How To Become A Travel Radiology Tech: Your Complete Guide

Becoming a travel radiology tech means you work temporary jobs in different locations. This guide will show you how to become one. It covers what you need, how much you can earn, and where to find jobs.

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What is a Travel Radiology Tech?

A travel radiology tech is a certified radiologic technologist who takes on short-term work assignments in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across the country. These jobs often fill staffing gaps or cover leaves of absence.

Your Path to Becoming a Travel Radiology Tech

Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming a travel radiology technician.

1. Education and Training

• Graduate from an Accredited Radiography Program: You need to finish a program that teaches you how to take X-rays and other images. Look for programs approved by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree: Most programs offer an Associate’s degree. Some offer a Bachelor’s degree. A Bachelor’s degree might give you more job options later.
• Curriculum: Expect to learn about:
  • Patient care
  • Radiation safety
  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Medical terminology
  • Imaging techniques

2. Certification and Licensing

• Pass the ARRT Exam: The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) gives the test. Passing it means you are a certified radiologic technologist.
• State Licensing: Most states need you to have a license to work. Check what your state requires. Some states accept the ARRT certification in place of their own test. Find the travel x ray tech licensing requirements for each state you are interested in working.

3. Gain Experience

• Start as a Staff Rad Tech: Before you travel, work as a regular radiology tech. This helps you get good at your job. Aim for at least one to two years of experience.
• Learn Different Modalities: Try to learn different types of imaging, like X-ray, CT, or MRI. This makes you more valuable as a traveler.

4. Find a Travel Radiology Tech Agency

• Research Agencies: Look for agencies that specialize in allied health staffing. Radiology technologist travel agencies can help you find jobs and handle paperwork.
• Check Reviews: See what other travelers say about the agencies. Look for ones that treat their employees well.
• Compare Benefits: See what each agency offers for pay, housing, insurance, and other benefits.
• Contact Recruiters: Talk to recruiters at different agencies. Find someone you trust and who understands your needs.

5. Prepare for Travel Assignments

• Update Your Resume: Make sure your resume shows your skills and experience.
• Gather Documents: Collect copies of your certifications, licenses, and other important papers.
• Get Vaccinations: Make sure you have all the shots you need.
• Be Flexible: Travel jobs can be in different places. Be ready to go where you are needed.

Travel Radiology Technician Requirements: What Do You Need?

To work as a certified radiologic technologist travel, you generally need the following:

• ARRT Certification: You must be certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
• State License: You need a license in the state where you will be working.
• Experience: Most agencies want at least one year of experience.
• BLS Certification: You need to be certified in Basic Life Support.
• Immunizations: You need to have current vaccinations.
• Good Communication Skills: You need to be able to talk to patients and other healthcare workers.

Radiology Tech Travel Assignments: What to Expect

• Contract Length: Most assignments last 13 weeks, but can vary.
• Locations: Jobs can be in hospitals, clinics, and other facilities across the country.
• Responsibilities: You will do the same tasks as a regular radiology tech, but in a temporary role.
• Housing: Some agencies offer free or subsidized housing. You can also find your own place to stay.
• Travel: You will need to travel to different job locations. The agency may pay for your travel costs.

Travel Radiology Tech Salary: How Much Can You Earn?

The travel radiology tech salary can be higher than a regular rad tech salary. This is because you are filling a critical need and are willing to travel.

Here’s a general idea of what you can expect:

Factor	Details
Average Weekly Pay	$2,000 – $3,500+ (can be higher based on location and specialty)
Hourly Rate	$40 – $60+ per hour (before taxes and deductions)
Factors Affecting Pay	Location, experience, specialty (CT, MRI), demand, overtime, call-back hours
Benefits	Housing stipends, travel reimbursement, health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off (may vary)

Keep in mind that these are just estimates. Your actual pay will depend on your experience, location, and the agency you work for.

Table: Sample Travel Radiology Tech Salary Ranges

Experience Level	Average Hourly Rate	Average Weekly Pay
1-2 Years	$40 – $50	$1,600 – $2,000
3-5 Years	$50 – $60	$2,000 – $2,400
5+ Years	$60+	$2,400+

How to Get Radiology Tech Travel Jobs: Tips for Success

• Network: Talk to other radiology techs and travel professionals.
• Be Flexible: Be willing to go to different locations and work different shifts.
• Be Professional: Always be on time and do your best work.
• Keep Your Skills Up-to-Date: Take continuing education courses to learn new techniques.
• Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to ask for more money or better benefits.

Benefits of Travel Radiology Tech

There are many benefits of being a travel radiology tech:

• Higher Pay: Earn more than a regular rad tech.
• Travel: See new places and experience different cultures.
• Flexibility: Work when and where you want.
• Career Growth: Learn new skills and gain experience in different settings.
• Networking: Meet new people and make connections in the healthcare field.
• Housing and Travel: Agencies often provide or reimburse for housing and travel costs.

Radiography Travel Opportunities: Different Specialties

While general radiography is common, you can also find travel jobs in other specialties:

• CT Tech: Computed Tomography
• MRI Tech: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Ultrasound Tech: Sonography
• Nuclear Medicine Tech: Nuclear Medicine
• Mammography Tech: Mammography
• Interventional Radiology Tech: IR

Having experience in one or more of these areas can increase your job options and pay.

Fathoming the Financial Side: Taxes and Housing

• Taxes: As a traveler, you’ll likely be classified as a W-2 employee, but may receive stipends to cover housing, meals, and incidentals. These stipends are non-taxed, making your overall compensation attractive. Consult with a tax professional to understand the implications.
• Housing Options: Agencies often provide housing options, or offer a housing stipend if you prefer to find your own accommodation. Evaluate the trade-offs between convenience and cost savings. Some travelers enjoy the flexibility of choosing their own housing, while others prefer the ease of agency-arranged accommodations.

Travel Radiology Tech Schools: Is Further Education Needed?

Generally, there aren’t specific “travel radiology tech schools.” The focus is on becoming a certified radiologic technologist first. However, you can:

• Take Continuing Education: Improve your skills in specific imaging areas.
• Get Advanced Certifications: Become certified in CT, MRI, or other modalities.
• Consider a Bachelor’s Degree: This can open doors to leadership roles in the future.

FAQ: Common Questions About Travel Radiology Tech Jobs

• What are the typical hours for a travel radiology tech?

  • Hours can vary, but typically you’ll work 36-40 hours per week. Some jobs may require you to be on call.

• Can I bring my pet with me on assignments?

  • This depends on the agency and the housing options. Check with your recruiter.

• How long does it take to find a travel assignment?

  • It can take a few weeks to a few months to find the right job. Be patient and work closely with your recruiter.

• What if I don’t like an assignment?

  • Talk to your recruiter. They may be able to find you a different job.

• Is travel radiology tech work stable?

  • The demand for radiology techs is generally high, so travel jobs are usually available. However, assignments are temporary, so you’ll need to be prepared to move to different locations.

Conclusion

Becoming a travel radiology tech is a great way to earn more money, see new places, and grow your career. By following the steps in this guide, you can start your journey today. Remember to get the right education, get certified, gain experience, and find a good agency to work with. Good luck!