How is the prospect of finding an entry level job as a tech?

ahesch · Joined: 14 Feb 2009 Posts: 3

Can anyone tell me how the job prospects and market is out there right now for someone considering going into this field to become a radiologic technician? Are there jobs? There is a 1 1/2 waiting list to get into the program near me.

CTMRIGuy · Joined: 27 Oct 2008 Posts: 10

Right now, in the northeast, I'd say employment opportunities are limited for most Rad Techs with only a few Per Diem jobs around.

Of course, when you're done w/school in 3 1/2 years, things may be very different.

Are you willing to travel/move? If so, that may be a good thing.
Do you NEED a full time job w/benefits? If not, then doing a couple Per Diem jobs might work out very well for you.

Check out the ASRT and Advance websites as they usually have nationwide job listings. You should also keep an eye on the websites of your local employers (ie. hospitals, outpatient centers, etc.)

Good luck and don't give up! Rolling Eyes

ROXXY · Joined: 21 Feb 2009 Posts: 6

As a xray tech I am finding that the job market is not good. But 3 years ago it was great. You have to see whats available where you live.

I suggest that you go to hospital websites and check the jobs. From this list you can also determine what jobs that are in demand. Good luck.

954heat · Joined: 29 Sep 2007 Posts: 90 Location: south florida

here in south florida the job market is pretty bad...if not awful. im still a student myself about 2/3 through school but many people i know that recently graduated cant find jobs. honestly at times i get pretty down about it...i mean i love the field but i still need to be able to get a job one day but im just tryin to focus on school and cross that bridge when i get to it.

ROXXY · Joined: 21 Feb 2009 Posts: 6

hjhogle · Posted: Thu Feb 26, 2009 5:59 pm Post subject:

Are you talking about a certified Medical Laboratory Technologist? Or about a Lab Technician?

In order to be a Laboratory Technologist, you need "bachelor’s degree with a major in medical technology or in one of the life sciences; clinical laboratory technicians generally need either an associate degree or a certificate" (Info from the US Govt Bureau of Labor and Statistics).

If you mean a technician, let me assure you that (at an average of $32,000/year) they do not make the same kind of money as Radiographers (whose mean is $40,000-$57,000/year).

Where did you find the salary data to compare? You might check out the Bureau of Labor and Statistics here http://www.bls.gov

hjh, RT

ROXXY · Joined: 21 Feb 2009 Posts: 6

Job Description
You are right a Medical Technologist does need a Bachelors degree. I did check Salary.com and the job starts in Florida at 47,000 to 66,000 per year. In the same area that I checked an Xray tech makes less at 39,000 to 55,000. The reason I suggested this career choice is because its a job thats in demand at this time. As a X-ray tech I know that our field is pretty saturated and jobs are few.
Here is a brief description of a Medical tech.

Medical Technologist (ASCP)
Performs diagnostic testing following standardized procedures on patient samples, which aids physicians in the diagnosis and/or monitoring of various disease states. Resolves problems and interprets results as to accuracy, acceptability, and critical limits. Requires a bachelor's degree and must be a certified medical technologist. Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. A limited degree of creativity and latitude is required. Typically reports to a manager or supervisor.

Alternate Job Titles: Medical Technologist (ASCP)