CAREER SNAPSHOT
Summary
Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments that destroy cells and shrink tumors in patients who have cancer and other diseases.
Career Level
Similar Jobs
Consider these careers as well:
Salary
National average, per year
$80,570
JOB OPENINGS
Current national estimate
1,011
DEMAND OUTLOOK
Actual salaries can vary substantially based on region, job description and employer expectations; does not include additional compensation. Data source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statisticcs.
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: May 2019
OVERVIEW
Radiation Therapist Job Description
Radiation therapists are a vital part of the oncology team. They administer high doses of radiation which destroys cancerous cells and shrinks tumors.
Radiation therapists must have an in-depth knowledge of human anatomy, radiation physics and the physiology and psychology of cancer. They must be proficient in the operating procedures of the treatment machines that they use. They must always follow safety protocols and procedures to protect the patient and themselves from overexposure of radiation.
Radiation therapists typically work in hospitals or cancer treatment centers. They enjoy good pay, job stability and opportunities for career growth.
Radiation Therapist Job Responsibilities
Radiation therapists may perform the following job duties. Actual duties may vary by job and location.
- Administer radiation treatments to patients
- Explain treatment plan to patients and families
- Operate and maintain machines
- Follow safety procedures to protect patients and themselves from improper radiation exposure
- Monitor patients for adverse reactions to treatment
- Track and record treatments
Radiation Therapist Salary
The actual salary of the radiation therapist can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Most recent data shown.
National average per year: $80,570*
National average per hour: $38.73*
- $78,042 per year, $37.52 per hour**
- $79,581 per year, $38.26 per hour***
- $74,516 to $92,091 per year****
- $76,604 per year, $36.83 per hour*****
* Bureau of Labor Statics
** Indeed.com
*** Payscale.com
**** Salary.com
***** Glassdoor.com
Radiation Therapist Career Pros and Cons
What are the ups and downs of being a radiation therapist? Here are a few items to keep in mind.
Pros
- Good pay
- Usually work a regular schedule
- Potential for career growth
- Meet new and interesting people
- Rewarding to help patients
- Job stability
Cons
- Physically demanding
- Emotionally demanding
- Risk of radiation exposure
CAREER PATH AND TRAINING
How Do I Become a Radiation Therapist?
There a multiple ways to become a radiation therapist that can include on-the job training, or a combination of formal training and on-the-job training. To get started, consider the following three first steps.r tracking and following up with claims.
- Obtain your high school diploma/GED.
- Earn an associate’s (minimum required) or bachelor’s degree (preferred) from an accredited radiation therapy program.
- Pass the exam to obtain certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT); this is not required in all states but is highly recommended.
Suggested Career Path
The position of the radiation therapist is in the middle of the medical career pathway and can be preceded by entry-level or other mid-level jobs. A sample career path could look like this:
Radiology Technician > Radiation Therapist > Radiologist
Typical Minimum Education
Actual requirements may vary by state. Please check with your state government.
- High school diploma / GED
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy from an accredited institution
Typical Work Experience Required
Experience gained through completion of radiation therapy program.
Typical Skills Required
Common skills listed. Actual skills required may vary by location.
- Leadership skills
- Physical stamina
- Strong technical skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Careful attention to safety procedures
- Ability to work in a team
- Empathy
- Accuracy and attention to detail
- Thorough understanding and knowledge of human anatomy, radiation physics and the physiology and psychology of cancer
Radiation Therapist Certifications
Certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is voluntary, but preferred by many employers. Some states require this certification in order to obtain licensure.
- T, Radiation Therapy, (ARRT)
Click on the certification to find out more.
Radiation Therapist Licenses
Some states require licensure. Visit the American Society of Radiologic Technicians (ASRT) website to see individual state requirements.
Radiation Therapist Training and Preparation
Once you have completed the radiation therapy program, it is time to prepare for the certification exam through the ARRT. This certification is not required in all states, but is highly recommended. Most employers prefer radiation therapists who have this certification.
Preparing for the exam can be done in many ways. Investing in an online practice question bank will help you understand and get used to the question format. Flashcards, practice tests and exam prep books are other useful tools to help you prepare. Many of these are available online or in your local bookstore. The ARRT website outlines the major categories of the exam, which can help you learn what is important to focus your studying on.
Was this article helpful?
@Raising Careers Inbox
Like this article? Sign up for our newsletter and we’ll send you a summary of everything new on Raising Careers once a week.