Radiologic Technologist

What does a Radiologic Technologist (Rad Tech/RT) do?

The Radiological Technologist (Rad Tech) is a healthcare professional who administers X-rays to produce images that allow medical staff to see inside the body. These images are then interpreted by Radiologists (doctors trained to understand the images) for diagnosis and treatment of injury, abnormalities, and disease. The Rad Tech prepares patients for their diagnostic exams, positions them, and operates radiologic equipment. Career advancement for the Rad Tech can be done through specialized training in different areas of Radiology, such as Computed Tomography (CT), Interventional Radiology (IR), or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

Discover what it’s like to be a Rad Tech by reading a UR spotlight on rad techs and viewing a short video.

Note: This video has been provided by the U.S. Department of Labor careeronestop website and the actual duties of this role at the University of Rochester may vary.

Minimum education and experience

Completion of formal training in an approved Radiologic Technology program, followed by certification through the American Registry Examination (ARRT), and obtaining New York State licensure.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities

In addition to strong clinical skills, the Rad Tech needs to demonstrate compassion, critical thinking, effective communication, attention to detail, and technical savviness. If you possess these skills, you could be successful in this career field.

Days/hours

Schedule will be based on work location. The Rad Tech can be found on all shifts: days, evenings, nights, and weekends. Holidays/call may be required.

Position locations

• Hospital – emergency, inpatient, operating room
• Orthopedic Offices
• Outpatient Imaging facilities
• Urgent Care

Work environment

• Radiation Safety: Radiologic technologists work with radiation-producing equipment, so they follow strict safety protocols, including wearing protective gear like lead aprons and using shielding devices.
• Standing and Movement: The job often requires standing for long periods, moving equipment, and assisting patients in positioning for imaging.
• Patient Care: Radiologic technologists work closely with patients, including those who may be in pain, anxious, or unable to move easily. Strong communication and empathy are essential.
• Team-based and independent work: They collaborate with radiologists, physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure accurate imaging and patient care. While part of a team, technologists often work independently when performing imaging procedures.

Pay range

Use the code URC 210 to find the pay range in the General and Clinical University pay ranges section of the University’s Compensation page.

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job’s compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal benchmarking considerations.

Possible career pathways

Examples of pathways within this job family at the University of Rochester:

• Radiologic Tech I > Radiologic Tech II > Radiologic Tech III > Rad Tech Lead > Supervisor, Rad Tech
• Radiologic Tech > CT/IR/MRI (Specialized) Technologist

URCP Education Partner

• Monroe Community College