What does a CT Technologist do?
A CT Technologist plays an important role in your facility by supplying your team with the images required to direct patient care. When they interact professionally and fully explain procedures, they can reduce patient anxiety and increase patient satisfaction. By helping maintain equipment, they ensure accuracy of imaging and can reduce the cost of repairing and replacing equipment.
Their inventory-related functions lower the likelihood of your team running out of essential supplies. As a result, a CT Technologist contributes to the overall efficiency and productivity of your diagnostic imaging department.
CT Technologist skills and qualifications
To effectively fulfill CT Technologist job duties, candidates need a set of key skills. Some skills quality applicants possess include:
- Deep familiarity with CT scan equipment
- Basic knowledge of anatomy, biology and chemistry and how to administer IVs
- Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues with CT scan equipment performance
- Observational skills to notice any problems with images
- Strong oral communications skills to field patients’ questions and collaborate with other members of the care team
- Organizational skills to maintain an orderly supply area
- Mathematics skills to assist with contrast administration and maintain inventory
- Computer skills to operate CT scan equipment, use e-mail and update medical records using health information systems software
CT Technologist experience requirements
How much experience a candidate must have to succeed in your open position depends on your facility or institution’s needs. If you only have one CT Technologist on-site at a time, you may wish to look for candidates who have one or two years of experience.
Busy radiology departments may also benefit from having more experienced technologists on staff. Candidates with little to no experience may perform well at smaller facilities with low patient traffic or working alongside more seasoned technologists who can provide training and advice.
CT Technologist education and training requirements
Candidates generally need to hold certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) to work as CT Technologists. To receive the credential, candidates must complete a 16 credit-hour training program approved by the AART and pass a written examination.
Education programs for CT Technologists may award a certificate, a diploma, an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree. Degree programs are more likely to include additional training in mathematics, science and anatomy, so you may wish to prioritize candidates who completed one.
CT Technologist salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a CT Technologist is $26,263 per year. Your facility or institution can use current job market conditions in your area and candidates’ education, certification status and experience to arrive at your salary offer.
CT Technologist salary expectations
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Common salary:
2482.94 WEEKLY -
Typical salaries range from
1200.00 -4000.00 WEEKLY - Find more information on Indeed Salaries
*Indeed data –
Job description samples for similar positions
If the description of CT Technologist careers doesn’t fully capture what your institution or facility requires, consider the duties and responsibilities of these related positions:
CT Technologist job description FAQs
How does location affect the experience and training requirements of a CT Technologist?
Most states require CT Technologists to obtain a license prior to independently performing diagnostic imaging tests on patients. If your facility or institution is in one of these states, you’ll need to look for CT Technologists who either already have a license or have the training and experience necessary to obtain one before their start date. Licensing eligibility laws vary, but most states mandate that CT Technologists pass an examination.
What should you look for in a CT Technologist resume?
When comparing resumes, examine the certification, education and experience sections carefully to ensure that candidates meet your minimum requirements. Keep your patient population in mind as you review resumes, and look for candidates with skills and experience that may make them well suited to caring for your patients. For example, a CT Technologist who is fluent in Spanish may be an asset at home clinics, or a candidate who worked with kids in a previous job may be a good match for an opening at a children’s hospital.
What qualities make a good CT Technologist?
Having the right type of personality can allow a CT Technologist to quickly build a rapport with patients. People who are empathetic, approachable, good listeners and friendly are more likely to make patients feel relaxed and comfortable. Being attentive to detail and enjoying teamwork are also beneficial traits for CT Technologists.
*Indeed provides this information as a courtesy to users of this site. Please note that we are not your recruiting or legal advisor, we are not responsible for the content of your job descriptions, and none of the information provided herein guarantees performance.
