Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Surgical Technician
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of physicians, to employ radioactive and stable nuclides in diagnostic evaluations and therapeutic applications while monitoring for patient health and safety.
What Nuclear Medicine Technologists Do
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of physicians, to employ radioactive and stable nuclides in diagnostic evaluations and therapeutic applications while monitoring for patient health and safety.
Common Tasks
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
- 1Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
- 2Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
- 3Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers.
- 4Supervise laboratory sessions.
- 5Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others.
What You'll Learn
Types of Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Work Environment
Locations
- • Hospitals
- • Outpatient imaging centers
- • Cancer treatment centers
- • Cardiology clinics
- • Radiology and nuclear medicine departments
Schedule
Most work full time on a set schedule, with some early/late shifts, weekends, or on-call coverage depending on the facility and patient volume.
Physical Demands
The job involves a mix of standing, walking, and frequent hands-on work positioning patients and handling equipment. You must follow strict radiation-safety procedures and be comfortable working carefully under time pressure.
Salary & Job Outlook
National Employment: 309,600 jobs
Top Paying States
Why Demand May Grow
An aging population and rising rates of cancer and heart disease can increase demand for diagnostic imaging and radionuclide therapies. Expanded use of PET/CT and other nuclear imaging in precision medicine may also drive more procedures.
Skills You'll Need
Pros & Cons
Pros
- • Strong pay for an allied health role
- • Meaningful patient impact through diagnosis and therapy
- • High-tech work with advanced imaging equipment
- • Clear professional credentialing and career pathways
- • Typically predictable schedules compared with some bedside roles
Cons
- • Radiation exposure risk requires constant safety vigilance
- • High responsibility and time pressure during procedures
- • Smaller job market than many other imaging fields
- • May involve lifting/positioning patients and long periods on your feet
- • Ongoing continuing education and compliance requirements
Common Questions About the Nuclear Medicine Technologist Trade
Ready to Get Started?
Not Sure This Trade is Right?
Take our free career quiz to discover trades that match your interests and skills.
Take the Career Quiz