what is a radiographer?
A radiographer is a healthcare professional who is trained to use imaging equipment to create images of the internal structures of the body. These images can be used to diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions. As a radiographer, you may specialise in a particular area of imaging, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, or ultrasounds.
You work closely with physicians, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. You will have a thorough understanding of anatomy and medical terminology to position patients properly and produce accurate images.
If this profession sounds like something that would appeal to your compassionate nature and scientific mind, read on to find out more about the skills and competencies needed to thrive as a radiographer.
find your jobaverage radiographer salary
According to Payscale, the average salary of a radiographer is around ₹306,498 per year. This average factors in various benefits, like bonuses and profit-sharing agreements. The range of pay for this profession is quite wide. For example, entry-level radiographers make upwards of ₹276,000 per year, while those later in their career can earn as much as ₹910,000 per year.
factors that affect radiographer’s pay
Radiographers with more experience typically earn higher salaries than those who are just starting their careers. This is because experienced radiographers have developed their skills and knowledge over time and are often able to work more independently. Related to experience is your speciality. Radiographers who specialise in a particular area of imaging, such as MRI or CT, may earn higher salaries than those who do not specialise.
The location of your job can also have an impact on how much you are paid. Radiographers who work in larger cities or metropolitan areas tend to earn higher salaries than those who work in rural or suburban areas.
types of radiographers
There are several types of radiographers, each specialising in a particular area of imaging. Here are some of the most common types:
- X-ray technicians: X-ray technicians specialise in producing X-ray images of the body, often working in hospitals, clinics, and radiology centres.
- computed tomography (CT) technicians: as a CT technician, you specialise in producing CT scans of the body. CT scans use X-rays and a computer to produce detailed images of the body.
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technicians: in this role, you specialise in the production of MRI scans of the body. These scans use a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body.
- ultrasound technicians: ultrasound technicians specialise in producing ultrasound images using high-frequency sound waves. This method can be used to produce images of the internal structures of the body.
working as a radiographer
If the thought of working in a hospital environment with powerful medical machines appeals to you, being a radiographer is a great option for your career. Below we explore some of the tasks and responsibilities involved in this profession.
-
radiographer job description
The specific duties of a radiographer include:
- prepare patients: part of your role involves preparing patients for imaging procedures by explaining the process, positioning the patient, and ensuring their safety.
- operating imaging equipment: the main part of your role as a radiographer involves using the relevant machines to produce high-quality images of the internal structures of the body.
- maintaining imaging equipment: another aspect of your role is the maintenance of the machines you work with. You maintain your machinery and ensure it stays in proper working order.
- evaluating image quality: once you have produced images of a patient, you assess the quality of the images produced and make adjustments as needed.
- communicating with physicians: your work is ultimately to provide doctors and other healthcare professionals with more information so that they can provide the best healthcare possible. To facilitate this, you communicate regularly with physicians and other healthcare professionals about imaging results and patient care.
-
work environment
As a radiographer, you work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and radiology centres. You may also work in physician's offices or mobile imaging units. Your environment is clinical, and regulations regarding things like cleanliness will almost certainly be enforced.
-
who are your colleagues?
Radiographers work closely with a variety of healthcare professionals, including physicians, pharmacists, healthcare assistants, nurses, radiologists, and other imaging technologists. Physicians are collaborated with to ensure that patients receive the appropriate imaging services. Physicians may order imaging tests for a variety of reasons, such as to diagnose and monitor medical conditions or guide surgical procedures.
You also work with radiologists. These are physicians who specialise in interpreting imaging results. Radiologists review the images produced by radiographers like you and provide a diagnosis or interpretation of the results. Radiographers may communicate with you about specific imaging tests or results and may assist with more complex procedures such as CT or MRI-guided biopsies.
You may also work closely with other imaging technologists, such as ultrasound technicians or CT technologists. You work together with these professionals to ensure that patients receive the appropriate imaging services and that images of high quality are produced. Radiographers may also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as nurses, medical assistants, and executive assistants.
Beyond your immediate colleagues, you may also occasionally work with the wider healthcare community, such as social workers.
-
work schedule
Radiographers typically work full-time, though your schedule may vary depending on your area of specialisation and the needs of your employer.
If you work in hospitals or clinics that are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, your schedule will require flexibility. Like many radiographers, you may be required to work evening, night, or weekend shifts to ensure that imaging services are available when needed.
In addition to regular shifts, you may also be required to work on-call shifts. During these shifts, you are available to come into work at short notice if an emergency imaging test is needed.
Depending on the nature of your employment, you also have the opportunity to work part-time or on a flexible schedule. This can be beneficial for individuals who have other commitments such as childcare or education but will need to be agreed with your employer.
-
job outlook
Your outlook as a radiographer is a positive one. It is a career that pays well and provides the opportunity to make a positive difference in people’s lives. Additionally, it is a job that should remain in high demand thanks to the expected continued growth of the healthcare industry.
-
advantages of finding a radiographer job through randstad
Finding your radiographer job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid on a monthly basis
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a radiographer is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
education and skills
Some of the academic qualifications for radiographers include:
- bachelor’s degree: to work as a radiographer, you have at least a bachelor’s degree in radiography. This should be considered a minimum requirement, as the complex nature of the work you do requires a high level of education.
- postgraduate diploma: though not essential, a postgraduate degree can help you stand out when looking for a job. Not to mention, having one will also improve your potential earnings
- master’s degree: as with a postgraduate diploma, a master’s degree is not essential for this career path. Still, having one will help you make it through the hiring process and improve your earning potential.
radiographer skills and competencies
Some of the qualities of a radiographer include:
- attention to detail: radiographers must be able to produce high-quality images that accurately depict the internal structures of the body. It’s important to remember that people’s health is at stake.
- communication skills: you are able to communicate effectively with patients, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to convey information as needed.
- technical skills: you have a thorough understanding of imaging equipment and are able to operate it effectively. You are essentially the authority when it comes to the machines your work with.
- compassion: radiographers must be able to put patients at ease and provide emotional support during imaging procedures.
- critical thinking skills: you are able to evaluate images and make adjustments to ensure that the images you produce are of the highest quality possible.
FAQs about working as a radiographer
Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of a radiographer.
-
are radiographers in demand in India?
There is currently a healthy demand for radiographers in India. This is largely due to the growth of the healthcare industry as a whole.
-
is radiography a good career in India?
Yes, being a radiographer can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice. Radiographers play an important role in the medical field and have the opportunity to help patients every day.
-
what is a radiographer salary in India?
The average salary of a radiographer in India is around ₹306,498 per year, with the overall range being between ₹276,000 and ₹910,000 per year.
-
how long does it take to become a radiographer?
It typically takes two to four years to complete a radiography program and obtain the necessary license or certification to practice.
-
what skills do I need to be a radiographer?
To be a successful radiographer, you will need skills and competencies such as attention to detail, communication skills, technical skills, compassion, and critical thinking skills.
-
how do I apply for a radiographer vacancy?
Applying for a radiographer job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here!