Radiological Technicians & Technologists
Description OES Code: 32919
Take X-rays and CAT scans or administer nonradioactive materials into patient's blood stream for diagnostic purposes. Include technologists who specialize in other modalities such as computed tomography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance. Include workers whose primary duties are to demonstrate portions of the human body on X-ray film or fluoroscopic screen.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $16.91
25th Percentile $18.55
50th Percentile $21.63
75th Percentile $26.01

Wages, San Joaquin County
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $16.82
25th Percentile $18.36
50th Percentile $21.19
75th Percentile $24.30

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
The regular workweek is 40 hours, five days a week. Unlike many hospital workers, Radiation Therapists usually work day shift only. Most employers provide medical and dental insurance in addition to vacation, sick leave, life insurance and retirement plans.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 12,800
Projected Employment 2008 17,400
Growth Rate 1998-2008 35.9%
Openings due to Separations 2,100

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 250
Projected Employment 2006 280
Percent Change 1999-2006 12%
Separations 1999-2006 30

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Radiation Therapists generally work in large, hospital-based or independent cancer treatment centers, located in metropolitan areas. Considerable standing, walking, lifting, and moving of patients are required on the job. Because of the presence of radiation-producing equipment and radioactive materials, Radiation Therapists wear special badges to monitor radiation exposure while in the radiation therapy area. Adherence to safety programs and procedures, as well as built-in safety devices, keep radiation exposure within established safety levels.

Advancement
Experienced, well-qualified therapists can become supervisors or, possibly, managers of the radiation therapy department. Therapists who earn teaching credentials may qualify as training instructors, clinical coordinators, or directors. Those who have strong mathematical aptitude and interest, and who complete additional training, may become Dosimetrists.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Students whose performance is superior during the clinical portion of their training may be hired after graduation by the hospital in which they trained. School instructors may refer qualified graduates to other jobs.

Additional information regarding openings can be obtained from the American Society of Radiologic Technologists webpage. However, job seekers need not wait for openings to be advertised; they should also file applications directly with employers for future consideration.

For a list of current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Radiation Therapists must be licensed by the State Department of Health Services. Requirements include the completion of a State-approved radiation therapy training program and the passage of a written examination. Successful candidates receive the title, "Certified Radiologic Technologist'' (CRT). Those who also pass the certification exam given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART) may use the designation, "Registered Radiation Therapy Technologist.''

Radiation therapy training programs are conducted by community colleges, universities, and hospitals throughout California. Most programs last two years. However, persons with prior training in related fields, such as diagnostic radiological technology or nursing, may be able to complete the program in one year. In all programs, classroom instruction is supplemented by clinical experience in one or more hospitals. Most schools have many more applicants than they can accept. Prospective students are expected to have a strong background in the physical and biological sciences and in mathematics (including algebra and geometry). Extensive use of computers and sophisticated machines necessitates in-depth computer technology training for Radiation Therapists.

Skills & Other Requirements
Because they work with patients who are gravely ill and often under stress, therapists must display emotional strength, empathy, and patience. They must be able to maintain pleasant, positive relationships with their patients on a long-term basis. Radiation Therapists must be able to interact effectively with physicians and with the therapy team when developing plans of treatment.

References
California Occupational Guide: #535

Related Occupations: Registered Nurses, Diagnostic Radiological Technicians

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)