I live close to Kokomo, IN and am considering going to IUK to get an AS degree in Radiography. Have heard from several sources that there is a nation-wide shortage of X-ray techs. Any T-men or vixens have experience in this area? What are the pros & cons (salary, hours, job availability, etc.) Any and all feedback is appreciated. -LW
All I know is you’ll make a hell of a lot of cash.
Very good career choice. Here’s what I know…My mother has been the office manager of a radiology office (outpatients only) for the past 30+ years. I’ve been around the office for most of my life, along with working there for 2 1/2 years for helping with putting up film, log sheets, etc. From my knowledge, it depends on your experience and your location. This clinic is in an average size town and the techs get paid somewhere between $12-$18 per hour. Also, it’s Mon-Fri, 8-5, no weekends, no on-call, paid holidays, paid vacation, great insurance and retirement plan, and some opportunities to get in your extra small meals.
As for me, I am currently getting ready ready to begin my second semester for getting my AS in Sonography. The way things look, it seems that it is the wave of the future since there is no radiation. Also, the pay can be much greater. When I graduate, my instructors, along with the physicians at my mother’s office, say don’t even expect less than $20 and hour; and that’s to start on! Also, I know of some sonographers that make anywhere between $35 to $50 an hour! No, that’s not a typo. This again can also depend on experience, location, on-call, etc.
So, you might want to take a look at sonography too. And trust me, it’s MUCH more than just looking at babies.
Hope that helps!
Thanks for the input so far. Travis, I will definitely look into sonography. Good luck with you schooling.
My ex-girlfriend just graduated from x-ray school. She makes $14 an hour in Baton Rouge, LA plus plenty of overtime from being on call during weekends.
I’m one of the docs who interprets the x-rays. Yes there is a nationwide x-ray tech shortage. Specialized techs (in any of the areas within radiology i.e. ultrasound, CT, MRI or angiography) do make more money. Keep in mind that you will be dealing with patients all day. They can be sick, afraid, uncooperative or even drunk and abusive. Not trying to scare you off just so you know the reality going in.