Travelers must live 50 miles outside of Sonora, CA
A Computed Tomography (CT) Technologist is a trained imaging professional who uses advanced CT scanners to produce cross-sectional images of patients’ bodies that help physicians diagnose disease, injuries, and other conditions. Duties generally include the following:
Typical Duties & Responsibilities
- Operate and maintain CT equipment safely and according to protocol to produce clear diagnostic images.
- Prepare and position patients appropriately for CT exams to ensure diagnostic quality.
- Administer contrast agents (oral or IV) under proper protocols and monitor patients for adverse reactions.
- Review images for quality before sending to radiologists for interpretation.
- Ensure patient safety and radiation protection standards are followed, including shielding and infection control.
- Record clinical activity and maintain logs in electronic medical records (EMR).
- Communicate clearly with physicians, nurses, co-workers, and patients; provide patient education when needed.
- Participate in department quality assurance and performance improvement activities.
- In some settings, especially hospitals, CT technologists may also assist with interventional procedures or collaborate in trauma/urgent imaging.
Required Qualifications in California
Education
- Graduate of an accredited radiologic technology program (often accredited by JRCERT).
- High school diploma or equivalent required as a minimum in many jobs, but most employers require radiologic tech schooling.
Licenses & Certification
- California Radiologic Technologist License (CRT) issued by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is required to practice as a technologist.
- Certification/Registration with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in Radiography (R) is typically required.
- ARRT CT certification (post-primary credential) is strongly preferred and sometimes required, depending on the employer.
- Many postings allow registry-eligible technologists to gain CT certification within 6–12 months of hire.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) (e.g., from American Heart Association) is usually required.
- Venipuncture certification (for contrast injection) is often required or must be obtained soon after hire.
- Note: California does not issue a separate state CT license — CT credentialing is through ARRT and state radiologic technologist licensure.
- Entry-level CT Technologist positions may accept trainees with limited CT experience (supervised clinical hours).
- Experienced CT Technologists usually require 1–3+ years of CT experience in hospital/clinical settings.
- Experience with trauma, advanced CT protocols (e.g., CTA), and emergency workflows is preferred by some employers.
Skills and Competencies
- Strong patient care and communication skills.
- Ability to follow safety, radiation protection, and infection prevention guidelines.
- Computer literacy, including PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems) and EMRs.
- Knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy and medical terminology.
- Good judgment and decision-making during imaging procedures.
Summary — Typical Hiring Qualifications (California)
Qualification Typical Requirement
- Education: Accredited radiologic technology program graduate
- State License: California Radiologic Technologist (CRT)
- National Certification: ARRT (R) required; ARRT-CT preferred/required
- BLS Required