Diagnostic Radiologic Technologists and Technicians are healthcare professionals who perform or supervise technical work in the field of diagnostic radiologic examinations in a hospital or clinic environment. These examinations are performed under the direction of a physician as part of the diagnostic plan for patients. Radiologic Technologists and Technicians specialize in the operation of medical imaging equipment such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines, computed tomography (CT) machines, and ultrasound imaging machines among other medical imaging equipment. They are trained for other tasks that may be required for the needed radiologic examination such as the preparation and administration of contrast materials. They are also responsible for instructing patients during a scan and for capturing the results of procedures in a computer. They prepare the results of radiologic examinations and convey such to the physician for further interpretation.

Radiologic Technologists and Technicians are mostly employed by general medical and surgical hospitals, and medical and diagnostic laboratories. Many of them also work in physician offices and outpatient care centers. A good number of Radiologic Technologists and Technicians are employed by the Federal Government. In fact, the Federal Government is one of the top paying industries for Radiologic Technologists and Technicians according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. There were 5,930 Radiologic Technologists and Technicians employed by the Federal Government as of May 2021 earning an average annual salary of $73,990.

Most Radiologic Technologists and Technicians in the Federal Government are employed by the Veterans Health Administration and the Indian Health Service. Their duties generally include performing the full spectrum of radiographic and fluoroscopic examinations. Their work also entails reviewing lab and medical history of patients to determine their ability to undergo the examination and to determine possible side effects. They are responsible for positioning or placing the body of the patient in the proper positions to obtain the views requested. They also perform procedures such as gastrointestinal (GI) examinations, cholangiograms, intravenous pyelography, and arthrography. Radiologic Technologists and Technicians maintain responsibility for inventory and stocking of radiography supplies and other materials, as well as keeping accurate records and files of examinations performed.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the overall employment of Radiologic Technologists and Technicians to grow at 9% from 2020 to 2030. This is slightly higher than the average growth rate for all occupations. The Bureau estimates an average of 20,800 openings for this occupation every year over the decade.

Radiologic Technologists and Technicians intending to work in the Federal Government are required to complete a full-time training course of at least 24 months (or equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree, duly certified by the pertinent accrediting body. Job position and responsibilities largely depend on the professional’s educational background and work experience. Some individuals who are in the process of obtaining the relevant practical experience and training work as interns receiving GS-1 salaries. Obtaining relevant certifications or degrees increases the starting grade and leads to promotion. Typically promotions are given 1 grade at a time up to a maximum of GS-9.