Diagnostic radiographer

About this occupation

Diagnostic radiographers plan, prepare and perform diagnostic imaging examinations and post processing, with a wide range of equipment and techniques using X-rays, strong magnetic fields or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and high frequency sound (Ultrasound).

A specialisation of radiographer.

• Observe screen during scan to ensure that image produced is satisfactory for diagnostic purposes, making adjustments to equipment as required.
• Decide which images to include, looking for differences between healthy and pathological areas.
• Operate ultrasound equipment to produce and record images of the motion, shape, and composition of blood, organs, tissues, or bodily masses, such as fluid accumulations.
• Observe and care for patients throughout examinations to ensure their safety and comfort.
• Provide sonogram and oral or written summary of technical findings to physician for use in medical diagnosis.
• Select appropriate equipment settings and adjust patient positions to obtain the best sites and angles.

Preparation

Job Zone 3 of 5

Interests

Realistic, Conventional, Investigative

Top skills: Active Listening, Speaking, Reading Comprehension, Critical Thinking, Social Perceptiveness, Operation and Control

US median pay: US$96,590 a year (2025), 90,160 employed. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.

Subjects this work relies on

How important each subject's knowledge is in the job itself, rated by people doing it (1 to 5).

• PhysicsO*NET: PhysicsVery important (4.5)
• BiologyO*NET: BiologyVery important (4.0)
• English or Literature in EnglishO*NET: English LanguageVery important (3.7)
• Computer StudiesO*NET: Computers and ElectronicsImportant (3.3)

O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.

Preparation needed

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Education

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.