As a crucial part of the healthcare system, radiologic technologists, also known as radiology techs or X-ray techs, play a vital role in diagnosing and treating medical conditions. If you're considering a career in radiology technology in New Mexico, one of the most important factors to consider is the salary. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the details of radiology tech salaries in New Mexico, including factors that influence salaries, average salary ranges, and how to increase your earning potential.
Factors That Influence Radiology Tech Salaries in New Mexico
Several factors can impact radiology tech salaries in New Mexico, including:
Location
Salary can vary significantly depending on the location within New Mexico. Cities with a higher cost of living, such as Albuquerque and Santa Fe, tend to offer higher salaries to compensate for the increased cost of living. On the other hand, smaller towns and rural areas may offer lower salaries.
Employer Type
The type of employer can also impact salary. For example, hospitals and medical centers tend to offer higher salaries than private practices or imaging centers.
Level of Experience
As with most careers, level of experience plays a significant role in determining salary. More experienced radiology techs can expect higher salaries, especially if they have specialized skills or certifications.
Education and Certification
Having a degree from an accredited program and certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) can also impact salary. Certified radiology techs with specialized skills, such as mammography or computed tomography (CT), may earn higher salaries.
Specialization
Radiology techs with specialized skills, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or nuclear medicine, may earn higher salaries than those with general radiography skills.
Average Radiology Tech Salary in New Mexico
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for radiologic technologists in New Mexico was $62,610 in May 2020. However, salaries can range from around $45,000 to over $80,000 depending on the factors mentioned above.
Here are some average salary ranges for radiology techs in New Mexico:
- Entry-level radiology techs: $45,000 - $55,000 per year
- Experienced radiology techs: $55,000 - $70,000 per year
- Specialized radiology techs (e.g., MRI, CT): $70,000 - $85,000 per year
Salary Ranges by City in New Mexico
Here are some average salary ranges for radiology techs in major cities in New Mexico:
- Albuquerque: $58,000 - $75,000 per year
- Santa Fe: $55,000 - $70,000 per year
- Las Cruces: $50,000 - $65,000 per year
- Rio Rancho: $52,000 - $68,000 per year
How to Increase Your Earning Potential as a Radiology Tech in New Mexico
While salaries for radiology techs in New Mexico are competitive, there are ways to increase your earning potential:
Pursue Specialized Certifications
Obtaining specialized certifications, such as MRI or CT, can significantly increase your earning potential.
Gain Experience
The more experience you gain, the higher your salary will be. Consider taking on additional responsibilities or working in a leadership role to increase your earning potential.
Pursue Higher Education
Consider pursuing a bachelor's degree or higher in radiologic sciences to increase your earning potential.
Consider Travel Assignments
Travel assignments can offer higher salaries and benefits, as well as the opportunity to work in different locations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, radiology tech salaries in New Mexico are competitive, with average salaries ranging from around $45,000 to over $80,000 depending on factors such as location, employer type, level of experience, education, and specialization. By pursuing specialized certifications, gaining experience, pursuing higher education, and considering travel assignments, you can increase your earning potential as a radiology tech in New Mexico.
We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with valuable information to help you make informed decisions about your career as a radiology tech in New Mexico.
What is the average salary for radiology techs in New Mexico?
+The average annual salary for radiologic technologists in New Mexico was $62,610 in May 2020.
How can I increase my earning potential as a radiology tech in New Mexico?
+Consider pursuing specialized certifications, gaining experience, pursuing higher education, and considering travel assignments to increase your earning potential.
What are the highest-paying cities for radiology techs in New Mexico?
+Albuquerque and Santa Fe tend to offer higher salaries for radiology techs in New Mexico.