How To Become A Radiology Tech? – Skills, Qualifications, Education, And More

16 November 2024

How to become a radiology tech? You can start your career by getting an associate degree in radiology.

However, if you get an advanced degree, you can qualify for leadership roles. Then, you must consider specializing in a radiology area. Moreover, you must earn a certification from ARRT if you want to get a state license.

In this article, you will learn about how to become a radiology tech and pursue a career in the field. This article also guides you through the factors you must consider as you prepare to become a radiology tech.

Finally, you will get a step-by-step guide on pursuing a career as a radiology tech. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.

How to Become a Radiology Tech? – A General Overview

Generally, a radiology tech performs important diagnostic imaging procedures. Also, they perform scans to get a better idea of a patient’s health condition. This helps radiologists and physicians better. If this job seems interesting to you, you must consider pursuing a career as a radiology tech.

However, you must understand the different requirements for becoming a radiology tech. This can help you successfully land a job at a reputed place.

A radiology tech is a healthcare professional who helps in finding out health issues with patients. If you become a radiology tech, you have to operate X-rays and other medical imaging tech to find out problems.

Moreover, you will have other duties as well. For instance, you might need to explain radiology procedures to patients and handle complex imaging machines. Moreover, you also need to ensure the compliance of safety protocols.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Survey, the average radiology tech salary is $73,410 (2023 data). Moreover, you will have better-earning potential with some radiology tech specializations like MRI scanning, nuclear medicine, radiation therapists, etc.

Radiology Tech Specializations

Once you pursue a career as a radiology tech, you must have one or more specializations.

Some specializations include:

Medical Imaging like X-rays, CT Scans, MRI, and mammography

Nuclear Medicine

To become a radiologist technician, you must complete a high school diploma and then pursue a radiology program. Then, after you choose your specialization, you must get a radiographer certification. After that, you can prepare your resume and then apply for jobs.

How To Become A Radiology Tech? – Factors To Consider

If you want a service in the healthcare industry and also want plenty of contact with patients, you will enjoy a career as a radiology tech. In fact, to start working, you just need an associate degree in radiology or a similar field.

However, if you want early success in this career, you must have an eye for detail. Also, having good math and technical skills will help you grow a lot. Apart from that, you need to show a compassionate outlook.

On the other hand, this is actually a physically demanding job. Apart from that, this field is constantly evolving. Hence, if you have more stamina than others and you can adapt to different conditions, you can succeed in this job.

The following are the major factors you must consider if you want to know how to become a radiology tech:

Radiology Tech Job Description

As a radiographer, you might practice radiography or specialize in different medical imaging techniques. Actually, you have to work with doctors and radiologists to produce images of patients’s organs.

The following are some of the major tasks you will need to do as a radiology tech:

Prepare patients for radiology tests. Also, you must explain the procedure to them and make them remove metal objects from their body.

Perform tests like X-ray exams, mammograms, MRI scans, etc.

Sometimes, you must review patient histories, doctor reports, charts, etc.

Position patients and align them with machines. Additionally, you must calibrate machines to accurately produce images.

Moreover, you must follow safety protocols and shielding devices. This way, you can save yourself, patients, and other coworkers from harmful radiation.

You must check the clarity of images and explain them to doctors in your team.

Since you know the correct procedure to use equipment, you need to sterilize and store imaging equipment accordingly.

You must control radiology tech equipment in such a way as to produce accurate images with enough density and detail.

Stay updated about radiation equipment and its safety measures. Also, you must learn how to use protection devices.

You must have basic information about state and federal regulations and the policies of medical institutions. This way, you can ensure compliance with those regulations and policies.

Radiology Technician (Xray Tech) Specializations

Here are the major specializations of a radiology tech out of which you need to choose yours:

X-rays

Computed tomography (CT)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Sonography

Bone densitometry

Nuclear medicine

Vascular interventional radiography

Mammography

Cardiac-interventional radiography

Essential Qualifications And Education

To become a radiology tech, you can take different educational approaches. This is because there are several pathways to explore.

The following are some of the most popular options to consider:

🎓LXMO Certificates

You need almost a year to complete LXMO certificates. Basically, with the help of these certifications, you can quickly become a radiology tech. However, there are some drawbacks to consider.

For instance, if you have something less than an associate degree, you cannot earn an ARRT certificate. As a result, you will not qualify for a radiology tech license in some states.

🎓Associate Degrees

Generally, associate programs are for two years. Once you complete them, you can get a good exposure to radiology technology. Apart from that, these programs also include hands-on clinical experience and general education classes.

🎓Practitioner Certificates

A degree course takes a lot of time and effort. Hence, radiology tech expands their qualification by earning certificates with specializations. However, these certificates are for practicing individuals and not starters in the field.

🎓Bachelor’s Degree

A four-year degree in radiology technology will give you a deep dive into medical imaging. Also, you can develop a big picture in the radiology field. Also, you will gain various communication and analytical skills. Hence, you will be ready for managerial and supervisory roles.

🎓Master’s Degree

If you want to pursue further studies in the field of radiology technology, a Master’s Degree is the way forward. This will prepare you to pursue extensive knowledge in the subject. Also, you can be prepared for leadership and advanced practice. Moreover, you will have a chance to become a registered radiologist assistant.

How To Become A Radiology Tech? – Steps To Follow

To become a radiology tech, follow the steps below:

1. Pass a Diploma or an Equivalent Program

Here, you just need to earn a high school diploma or the GED test. Moreover, you will benefit from taking classes in the PCMB (Physics, Chemistry, Math, and Biology). Once you have a solid background in these subjects, you will have a better understanding of radiology and its technologies.

Moreover, you can consider volunteering at a healthcare center. This will help you understand the work environment.

2. Complete an Accredited Radiology Program

Many medical facilities and employers look for radiology tech with formal education and certification. Hence, you must pursue a hospital-based or college-based program with JRCERT accreditation.

Hence, you must consider getting a two-year associate degree in radiology tech. This will ensure you an entry-level position. However, for supervisory and administrative roles, you might need a Bachelor’s or a Master’s Degree.

After getting your specialization, you must complete your clinical training at a major hospital or a diagnostic center. This will help you to get placements after you complete your training.

3. Earn A Certification

To start working, you have to show a state board license along with an ARRT certification. However, to get this certification, you must have a Bachelor’s degree. Also, you must meet the ethical requirements of this certification.

Moreover, to maintain your certification, you must complete various continuing education courses in radiology and radiography. Furthermore, you can also choose advanced training as you complete the former.

4. Prepare Your Resume And Apply For Jobs

With the help of an effective resume, you can improve your chances of securing an interview. However, make sure you get tips on your resume from a professional. Additionally, ensure your resume is concise and has a professional summary of why you are the right person for the job.

Apart from that, your resume must also contain brief details about your skills, experience, and educational background. Moreover, you must also ensure that your resume is tailored to your job requirements.

Land Your Radiology Tech Job Now

You now know how to become a radiology tech. You have seen that these professionals perform multiple medical imaging procedures, CT scans, and X-rays.

However, as a radiology tech, you will be working with medical teams consisting of doctors, registered nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Hence, consider working on your communication skills.

Do you have more suggestions on how to become a radiology tech? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.

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Soumava Goswami

A passionate writer and an avid reader, Soumava is academically inclined and loves writing on topics requiring deep research. Having 3+ years of experience, Soumava also loves writing blogs in other domains, including digital marketing, business, technology, travel, and sports.

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How To Write A 2-Week Notice Letter? – Step-by-Step Method

A 2 week notice letter is a resignation notice that you offer your employer to leave your job professionally. Basically, most companies allow their employees to serve a two-week notice period before they leave their jobs. In some cases, it might extend to four weeks. Within this time, you offer your employer to find a suitable replacement. In this article, you will learn about the importance of a 2 week notice letter. Apart from that, you will also learn how to write and submit this letter to your employer. Moreover, this article will guide you on what to include in that letter. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article. What Is A 2 Week Notice Letter? Before you leave your job, you must offer your employer advance notice that you are about to leave. Generally, this notice can be issued for either two weeks or a month. You can also ask for future references once you maintain professionalism and serve the notice period. If you leave your job, you must understand the necessity of offering a resignation letter to your employer. Hence, you must write a courteous and professional letter that leaves a good impression about you. Moreover, once you offer your 2 week notice letter to your employer, you are giving time to your employer to find a suitable replacement. Meanwhile, your employer can also consider training another staff member who will take up your responsibilities. In most cases, this process is a professional courtesy. However, in other cases, you must offer the 2 week notice letter if you want to resign from the position formally. For instance, serving a two-week notice period in many employment terms is a compulsion. This ensures that the resignation process is formal. On the other hand, some employers might allow you to use your vacation days as your notice period. Then, you can leave immediately. Apart from that, if you serve your two-week notice, you get the time to complete your work obligations. This way, you also offer your employer the chance to hire a replacement for your position. Factors To Consider Before You Write A 2 Week Notice Letter The following are the major factors you must consider before you write a 2 week notice letter to your employer: 1. Manage Your Resignation Professionally If you offer immediate resignation, you must include valid reasons like health problems, relocation, etc. In this case, make sure to manage this resignation professionally. This will help you preserve future relations and get job references. Hence, you must understand how to quit a job professionally and gracefully. 2. Review And Seek Guidance Sometimes, you might not have the time to serve your notice period. Hence, in such cases, before you submit your resignation notice, consult with your HR, review your contract, seek guidance, or inform your employer directly. This will help you better understand what you need to do in the given situation. 3. Ensure Professionalism As you type a resignation letter, use professionalism in your language. Also, if you are offering a resignation in person, state your reasons respectfully. Moreover, you must also take steps to address your concerns, express gratitude, and ensure accuracy. Write A 2 Week Notice Letter: Step-by-Step Method The following are the steps you must follow if you want to write a good 2 week notice letter to your employer: 📜Address Ensure the letter contains the date, company name, and your manager’s name. Here, the person you are addressing can change. Generally, in most cases, this will be your supervisor. 📜 Resignation Reasons Try to make your resignation short and compact. However, make sure to mention valid reasons as well. For instance, in the opening lines of your letter, state you are informing your employer that you will resign in two weeks. Moreover, make sure to include and specifically mention when you will work your last with the current organization. 📜 Express Gratitude In the middle portions of your letter, thank your employer for the opportunities. Also, offer a thanks for all the experiences. Here, you also need to add the reason for your departure. Here, consider explaining those reasons in brief. 📜 Mention the Next Steps to Your Employer When you close your letter, inform your employer that you are willing to perform the necessary duties and comply with the organization’s conventions. Also, offer help to assist in the transition process. 📜 End Your Letter Professionally You must conclude your 2 weeks notice letter formally. For instance, you can use words like “Sincerely,” and sign your name accordingly. Apart from that, do not forget to mention your current position and your employee number. What to Do When You Cannot Submit a 2 Week Notice Letter? You might face a situation where you must resign immediately without serving your notice period. Hence, in such situations, you must consider following the process so that it does not cause a lot of inconvenience or conflict. This is because maintaining cordial relationships with your employer is important. This will help you get better references in the future. For example, you might need a reference letter from your employer to rejoin the company. The following are the factors you must consider if you want to leave without submitting a 2 week notice letter: 1. Read Your Work Terms/Contract According to Indeed.com, Many employers include the statutory minimum notice period they expect from resigning employees in their work contracts. In normal circumstances, it is a professional courtesy to inform the employer of your intention to leave one to three months in advance and give them the notice in writing. Hence, you must read your work contract properly. This way, you can find essential information about your notice period. Also, you can find out whether there are some clauses to leave immediately or not. Moreover, read the clauses that talk about working with industry competitors. Furthermore, in some cases, certain employers will require you to wait for some time before you start working with a competitor. Hence, you must know about these in detail. 2. Talk to Your HR Manager Your HR manager knows a lot about the work policies and terms. Hence, the best option is to ask them what you can do if you cannot serve the notice period for your employer. This way, the HR manager will guide you and offer you a way out. Also, clarify to your HR manager that the matter is confidential and that you want to inform your employer yourself. Hence, HR will guide you in such situations with the best options if you want to leave immediately. Related: Utah PEO: Your Partner In HR Excellence 3. Talk To Your Employer One of the ways to approach your employer is to talk directly. Just go to them by requesting a meeting and inform them of your situation. Here, explain your reasons in detail and offer reasons why you need to leave this job immediately. In this case, keep an honest and professional approach. Basically, you must make them understand that your only option is to resign from the job immediately in this circumstance. Also, be willing to complete your pending tasks before you leave. 4. Get Advice from Your New Employer You must also discuss the situation with your new employer by telling them the repercussions of not serving the notice period. For instance, if they want you to join their organization immediately, ask them to write you a letter stating this. Then, you can forward this letter to your current employer. As a result, this will act as a better situation where you can resign from your job without a big issue. Create Your 2 Week Notice Letter Now If you want to create a 2 week notice letter, follow the instructions in the above section. However, if you cannot serve the notice period, make sure to talk to your employer and HR in person. This way, you can resolve the situation faster. Do you have more suggestions about how to write a 2 week notice letter? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below. Read Also: Top 5 Benefits Employees And Employers Get from Workers Compensation In Demand Jobs 2024: 11 Roles That Are Skyrocketing In The Job Market Career Development Plan: What Is It And How To Create One?

Let’s Make a Deal: Learn How to Become a Stockbroker

Many people don't have the time or energy to manage their own stock portfolios. Individuals and institutions alike outsource this job to a stockbroker. How to become a stockbroker will not be a matter of question if you follow the write-up in an effective manner. If you're interested in becoming a stockbroker, know that the competition is fierce. Many people leaving school are looking to become stockbrokers. Do you have what it takes to make your way in this career? Being a stockbroker isn't easy. You'll face long hours and need strong dedication. If you think you can do it, give it a shot. Continue reading below to find out how to become a stockbroker. Slay the competition and join the ranks. How To Become A Stockbroker? The world of finance is one filled with glamourized notions of wealth and excitement. If you're successful, this could be a reality. You should first think hard about this decision. This career isn't for everyone. Introverts and extroverts alike can find themselves with a successful finance career. You'll face challenges, as the process of becoming a stockbroker is intense and demanding. First, consider your skill set. A stockbroker spends many hours of the workday on the phone. You'll need to be able to communicate well with clients and other traders. Research is essential. You'll need an in-depth understanding of the stock market. You should be able to relay this information to your clients in a digestible fashion. Let's talk about education. How Required Education: Often, stockbrokers don't need to fulfill any specific education requirements. That doesn't mean, however, that you will get away without a college education. The competition is tight. A bachelor's degree is almost always necessary if you want to stand out. A master's degree would be better. This will show your prospective employers that you've acquired additional skills and abilities. You won't need to have a specific major, but a degree in finance or business will help. Think about degrees in accounting, business, economics, or finance. Search Internships: Many brokerage firms and investments banks offer internship programs. This will give you an opportunity to work in a finance environment. You'll have the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the profession. You'll have a higher chance of getting hired once you graduate. Think of an internship as a sort of extended interview. Licensing: To work as a stockbroker, you'll need to obtain the necessary licensing. To obtain the licensing, you'll need to pass two exams. These are the Series 7 and Series 63 exams. These can be pricey but you can get a personal, business, or student loan for this purpose from NowLoan.co.uk or similar brokers. The Series 7 exam covers the trading of different types of securities. Series 63 focuses largely on state laws and regulations. You'll need to find a sponsor before you can sit for the exams. You'll probably need to get hired by a brokerage firm or investment bank before you take the exams. They should be registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Committee (FINRA) or another similar authority. Some firms and banks may require additional certifications. You should ask about this during the hiring process. Certain licenses and certifications will increase your chances and earning potential. Other Considerations: Becoming a stockbroker is no easy task. Potential hires are subject to harsh scrutiny. Different ways you need to consider how to become a stockbroker. Background Checks: Brokerage firms and investment banks will run a background check to examine your criminal and financial history. If you have a history of serious legal trouble, you'll be thrown out of the hiring pool. If you have proven to be financially irresponsible, this will damage your chances. This means you shouldn't have any recent tax liens, repossessions, or bankruptcies. Remember, you're interested in a finance career. Your job will be to give advice to clients about managing their investment portfolio. If you can't handle your own finances, how can you be trusted to handle another's? Finding a Firm: Not all firms and investment banks are the same. Some are larger or smaller. Some work internationally. Find one that fits your desires and personality. New stockbrokers often find large firms to be intimidating. You'll be surrounded by people who know what they're doing. Smaller firms are good for those who want a more communal feel. These environments tend to be a bit warmer. They also tend to offer higher commission rates. The downside to a smaller firm is the size. The name is less-known. It may be more difficult to find potential clients. Some firms allow you to become a sub-broker. Sub-brokers act on behalf of a brokerage firm but are not a member of one. Kotak Securities Franchise is one such company. To do this, you must meet most of the same requirements as a regular stockbroker. Working on Commission: As a stockbroker, you'll get paid on commission. The client pays a commission on the trades you execute. It's up to you to build a clientele and gain confidence. The commission from each trade will get split between you and the firm. Your firm may offer you a higher or lower commission rate based on the number of trades you execute. If you execute more trades, you'll likely get a larger share of the commission. The firm has a vested interest in generating revenue. Many firms increase their share of the commission if they generate more revenue. This acts as an incentive and a means of generating more business. Dedication: Many new stockbrokers back out of the game. You'll need to demonstrate a strong work ethic and drive. The most successful stockbrokers are those who put in the hours and dedicate their soul to the profession. That's why you should be absolutely sure you want to become a stockbroker before you make the choice. Getting Started In Finance: The world of finance is somewhat enigmatic to the average citizen. If you're thinking about a finance career, you're probably already aware of some of the quirks. This guide is meant to give you an introduction to the basics of how to become a stockbroker. Take the time to think about the requirements and decide if this is a career for you. To find out more, check out our other finance-related topics. Read Also: Is Polyester Stretchy? – Its Materials & Properties [Detailed Explanation] Top 6 Different Types Of Scarves Names And Its Benefits How to Thicken Chili – Tried and Tested

Navigating The Surgeon Jobs Search Journey: Tips For Success

Searching for a new job can be stressful. Once individuals know they wish to leave their current position and find a new job, they can reduce this stress by taking basic steps. Landing this new job may take four to six months, so the earlier a person begins, the better off they will be. Tips For Navigating The Surgeon Job Search Journey Are you thinking of leaving your current job? Then these tips might come in handy in your new job search journey. Preparing for the Search Before launching a surgeon job search, consider what is needed in the new job. Create a list of priorities. Some doctors want to work in a teaching hospital to train future generations. Other medical professionals might be more interested in research. Factors to consider when creating a priorities list include salary, location, and work-life balance. While no job will check every box unless the job seeker is extremely lucky, knowing what is essential will help narrow the choices. Be Persistent Many medical practices don't have HR teams making the hiring decisions. They rely on doctors to handle this task, and these doctors also treat patients. Surgeons must recognize this and understand the hiring process often takes longer as those responsible for choosing who to employ have other duties. Follow up regularly so the organization knows the interest is still there. Please don't give up until the organization states it has no plans to hire you. Network Every person needs to network regardless of how long they have been in an industry. Begin building this network in medical school and expand on it over the years. Ask this network for help when looking for a new job as a surgeon. People love to help one another and will share job openings. They may even offer to provide references and help with this search, but they can only do so if the job seeker asks. Cold Calling Most people dread cold calling. However, it never hurts to do so when there is a particular facility a person wishes to work at. It also never hurts to cold call when moving to a new city or state. Let the hiring manager know of this move and see if there are any open positions. While they may not need a surgeon, they could know of another facility that does and share the information. Practice Considerations Know which type of hospital or setting is best for your long-term career goals. Where are these practices commonly located? Will a job change require the move to a new state? If so, apply early for medical licensure if this step must be taken. The licensing process can take several weeks, so this step should never be put off. Update Paperwork Always have an updated resume available. The perfect job may open up when a person isn't searching. When this happens, they scramble to update the resume and gather other paperwork. Review references and contact information regularly to ensure they are accurate and willing to serve as a referral. Optimize Your CV You are aware that recruiters review several applications for surgeon jobs in a day. This job is tasking because choosing appropriate resumes for the job is crucial. After all, they have to fill important surgeon positions in their organization. They have to select the efficient surgeons for the job position. Therefore, recruiters follow some criteria when choosing the right CVs from the bunch of CVs. In this case, recruiters will include surgeon jobs’ experience, skill level, and accomplishment in their criteria. These criteria may vary according to jobs, but there is one thing that is common for all recruiters: skill level. They mostly look for your skill level to match the job position. So, be clear about what you have accomplished in your previous job position. Optimize your CV to fit all your previous accomplishments and skills to highlight your right fit for the job. This way, your CV gets picked, and you get a chance to interview face-to-face. Try adding to keep your CV error-free and easy to read. This will help recruiters scan your CV easily. The format of your CV should also be correct. Prepare For The Interview Don’t just stop after optimizing your CV because the goal is to get the right surgeon job from several surgeon jobs. If you do get a callback from the recruiter for an interview, then you have to crack it. You already know that preparing for an interview can be challenging since you don’t know what the employer will ask you. So start preparing for your interview based on your previous surgeon job interview experiences. Focus on failed interviews where you were unaware of any question related to your field. As a surgeon, you can read up on medical books related to your field of study. This will help you answer questions in your interview. If it's a virtual interview, try to look presentable even if you are interviewing from your home. This gives a good impression on your future employer. Along with speaking clearly in your off-screen interview, try practising also for on-screen interviews as well. Another thing you must keep in mind is to keep your room clean when doing a virtual interview. Since the space is visible to your interviewer, a cluttered room doesn’t give a good impression. Don’t Forget To Follow Up Interviewers take several interviews and then decide on the best candidate for their vacant position. When the recruiters are debating on who to pick for the surgeon jobs, your follow-up shows your interest in the job. Then, they can go back to your application to give it a think-over. This can be a turning point in getting you the surgeon job. So, after your interviews, always follow up with your recruiter about the job. This helps increase your chances of getting the job. You can send an email thanking the recruiter or interviewer for the interview opportunity. In this email, try incorporating the passion or hobbies that your interviewers shared with you during the interview. This shows your attention towards the conversation and your ingenuity. Conclusion A pleasant attitude goes a long way toward landing a dream job. Surgeons may receive several job offers and must determine which to accept. The priorities list is of great help. Review the list and see how each job offer aligns with the priorities. Talk with the hiring team if one job seems perfect in most ways but has a single sticking point. They may be willing to make accommodations. If not, there are other opportunities to explore. With time and effort, a surgeon can find their dream position and return to doing what they love: helping patients. Patient care should always be the focus, even when looking for a new job, and surgeons ensure it is. Additional Reading: Is Medical Specialities A Good Career Path? – 12 Best Jobs How to Get a Job as a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative? Seeking a Healthy Career: 10 Tempting Medical Careers to Check Out

How To Become A Radiology Tech? – Skills, Qualifications, Education, And More