Radiologic Technologists and Technicians
O*NET 29-2034.00 · SOC 29-2034
Radiologic Technologist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $80k a year with +5% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 13,000 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Position patients for imaging procedures
- →Operate X-ray and CT equipment
- →Ensure radiation safety protocols
- →Process and review diagnostic images
- →Maintain imaging equipment
Education & How to Get In
Most Radiologic Technologist positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Radiologic Technologist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Radiologic Technologist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Radiologic Technologist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Radiologic Technologists and Technicians is projected to grow 5% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·39% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·31% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Radiologic Technologist make?
The median Radiologic Technologist earns $80k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Radiologic Technologist jobs?
Our model puts Radiologic Technologist at 33 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 39% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 31% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Radiologic Technologist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 5% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 13,000 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Radiologic Technologist?
Most Radiologic Technologist roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Radiologic Technologist?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Radiologic Technologist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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