the beginning of your career as an X-ray technician. Here are some of the popular X-Ray technician skills:

  1. Communication skills
  2. Analytical skills
  3. Attention to detail
  4. Mathematical reasoning
  5. Teamwork
  6. Verbal communication
  7. Time management
  8. Reliability
  9. Critical thinking
  10. Problem solving

A Career in X-Ray Technology

The healthcare field has constantly been expanding and advancing into the future. As the community finds better ways to detect health problems, the demand for X-ray technology has also risen. A diploma in X-ray technology or a graduate degree in Radiology can be the beginning of your career as an X-ray technician. Earning your diploma in X-ray technology is a base for other certifications, such as advanced radiography certifications and specialized BSc and health administration degrees. These additional qualifications are a vital component of health care service. Whether you’re a candidate for a certificate program or instead are looking for an associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree in radiologic technology, being an X-ray technician can bring you multiple choices of lucrative job opportunities. 

Credits: TED-Ed

Top X-Ray Technician Jobs

There are a wide array of career roles available for students after completing their X-ray technician courses. A career as an X-ray technician is quite a versatile one and promises job stability, a lucrative future, and good salary prospects. Let’s look at some of the most popular X-ray technician jobs in the industry that are in high demand, along with their average estimated salary.

Job ProfileJob DescriptionAverage Estimated Starting Salary in INR (Per Annum)
X-Ray TechnicianTechnologists manage efficiently and read and receive diagnostic reports using technical components and machines₹2,00,000 – ₹3,00,000
Assistant X-Ray TechnicianThe assistant X-ray technician can operate the X-ray or radiographic machine₹1,00,000 – ₹2,00,000
Consultant RadiologistAn instructor who will teach all the ideas and methods to other able candidates₹2,00,000 – ₹3,00,000
Radiologic technologists use diagnostic imaging equipment to help physicians identify illnesses and injuries. They may use X-ray equipment, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or mammography to perform X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or mammogramsAn instructor who will teach all the ideas and methods for other able candidates₹3,00,000 – ₹4,00,000
X-Ray Testing TechnicianX-ray testing technicians can handle all of these types of components and test options₹3,00,000 – ₹4,00,000
Radiology TechnicianA Radiology Technician works with a Radiologist to diagnose and treat patients using diagnostic imaging examinations like X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans. The Radiology Technician will prepare patients and equipment for radiology procedures, perform the tests, and maintain the equipment.₹4,00,000 – ₹5,00,000
Radiology AssistantThey help radiologists manage and assess patients by performing radiologic procedures. They need to follow detailed instructions from physicians, prepare patients for procedures, implement proper safety protocol and operate computerized equipment. They are also responsible for calibrating and maintaining medical radiologic equipment. ₹2,00,000 – ₹3,00,000
RadiologistsRadiologists are medical professionals that are specialists in the field of medical imaging. Radiologists work with medical imaging technology to diagnose and treat diseases and injuries₹18,00,000
They help radiologists manage and assess patients by performing radiologic procedures. They need to follow detailed instructions from physicians, prepare patients for procedures, implement proper safety protocols and operate computerized equipment. They are also responsible for calibrating and maintaining medical radiologic equipment. Radiologic technologists use diagnostic imaging equipment to help physicians identify illnesses and injuries. They may use X-ray equipment, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or mammography to perform X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or mammograms₹4,00,000 – ₹5,00,000
Radiology NurseCT Technologists take diagnostic images of patient’s internal structures using computerized tomography equipment. They ensure that patients are correctly positioned and closely monitored during CT scans.₹8,00,000 – ₹9,00,000
Ultrasound Technician/Diagnostic Medical SonographerAn ultrasound technician helps doctors and other health professionals diagnose patients’ ailments. He or she operates special equipment that uses high-frequency sound waves to record images of internal organs.₹5,00,000 -₹ 6,00,000
MRI TechnicianMRI technicians, also commonly referred to as MRI technologists, are professionals who operate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning machines. They use this technology to capture images of patients’ bodies for physicians to diagnose medical problems.₹3,00,000 – ₹4,00,000
C Tech/ CAT Scan Technologists/ CT Scan TechnologistsCT Technologists take diagnostic images of patients’ internal structures using computerized tomography equipment. They ensure that patients are correctly positioned and closely monitored during CT scans.₹3,00,000 – ₹ 4,00,000

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Credits: ClincyKidsRad

X-Ray Technician Jobs in Government Sector

Radiographers work in public and private healthcare and can be physically located in any setting where appropriate diagnostic equipment is located, most frequently in hospitals. The practice varies from country to country and can even vary between hospitals in the same region. The Indian Government also provides an array of promising X-ray technician jobs, including lucrative salary packages and several governmental perks. While working in governmental positions, there are many opportunities for aspirants to opt for research work. They learn other aspects of the radiology profession such as Clinical Management, Clinical Research, Radiation Protection, and Reporting Radiology, amongst many others. An X-ray technician’s salary in government hospitals ranges from ₹2,00,000 to ₹7,40,000, which is an element based on salaries for employees working in the government sector.

How to Become an X-Ray Technician?

The overall employment of X-ray technicians is projected to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 20,800 openings for radiologic, MRI technologists and other X-ray technician jobs are projected each year, on average, over the decade, especially after the post-COVID era. Many of these openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labour force, such as retiring. Here is a step-by-step guide for aspirants who want to become certified X-ray technicians in the future:

x-ray technician
Credits: Pinterest

Step 1: Do Your Research

If you are curious about the right job for you, the internet is a wonderful place to kickstart your journey. There are many resources online with helpful information on thousands of jobs, including salary, career outlook, work environment, education, job description, and more. Check out our AI Course Finder to search for the best courses and best-fit universities to study abroad in this field and our blogs to get through your research on your chosen career path. As you learn, think about your lifestyle and which values are most important to you, and then decide if you want to take the next steps.

Step 2: Examine your Skills and Interests

As you know, every job requires a unique and specific skill set. It’s always helpful to take inventory of what you’re interested in and what you are naturally good at before committing to a certain career, including working in radiology. Think about the following questions as you consider becoming an X-ray tech one day. 

  • Are you detail-oriented? 
  • Will you be able to successfully balance a fast-paced work environment in which you will communicate high-level information to both physicians and patients in sensitive situations? 
  • Are you compassionate and empathetic? 
  • Will you be able to put patients at ease during a stressful time while still capturing quality diagnostic images? 
  • Are you comfortable working with technology? 
  • Would you consider yourself a person with physical stamina, or the ability to work on your feet for long periods? 

All of these qualities and more are crucial for an X-ray tech to be successful in his or her work environment, so take some time to think about your personality and abilities before diving in.

Step 3: Get Educated

The most important step to becoming an X-ray tech is becoming properly educated about the different types of X-ray technician jobs in the industry. The great news is that X-ray technicians and radiologic technologists, in general, will only need to spend a relatively short amount of time in the classroom as most positions require a diploma. An X-ray technician program can be completed in as few as 1-2 years. In your X-ray technician course, you’ll learn the ins and outs of direct patient care, understand how to safely operate sophisticated diagnostic imaging equipment, and develop a thorough understanding of patient anatomy. Additionally, you’ll spend time working in clinical settings where you can apply your knowledge to scenarios outside of the classroom.

Step 4: Get Certified (and Licensed, If Necessary)

Though requirements vary from state to state, there is a chance you’ll need to become licensed with your state to work as a radiologic technologist. But beyond simple licensure, you may also want to look into earning a certification from a professional organization as a way to stand out and show your dedication to the field. To do this, you’ll need to graduate from an approved radiologic technologist program and pass an exam to verify your expertise in the field.

While a job search isn’t always a walk in the park, if you’ve completed a diploma in X-ray technician course and earned a certification, you’re well on your way. The good news is that X-ray techs are needed in a wide variety of healthcare settings, so you should have options. Don’t forget to polish up your resume and practise your interviewing skills. With a little persistence, you’ll be well on your way to a career in diagnostic imaging.

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Common Qualifications for X-Ray Technicians

From working with government organisations to aiding a private lab, the job of an X-ray technician comes with loads of responsibilities. Hence, it is important to embody a few important traits before you undertake the position of an X-ray technician. 

  • All aspiring technicians must have cleared the 12th standard in the science stream from a recognised board of education.
  • Candidates should be securing a minimum aggregate of 45% or more in subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.
  • Admission is either held based on a University-level examination or merit basis. Students must follow the specified application process as per the guidelines of the chosen college.

Do I Need Certification to Work as an X-Ray Technician?

Yes, you need to have certifications to work as an X-Ray technician. X-Ray technician course is a subset of the radiology department and is mostly taken independently as a Diploma course after the completion of 10+2 standards. The program covers both clinical and administrative skills along with other hands-on training. Undertaking a diploma in X-ray technology will equip you with the knowledge and skills in performing laboratory tests, general radiology procedures, and electrocardiograms. The admission process for this course is conducted based on the candidates’ performance in their high school examinations. Few institutes also hold entrance exams for admitting students. 

FAQs

What are the popular employment areas for X-Ray technicians?

Here are some of the employment opportunities after a Diploma in X-Ray technology in India.
1. Government and Private Hospitals
2. Government and Private Medical Laboratories
3. X-ray Laboratories
4. Outpatient Care Centres

What are some of the courses for X-Ray technicians?

Here are some of the popular courses:
1. B.Sc in Radiology
2. B.Sc Radiography Imaging Techniques
3. B.Sc Medical Lab Technology
4. B.Sc in Radiotherapy
5. M.Sc in Radiology

What is the career scope of an X-Ray technician?

 A graduate who chooses to pursue a professional career can expect to earn a salary of ₹90,000 – ₹ 1,50,000 per annum, initially. With better experience and on-field skills, a diploma in X-ray technology can earn anywhere between ₹1,60,000 – ₹2,60,00 per annum

You may want to explore additional education for career advancement in other medical science branches. Leverage Edu is a one-stop solution to all your higher education queries. Connect to our experts on 1800572000 for a 30-minute free counselling session and get in-depth information about our multiple services related to study abroad programs.

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