Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Duties and Responsibilities: Nuclear Medicine Technologists prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals to detect and treat disease.  They then position equipment over patients to make images.  These pictures allow physicians to identify abnormal areas.  This helps in diagnosing illness.

Nuclear medicine technologists explain these tests to the patients and administer radioactive doses by mouth or injection.  They also perform laboratory tests on tissue samples.  They must follow strict safety regulations due to the dangers of radiation effects to their bodies and organs.

Their work is performed in specialized hospital departments, clinics, or laboratories.  Level of work performed varies depending upon level of training and education completed.

Average Salary: $28,000-$42,000

Education: Students should take the most challenging science, math and English courses available in high school. Nuclear Medicine Technology Training programs vary from one to four years.  They must have at least a bachelor’s degree.