This post presents detailed information on the radiographer job description, including the key duties, tasks, and responsibilities they commonly perform, as well as templates employers can use.
It also highlights the major requirements that you may be expected to fulfill to be hired for the radiographer role by most recruiters/employers.
What Does a Radiographer Do?
Radiographers are health care professionals who operate diagnostic equipment to examine patients for an illness or injury.
The radiographer job description involves using technological equipment such as ultrasound, X-ray, and MRI to diagnose a disease.
It also entails developing treatment plans and overseeing the administration of radiotherapy for patients.
In performing their duties, radiographers collaborate with oncologists and physicians to plan radiotherapy treatment for cancer patients.
They operate CT scanners, nuclear dyes, X-rays, and fluoroscope to obtain radiographic images of patients.
These images are used to identify medical conditions such as diseases or injuries.
Radiographers usually evaluate patient condition prior to radiotherapy to determine the suitable radiographic technique for treatment.
Their role also involves interacting with patients to offer them psychological support and reassurance.
They also explain to them the details of a radiographic procedure as well as provide answers to their inquiries.
As part of their responsibilities, radiographers correctly position patients for imaging.
They set accurate radiation levels in accordance with established standards, and also obtain patient consent prior to diagnostic imaging to fulfill legal requirements.
Usually, radiographers’ work description entails ensuring compliance with established safety regulations and procedures when operating radiation equipment in order to prevent ill-exposure to ionizing radiation.
They develop films and process digital images to obtain high quality radiographs which are presented to physicians for interpretation.
Recording and storing of patients’ examination results, ensuring compliance with Data Protection Act and Patient Confidentiality codes is also part of radiographers’ description.
To fulfill their role, radiographers inspect diagnostic equipment to identify faults and see that they are fixed.
They also monitor patients during and after radiation to ensure proper response to treatment.
To enter the radiographer career requires having an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in radiology, radiography, or sonography.
Some of the qualities needed to be effective on the job include attention to details, IT skills, and teamwork ability.
Radiographer Job Description Example
Radiographers perform various functions in their effort to perfectly diagnose patients’ diseases.
Here is an example of a typical radiographer job description, consisting of major duties, tasks, and responsibilities commonly assigned to the role in most firms:
- Evaluate patients’ medical condition and history to determine most suitable radiographic technique for diagnosis
- Interact with patients to offer them psychological support and address their concerns regarding an imaging procedure
- Adjust diagnostic equipment to deliver accurate amount of radiation to patients
- Operate complex medical instruments such as MRIs, CT scanners, X-ray, ultrasound, and several other imaging devices
- Liaise with oncologists and physicians to plan treatment for cancer patients
- Direct and supervise the activities of radiography assistants and trainee radiographers
- Maintain proper records of patient details ensuring confidentiality of sensitive information
- Follow up on patients after treatment to track the progress of recovery and ensure patients show no signs of radiation side effect
- Explain to patients and their family the details of a procedure and ways to manage possible side effects
- Regularly inspect diagnostic equipment to ensure they are functional and operate efficiently
- Assist oncologists and physicians during complex radiological examinations
- Ensure compliance with health and safety guidelines to minimize risk of exposure to ionizing radiation
- Correctly position patients prior to X-ray imaging in order to obtain high quality films
- Use portable devices to conduct diagnostic scans on patients who can’t move to the radiology unit.
Requirements – Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge – for Radiographer Job
If you are interesting in working as a radiographer and want to know the requirements you need to meet to be considered for the job by most employers, then check out the following points:
- Education and Training: To become a radiographer, you need an Associate’s degree in radiologic technology, or a Bachelor’s degree in radiography/sonography. Certification by ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) or ARDMS (American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers) is usually required for the job. Radiographers are also required to fulfill state requirements for obtaining a license, which involves passing a licensing exam
- Attention to details: Radiographers are able to deliver accurate amounts of radiation to patients during diagnosis and therapy
- IT Skills: They are proficient in operating computerized machines such as MRIs and Ultrasound equipment
- Teamwork Ability: They are adept to working with other health professionals such as oncologists and physicians to develop treatment plans for patients.
Radiographer Job Description Templates
Here are radiographer job description templates employers can simply edit and use in their job postings to attract the best talents to their companies:
TEMPLATE 1.
Position Title: Radiographer
Reports To: Radiology Supervisor / Imaging Manager / Chief Technologist
Location: [Hospital, Clinic, or Imaging Center Location]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
Company Overview
[Your Company Name] is a leading healthcare organization committed to providing high-quality diagnostic imaging services using state-of-the-art technology and compassionate patient care. Our radiology team works closely with physicians and specialists to support accurate diagnosis and treatment across a wide range of medical conditions. We value professionalism, safety, precision, and patient-centered service.
Position Overview
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Radiographer to perform diagnostic imaging examinations, ensure high-quality radiographs, and provide excellent patient care throughout the imaging process. The Radiographer is responsible for operating imaging equipment, preparing patients, following safety protocols, and assisting radiologists in producing accurate diagnostic results.
The ideal candidate has strong technical expertise, a compassionate approach, and a commitment to maintaining patient comfort and safety.
Key Responsibilities
Diagnostic Imaging
- Perform high-quality radiographic examinations using X-ray, fluoroscopy, or other imaging equipment.
- Follow imaging protocols to ensure clear, accurate, and diagnostic-quality images.
- Position patients correctly and adjust equipment settings for optimal imaging results.
Patient Care & Preparation
- Greet patients, verify identity, and explain imaging procedures clearly.
- Prepare patients for imaging, including positioning, immobilization, and shielding.
- Ensure patient comfort, privacy, and safety throughout the imaging process.
- Assist patients with mobility challenges or special needs.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow radiation safety standards and ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) guidelines.
- Use protective equipment and maintain safe exposure levels for patients and staff.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, hospital policies, and imaging protocols.
Equipment Operation & Maintenance
- Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot imaging equipment and computers.
- Report equipment malfunctions or safety hazards promptly.
- Follow proper cleaning, maintenance, and calibration procedures.
Documentation & Administrative Tasks
- Maintain accurate patient records and update imaging systems (PACS/RIS).
- Enter procedure codes, scan details, and required documentation into EMR/PACS.
- Ensure proper labeling and storage of images for interpretation by radiologists.
Collaboration & Communication
- Communicate effectively with radiologists, physicians, nurses, and technologists.
- Assist radiologists during advanced imaging procedures as needed.
- Provide updates to referring providers and support smooth workflow operations.
Quality Assurance
- Participate in quality control checks and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Monitor imaging quality and assist in developing improved procedures.
- Follow infection-control protocols and maintain clean, organized imaging rooms.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong technical skills in operating radiographic imaging equipment.
- Excellent patient care skills, communication, and bedside manner.
- Ability to follow precise imaging protocols and safety procedures.
- Good critical thinking and troubleshooting abilities.
- Ability to lift or assist patients and stand for long periods.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.
Education & Experience Requirements
- Associate degree or certificate in Radiologic Technology required.
- Current ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) certification required.
- State radiography license or eligibility (varies by state).
- CPR/BLS certification required.
- 1–2 years of imaging experience preferred but not required for entry-level roles.
Eligibility to Work in the United States
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring employer-sponsored work authorization now or in the future.
Work Environment
- Hospital, outpatient imaging center, or clinic setting.
- Exposure to radiation, infectious diseases, and medical equipment.
- Requires standing, lifting, bending, and assisting patients frequently.
- May require evening, weekend, holiday, or on-call shifts depending on facility needs.
Equal Opportunity Statement
[Your Company Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any protected category.
Additional Information
- Responsibilities may vary depending on facility type and imaging department needs.
- Reasonable accommodations may be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities.
- Pre-employment background checks and health screenings may be required.
How to Apply
Submit your resume, certifications, and application to [Insert Application Email or Job Link].
TEMPLATE 2.
Location: [City, State]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
About Us
[Your Company Name] is a leading healthcare provider offering high-quality diagnostic imaging services. We are seeking a skilled Radiographer to join our imaging team.
Job Summary
The Radiographer performs diagnostic imaging exams, ensures high-quality radiographs, provides patient care, and follows safety protocols. This role supports accurate diagnosis by operating imaging equipment and assisting radiologists.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform X-ray and other radiographic exams following imaging protocols
- Position patients properly and ensure safety and comfort
- Operate and maintain radiology equipment
- Follow radiation safety and ALARA guidelines
- Document procedures and update EMR/PACS systems
- Communicate with radiologists, nurses, and clinical staff
- Maintain clean, organized, and compliant imaging rooms
Qualifications
- ARRT certification required
- State radiographer license (as applicable)
- Associate degree or certificate in Radiologic Technology
- CPR/BLS certification
- Strong patient care, communication, and technical skills
- Ability to lift/assist patients and stand for long periods
Eligibility to Work in the U.S.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
How to Apply
Submit your resume to [Insert Email or Application Link].
Conclusion
This post provides detailed description of the radiographer job with templates that employers can use in designing a suitable work description for the role in hiring the best candidates and assigning duties to them.
The information in this post is also helpful to individuals interested in becoming radiographers for them to learn about the duties and responsibilities of the role, and so be able to prepare themselves for success in the career.
