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Types of Healthcare Technologists and Technicians (With Salaries)

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Healthcare is one of the most diverse and rewarding career paths out there. If you’re considering a career in this field but aren’t sure where to start, becoming a healthcare technologist or technician could be the perfect fit. Within the world of healthcare tech, there are many specializations that cater to a variety of skills, interests, and educational backgrounds. Whether you’re interested in lab work, surgery, or patient care, the right specialization is out there for you. 

In this article, we’ll explore the many types of healthcare technologists and technicians, the salary you can expect to earn, and the job growth trends that are shaping this vast and varied field. 

Diagnostic & Imaging

Radiologic Technologist

Also known as X-ray technologists or radiographers, radiologic technologists perform X-rays and other diagnostic imaging exams in hospitals, imaging centers, or clinics. Becoming a radiologic technologist typically requires certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). With additional training and certification, radiologic technologists may also perform CT scans, mammograms, MRIs, or other imaging exams. 

Median US salary: $76,020
Job growth outlook: 271,200 jobs in 2023; 6% growth projected by 2033

MRI Technologist

An MRI technologist is a radiologic technologist who specializes in magnetic resonance imaging. MRI technologists are responsible for the entire MRI procedure, from preparing patients to performing scans and ensuring proper use of the equipment. Due to their advanced skill set and training, as well as additional ARRT certification required, MRI technologists typically earn a higher median salary than general radiologic technicians.

Median US salary: $83,740
Job growth outlook: 271,200 jobs in 2023; 6% growth projected by 2033

Ultrasound Technician

Also known as diagnostic medical sonographers, ultrasound technicians operate specialized equipment that uses high-frequency sound waves to form diagnostic images of the inside of the body. They typically work in hospitals, clinics, and outpatient centers. Becoming an ultrasound technician requires certification, most commonly through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). 

Median US salary: $84,470
Job growth outlook: 143,400 jobs in 2023; 11% growth projected by 2033

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Nuclear medicine technologists are responsible for preparing and administering radiopharmaceuticals—medications that contain small amounts of radioactive substances—for imaging, diagnosis, and treatment. They typically work in hospitals or imaging centers and require certification through either the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or ARRT.

Median US salary: $92,500
Job outlook: 17,800 jobs in 2023; -1% decline projected by 2033

Cardiovascular Technologist/Technician

Cardiovascular technologists and technicians assist physicians in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the heart and blood vessels. Technicians typically perform tests such as EKGs, while technologists assist with more advanced procedures such as echocardiograms and heart catheterizations. Cardiovascular technologists and technicians typically work in hospitals or cardiac care centers and require certification through Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). Certain specializations, such as vascular sonography (imaging of the blood vessels), require further certification through ARDMS or CCI.

Median US salary: $66,170
Job growth outlook: 143,400 jobs in 2023; 11% growth projected by 2033

Ophthalmic Technologist/Technician

Ophthalmic technologists and technicians are responsible for performing diagnostic exams and procedures related to eye health. Technicians are typically responsible for basic diagnostics like patient history and eye pressure measurements, while technologists perform more advanced exams and assist ophthalmologists with surgeries. Ophthalmic technologists and technicians typically work in ophthalmology clinics and hospitals and can acquire certification through the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO).

Median US salary: $44,640
Job outlook: 67,000 jobs in 2023; -1% decline projected by 2033

EEG Technician

EEG technicians assist neurologists in diagnosing brain conditions by using specialized electroencephalographic (EEG) machines to measure and monitor brain activity. EEG technicians typically work in hospitals, neurology clinics, or sleep centers, and can acquire certification through the American Board of Registration of Electroencephalographic Technologists (ABRET).

Median US salary: $72,800
Job growth outlook: 99,600 jobs in 2023, 3% growth projected by 2033

Surgical

Surgical Technologist/Technician

As part of a surgical care team, surgical technologists and technicians assist surgeons and nurses before, during, and after procedures. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing and preparing instruments, and more. Surgical technologists typically undergo more advanced training than technicians, who do not always require certification. They most commonly work in hospitals and surgery centers and can be certified by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Some more specialized roles require further education and certification: Anesthesia technologists, for example, must be certified through the American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians (ASATT).

Median US salary: $60,370
Job growth outlook: 134,000 jobs in 2023; 6% growth projected by 2033

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA)

Certified surgical first assistants provide direct assistance to surgeons during procedures. Their duties include preparing the surgical site, monitoring patients, suturing, applying dressings, and more. Certified surgical first assistants often work in hospitals or surgical centers and require CFSA certification through the NBSTSA. 

Median US salary: $59,160
Job growth outlook: 21,300 jobs in 2023; 6-8% growth projected by 2033

Endoscopy Technician

Endoscopy technicians, also known as gastrointestinal technicians, assist with gastrointestinal procedures that use an endoscope. They prepare the operating room before a procedure and ensure proper sterilization after the procedure. They typically work in hospitals, surgical centers, or clinics, and while not always required, they can earn a GI Technical Specialist Certificate through the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses (SGNA). 

Median US salary: $44,490
Job growth outlook: 108,500 jobs in 2023; 6-8% growth projected by 2033

Sterile Processing Technician

Sometimes known as instrument technicians, sterile processing technicians manage the sterilization and maintenance of surgical instruments and equipment. They are also responsible for keeping inventory and preparing tools for surgery. Sterile processing technicians often work in hospitals and surgical centers and usually require certification through the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).

Median US salary: $45,280
Job growth outlook: 70,700 jobs in 2023; 6-8% growth projected by 2033

Cardiac Cath Lab Technician

Also known as cardiac catheterization technologists, cardiac cath lab technicians assist with invasive cardiology procedures. They are responsible for preparing and monitoring patients, operating specialized equipment, and assisting with catheter insertion. They often work in hospitals and cardiac care centers and usually require a Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist certification through CCI.

Median US salary: $66,170

Other Types of Healthcare Technologists

Laboratory

Medical Laboratory Technician/Technologist
Conducts lab tests for disease diagnosis

Phlebotomist
Draws blood for lab tests

Histotechnologist/Histotechnician
Prepares tissue samples for microscopic examination

Cytotechnologist
Studies cells for abnormalities, often related to cancer

Pathology Technician
Assists pathologists in examining bodies and tissues

Blood Bank Technician
Works in blood collection and preparation for transfusion

Microbiology Technician
Specializes in testing and identifying microorganisms

GI Lab Technician
Assists with procedures such as colonoscopies and endoscopies

Therapy & Rehabilitation

Physical Therapy Technician (Rehab Technician)
Supports physical therapists in rehabilitation settings

Occupational Therapy Technician
Assists in therapy for daily living skills

Radiation Therapy Technologist
Administers radiation treatments for cancer patients

Polysomnographic Technician (Sleep Technician)
Conducts sleep studies for diagnosing sleep disorders

Speech Therapy Technician (Speech-Language Pathology Assistant)
Assists speech-language pathologists in delivering therapy

Orthopedic Technician
Assists with casting, splinting, and bracing in orthopedic care

Hyperbaric Oxygen Technician
Assists with hyperbaric oxygen therapy, often used for wound healing

Orthotic and Prosthetic Technician
Helps create and repair orthopedic braces and prosthetic devices

Kinesiotherapy Technician
Works in rehabilitation settings, assisting with movement therapy and exercise

Pharmacy

Pharmacy Technician
Assists pharmacists in preparing medications

Dialysis & Clinical Support

Dialysis Technician
Provides dialysis treatment for patients with kidney issues

Electroneurodiagnostic Technologist
Performs tests that study the electrical activity in the brain and nervous system

Biomedical Equipment Technician
Maintains and repairs medical equipment

Sterilization Technician
Focuses on cleaning and maintaining clinical equipment, distinct from surgical settings

Dialysis Biomedical Technician
Ensures that dialysis equipment is properly functioning and compliant with health standards

Emergency & Critical Care

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Provides pre-hospital emergency care.

Patient Care Technician, Patient Care Assistant, Certified Patient Care Assistant
Supports nursing staff with direct patient care

Cardiology & Electrophysiology

Echocardiography Technician
Performs echocardiograms (heart ultrasounds)

Electrophysiology Technician
Assists in diagnosing and treating heart rhythm disorders

Cardiac Monitor Technician
Monitors heart rhythms and alerts medical staff of abnormalities

Health Information & Admin

Health Information Technician
Manages and organizes health records.

Medical Coding/Billing Technician
Handles coding for patient diagnoses and treatments for billing purposes

Oncology

Dosimetrist
Works with radiation oncologists to plan radiation treatments for cancer patients

Medical Dosimetrist
Calculates and plans the appropriate radiation dose for cancer patients

Oncology Technician
Assists in cancer treatment, including chemotherapy preparation and patient care

Respiratory

Respiratory Therapist
Assists with breathing treatments and managing respiratory conditions

Perfusionist
Operates the heart-lung machine during cardiac surgery

Pulmonary Function Technician/Technologist
Assesses patients’ lung function and assists in diagnosing respiratory conditions

The healthcare industry offers endless opportunities for those looking to make a meaningful impact. As a technologist or technician, you’ll enjoy a dynamic, fast-paced environment with plenty of room for personal and professional growth—all while helping others.

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