5 Ways Travel Radiology Techs Boost Hourly Pay

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Travel radiology technologists, also known as travel rad techs, have been in high demand in recent years due to staffing shortages and the need for skilled professionals in the healthcare industry. As a result, travel rad techs have the opportunity to earn higher hourly pay rates compared to their permanent counterparts. Here are five ways travel radiology technologists can boost their hourly pay:

1. Gain Specialized Certifications

Having specialized certifications can significantly increase a travel rad tech's earning potential. Certifications like computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mammography, and positron emission tomography (PET) are highly sought after by healthcare facilities. By obtaining these certifications, travel rad techs can demonstrate their expertise and commitment to their profession, making them more attractive to potential employers.

For instance, a travel rad tech with a CT certification can earn an average hourly rate of $45-$60, while a tech without this certification may earn around $35-$50 per hour. Similarly, a travel rad tech with an MRI certification can earn an average hourly rate of $50-$70, compared to $40-$60 per hour for a tech without this certification.

Most Lucrative Certifications for Travel Rad Techs:

• Computed Tomography (CT): $45-$60 per hour
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): $50-$70 per hour
• Mammography: $40-$60 per hour
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET): $45-$65 per hour

2. Choose High-Demand Locations

Travel rad techs can increase their hourly pay by choosing high-demand locations. Cities with a high cost of living, limited job opportunities, or a shortage of skilled professionals tend to offer higher hourly rates to attract and retain top talent.

For example, a travel rad tech working in San Francisco, California, can earn an average hourly rate of $55-$75, while a tech working in a smaller town in the Midwest may earn around $35-$50 per hour. Similarly, a travel rad tech working in a major city like New York or Los Angeles can earn an average hourly rate of $60-$80, compared to $40-$60 per hour in a smaller city.

Top 5 High-Demand Locations for Travel Rad Techs:

• San Francisco, California: $55-$75 per hour
• New York City, New York: $60-$80 per hour
• Los Angeles, California: $60-$80 per hour
• Boston, Massachusetts: $55-$75 per hour
• Seattle, Washington: $50-$70 per hour

3. Negotiate for Higher Pay

Travel rad techs can negotiate for higher pay by researching the market, highlighting their skills and experience, and making a strong case for their desired hourly rate. It's essential to know the average hourly rates for travel rad techs in the location and industry to make informed negotiations.

For instance, a travel rad tech with 5 years of experience and specialized certifications can negotiate for a higher hourly rate by emphasizing their expertise and the value they bring to the facility. By doing so, they can increase their hourly pay by $5-$10 per hour.

Tips for Negotiating Higher Pay:

• Research the market to determine average hourly rates
• Highlight your skills, experience, and certifications
• Make a strong case for your desired hourly rate
• Be confident and assertive during negotiations

4. Take on Overtime or Extra Shifts

Travel rad techs can boost their hourly pay by taking on overtime or extra shifts. Many healthcare facilities offer overtime pay for working beyond regular hours or on weekends and holidays. By taking on additional shifts, travel rad techs can increase their earnings and gain more experience.

For example, a travel rad tech who works 40 hours a week at $50 per hour can earn an additional $100-$200 per week by taking on 5-10 hours of overtime. Similarly, a tech who works extra shifts on weekends or holidays can earn an additional $500-$1000 per month.

Benefits of Taking on Overtime or Extra Shifts:

• Increased earnings
• More experience and skills gained
• Greater job satisfaction and fulfillment

5. Consider Traveling to Rural or Underserved Areas

Travel rad techs can increase their hourly pay by traveling to rural or underserved areas. These areas often have limited access to healthcare services and skilled professionals, resulting in higher demand and pay rates for travel rad techs.

For instance, a travel rad tech working in a rural hospital can earn an average hourly rate of $60-$80, compared to $40-$60 per hour in an urban area. Similarly, a tech working in an underserved area can earn an average hourly rate of $65-$85, compared to $50-$70 per hour in a more affluent area.

Benefits of Traveling to Rural or Underserved Areas:

• Higher pay rates
• Greater job satisfaction and fulfillment
• Opportunity to make a positive impact on the community

In conclusion, travel radiology technologists can boost their hourly pay by gaining specialized certifications, choosing high-demand locations, negotiating for higher pay, taking on overtime or extra shifts, and considering traveling to rural or underserved areas. By taking these steps, travel rad techs can increase their earnings, gain more experience, and enjoy greater job satisfaction and fulfillment.