Ultrasound Tech Jobs
Working in the diagnostic imaging field can be exciting and beneficial. Monographers who use ultrasound technology to see inside a person’s body can help them determine the sex of their unborn baby, detect serious heart problems before they worsen, and even identify specific injuries. Generally, you will be able to find a number of different ways to get into the field. For example, you might learn the technology in the armed forces or through a course of study at a college. Some hospitals will even provide training, especially if they are in need of employees for this profession.
Between 2006 and 2016, the growth for ultrasound tech jobs was supposed to be 19%, which was higher than the average for other types of jobs. Most monographers will work for hospitals, although others may work at clinics. The average salary for the field was about $57,000 in 2006.
Surgical Tech Jobs
If you are interested in working in the operating, room but do not necessarily want to get your hands dirty, then surgical tech jobs are the best choice. Your job is to assist before, during, and after surgeries. You would prepare the room, the materials, and the patient. You would monitor vital signs, hand around the instruments, and do other useful tasks so the surgeon can focus on the surgery. To qualify for these jobs, you need to complete a course of study that is provided by community and vocational colleges. The course usually lasts up to two years then you will want to complete the steps for certification.
Although the average salary was only $36,000 in 2006, the growth of surgical tech jobs is expected to reach 24% which is much faster than average.
Radiology Tech Jobs
Similar to ultrasound tech jobs, radiographers are supposed to use X-ray equipment to help diagnose patients. They may take the X-rays of a broken hand or inject the chemicals into a patient to help other equipment, such as PET scanners, find the information needed. This field can be physically demanding because you may be forced to move patients into appropriate positions and stand on your feet for hours. To prepare, you will need to complete an accredited study program (most span 2 to 4 years), plus licensure is required in 40 states.
Growth in this field is expected to be around 15% through 2016. The average salary for radiology tech jobs is $48,000.
Pharmacy Tech Jobs
Becoming a full-fledged pharmacist takes a great deal of training so if you want to know if it’s worth the effort or if you want to work behind the counter without that much formal training, pharmacy tech jobs might be a good solution. The pharmacy technician prepares medication that is then checked for accuracy by the pharmacist. This means they must be able to read prescriptions and patients’ charts to know what is needed. They are also responsible for doing administrative tasks, such as answering phones, and directing patient questions to the pharmacists. While you can get most of the training on-the-job, you stand a better chance of being hired if you have completed a training course (often available at vocational colleges).
These positions are expected to grow by 32% by 2016. As more retail stores add pharmacies, more tech jobs in this field will become available. The average salary was about $25,000 per year or the equivalent of roughly $12 per hour.
Computer Tech Jobs
As a computer tech, your primary job is going to be helping repair problems with computer systems and networks for individuals, businesses, and organizations. This means you are going to need a solid background in computers. Most employers are going to look for individuals with a degree in computer science, information technology, or computer repair. If you can demonstrate comparable work experience, however, some employers may overlook formal training limitations. However, you need to remember the field is going to be competitive so having that formal background could make a big difference between whether or not you are chosen for the job. A related field of interest may be in computer security, which would involve protecting computers from so-called cyber-threats.
Unfortunately, the growth for computer tech jobs is only going to be about 13%, which is about average. The average salary for these jobs is around $41,000. However, if you do get into the security aspect of the field you can expect much faster growth and the potential for a higher salary, especially if you can get into the consulting aspect of the industry. Companies will pay big money to protect their technological infrastructure.
