Computed Tomography Career Explorer

Job Description

CT technologists are radiographers that specialize in the use of specialized equipment to visualize cross-sectional anatomical structures and aid physicians in the demonstration of pathologies and disease processes.

A person in this career:

  • Operates of CT scanners and MRI scanners
  • Keys commands and data into a computer to document and specify scan sequences
  • Monitors video display of the area being scanned and adjusts the contrast to improve picture quality
  • Monitors the use of radiation safety measures to comply with government regulations and to ensure safety
  • Positions patients on the examining table
  • Reviews and evaluates images and computer-generated information for technical quality
  • Explains procedures to patients to reduce anxieties and get their cooperation
  • Sets up examination rooms and makes sure that all necessary equipment is ready
  • Monitors patients' conditions and reactions and reports abnormal signs to a physician 

Working conditions and physical demands:

  • Handle loads of up to 10 pounds, sometimes up to 30 pounds. You might do a lot of lifting, walking and standing or use your arms to control machines, equipment or tools
  • Work in this occupation involves use of protective items such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, full-suit protection or radiation protection
  • Work in this occupation involves sitting most of the time
  • Exposure to disease and infections more than once per month through work such as patient care, laboratory work and sanitation control
  • Exposure to radiation more than once a month

Working in this career involves (physical activities):

  • Speaking clearly enough to be able to be understood by others
  • Seeing clearly up close
  • Identifying and understanding the speech of another person
  • Seeing clearly at a distance
  • Identifying color and seeing differences in color, including shades and brightness 

Work hours may include:

  • Irregular hours
  • Weekend work

Career at a Glance

Salary Range
$54,184 to $67,600

Skills Needed
Enjoy hands-on manual activities
Good math and science skills
Enjoys helping people

Job Duties
Use specialized equipment to produce images of human body from cross-sectional perspective.
Direct patient care

Work Locations
Hospitals, clinics