How much does a nuclear medicine tech make?

In the U.S., experience and certification can affect earnings, and pay also varies by workplace and location: outpatient centers, labs, hospitals, and doctors’ offices do not pay alike. Hours matter too; some technologists work evenings or weekends.

Prepare, administer, and measure radioactive isotopes in therapeutic, diagnostic, and tracer studies using a variety of radioisotope equipment. Prepare stock solutions of radioactive materials and calculate doses to be administered by radiologists. Subject patients to radiation. Execute blood volume, red cell survival, and fat absorption studies following standard laboratory techniques.

What's a typical day like?

They explain the scan, prepare and give a radioactive tracer, then position the patient by a camera for images, following safety rules. Between patients, they check equipment, record procedures, and handle radioactive waste.

U.S. entrants usually finish an accredited associate program with supervised clinical practice and pass a certification exam such as NMTCB’s; this is a college route, not usually an apprenticeship. State licenses vary, and many graduates start in their early 20s.

Vocational school or a few years' experience (preparation level 3 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and figuring things out.

Some U.S. nuclear medicine techs may help as emergency responders if a nuclear disaster happens.