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An Interventional Radiology (IR) Technologist, also known as an Interventional Radiologic Technologist or IR Tech, is a specialized medical profession that uses medical imaging such as x-rays, CT scans, and ultrasound to guide minimally invasive procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of many medical conditions.

An IR tech must work closely with a radiologist and other members of the team to perform procedures including the use of catheters and needles. These procedures are performed through small incisions or body openings, reducing the need for a traditional open surgery. An IR tech is skilled in operating and positioning specialized imaging equipment such as a CT or ultrasound machine. The IR technologist is also responsible for preparing and positioning the patient for the procedure, explaining the process, and ensuring their comfort throughout the procedure.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall employment of radiologic and MRI technologists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for other occupations.

Top 5 Highest and Lowest Paying States for IR Tech Jobs in the US

Specific salary data can vary by state and over time. Salaries are influenced by the demand for the specialty, cost of living, and regional economic conditions. According to ZipRecruiter, the highest and lowest paying states for IR techs are as follows:

Top 5 Highest Paying States for IR Techs:

  1. New York
  2. Vermont
  3. California
  4. Maine
  5. Idaho

Top 5 Lowest Paying States for IR Techs:

  1. Florida
  2. Arkansas
  3. West Virginia
  4. Michigan
  5. Kentucky

The state data varies between resources.Historical Data (Salary Outlook) For Salary Median

Historical Data (Salary Outlook) For Salary Median

Information from https://www.zippia.com/interventional-radiologist-jobs/salary/#salary-history-line-chart

Median salary, Entry-level salary, and Average salary

Salary figures for an IR technologist can vary based on geographic location, level of experience, education, and the type of healthcare facility. The median salary in the U.S. is in the range of $65,000 to $75,000 per year.  Entry-level salaries for an IR tech may be lower than the median and may range from $50,000 to $60,000 per year. Entry-level salaries are often influenced by education background, certifications, and any prior experience. The average salary often falls in the range of $60,000 to $80,000 per year.

A traveling IR technologist may receive compensation that includes higher hourly rates or additional benefits because of the temporary nature of their assignment.

Average IR Tech Job Salary by State (for non-traveling techs)

StateAnnual SalaryWeekly SalaryHourly Wage
Alabama$85,953$1,652$41.32
Alaska$94,730$1,821$45.54
Arizona$88,372$1,699$42.49
Arkansas$71,922$1,383$34.58
California$101,123$1,944$48.62
Colorado$91,334$1,756$43.91
Connecticut$84,993$1,634$40.86
Delaware$86,639$1,666$41.65
Florida$70,863$1,362$34.07
Georgia$80,071$1,539$38.50
Hawaii$91,764$1,764$44.12
Idaho$97,123$1,867$46.69
Illinois$84,284$1,620$40.52
Indiana$90,238$1,735$43.38
Iowa$84,797$1,630$40.77
Kansas$79,173$1,522$38.06
Kentucky$75,697$1,455$36.39
Louisiana$77,770$1,495$37.39
Maine$98,237$1,889$47.23
Maryland$83,985$1,615$40.38
Massachusetts$95,363$1,833$45.85
Michigan$75,679$1,455$36.38
Minnesota$89,076$1,713$42.83
Mississippi$84,098$1,617$40.43
Missouri$81,309$1,563$39.09
Montana$87,040$1,673$41.85
Nebraska$82,421$1,585$39.63
Nevada$89,571$1,722$43.06
New Hampshire$93,810$1,804$45.10
New Jersey$94,176$1,811$45.28
New Mexico$89,159$1,714$42.86
New York$105,015$2,019$50.49
North Carolina$78,823$1,515$37.90
North Dakota$93,537$1,798$44.97
Ohio$86,743$1,668$41.70
Oklahoma$79,817$1,534$38.37
Oregon$93,623$1,800$45.01
Pennsylvania$96,180$1,849$46.24
Rhode Island$86,718$1,667$41.69
South Carolina$80,484$1,547$38.69
South Dakota$88,402$1,700$42.50
Tennessee$82,817$1,592$39.82
Texas$96,822$1,861$46.55
Utah$82,622$1,588$39.72
Vermont$103,166$1,983$49.60
Virginia$85,703$1,648$41.20
Washington$97,067$1,866$46.67
West Virginia$74,281$1,428$35.71
Wisconsin$92,790$1,784$44.61
Wyoming$91,820$1,765$44.14
Data from ZipRecruiter

Average IR Technologist Job Salary by State (for traveling techs)

StateAnnual SalaryWeekly SalaryHourly Wage
All US States$95,196$1,831$46
Data from ZipRecruiter “Traveling Interventional Radiology Technologist”

What is the average incentive bonus for an IR Tech Job?

An average sign-on bonus for an IR Technologist can vary between 2500-5000k. Incentive bonuses for an IR tech can vary depending on the employer and specific factors related to job performance. Common types of incentive bonuses that IR technologists may receive include performance-based, achieving targets, sign-on bonuses, or a retention bonus.

A performance-based bonus may be based on meeting or exceeding target metrics. A productivity bonus is tied to the number of completed procedures or scans. Employers may offer a one-time bonus for obtaining a certification. Referral bonuses may be given when an IR tech refers a colleague who is then hired. Lastly, a patient satisfaction bonus may be given based on patient feedback or patient satisfaction scores.

Employed vs. self-employed IR Tech Job

Salaries differ between an employed and self-employed IR tech and are influenced by benefits, job security, tax implications, and business expenses. Employed IR techs receive a stable income, health insurance, retirement plans and time off. They have less financial risk, administrative responsibilities, but less flexibility in setting their hours and rates. Most IR techs are employed by a hospital, imaging center or physician office.

Self-employed CT techs have the potential for higher earnings but are independent contractors. They are responsible for their own retirement plan and may/may not be provided with healthcare. They have the potential to set their own rates, but their income is often based on the volume of procedures and the rates charges for those procedures.

How to do an effective IR Tech job search

It is easy to find an IR technologist job with PRNHealthcare. Find the Allied link at the top of our website. Use the position job search bar by searching “I am an Interventional Rad Tech” and select the specialty, “Interventional Rad Tech.” Finally, use the location bar to select your state and city of choice.

Most common benefits for IR Tech

Being an IR Technologist comes with both professional and personal benefits including:

  1. Health Insurance: Many employers will provide health insurance including medical, dental, and a vision plan. The coverage specifics can vary, and an employee may have the option to choose from several plans.
  2. Retirement Plan: Retirement benefits such as a 401(k) or pension plan may be offered. Some employers may even match your contribution.
  3. Paid Time Off (PTO): IR technologists often receive paid time off which may include vacation days, sick days, and holidays. The accrual rate and policies may vary when using the PTO.
  4. Continuing Education Opportunities: Employers may be supportive of professional development by offering continuing education opportunities. This may include workshops, conferences, and courses to help IR techs stay current in their field.
  5. Certification Reimbursement: Employers may reimburse an IR tech for the costs associated with obtaining and maintaining their professional certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART) or other relevant certifications.
  6. Professional Membership: An employer may provide reimbursement for professional membership in an organization related to radiology/interventional radiology to encourage networking and access to occupational resources.
  7. Life Insurance: Life insurance is often offered as part of the benefit package.
  8. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): FSA/HSA accounts allow employees to set aside pre-taxed dollars for qualified medical expenses, providing a tax-advantage way to manage the cost of healthcare.
  9. Employee Wellness Program: Some employers offer wellness programs to encourage a healthy lifestyle including fitness incentives and gym discounts.
  10. Tuition Reimbursement: Employers may offer reimbursement for their employees to pursue additional education, or an advanced degree related to their field.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary for an IR Technologists?

As of January 2022, the average salary for an IR technologist ranges from $65,000 to $75,000 per year but can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the type of healthcare facility.

How does experience impact an IR Tech’s salary?

An IR technologist with more experience and several years in the field may be offered a higher salary than an entry-level technologist.

Are there differences in salary based on location?

Yes, salaries vary based on geographic locations. If you are working in an urban area or a region with a higher cost of living, your salary may be higher compared to a rural area.

What factors can influence salary negotiations for an IR Technologist?

Years of experience, additional certifications, specialized training, and the demand for IR technologists in a particular region or healthcare facility are factors that may influence salary negotiations.

Do certifications have an impact on an IR Technologist’s salary?

Yes, additional certifications such as those from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART) or the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) can impact your salary. Special certifications in vascular or interventional radiology can also contribute to a higher earning potential.

Is overtime common? How does it affect salary?

Overtime is not uncommon in healthcare. Overtime hours may increase an IR tech’s overall earnings if they work more than their regular schedule.

Are there opportunities for career advancement and salary growth in the field?

Yes, many opportunities exist for career advancement in interventional radiology. IR techs may pursue leadership roles such as a supervisor or chief technologist position which often come with a higher salary.

What benefits are typically offered to an IR Technologist?

Benefits will vary by employer but often include health insurance, a retirement plan, paid time off, and continuing education opportunities. These factors contribute to the overall compensation package.