Employment prospects for medical radiation technologists are expected to be above average in upcoming years. While most new job openings will arise due to job creation, there will be also be a considerable number of jobs available due to the need to replace experienced workers as they retire.

The growing demand for health-care services will increase employment opportunities for medical radiation technologists. Population growth, an aging population, and technological advances in diagnosis and treatment are contributing to the demand for X-rays, CT, MRI, nuclear medicine tests and other diagnostic procedures. Advances in radiation-based diagnostics and treatments may also increase the need for these services.

Industry sources report that there are currently worker shortages throughout the Lower Mainland. As well, there is also currently a higher need for casual workers in these professions on Vancouver Island.

Those seeking employment in hospital settings are advised that full-time positions are difficult to acquire when starting a career; however, there will be plenty of on-call and part-time opportunities.

Estimated Employment in 2010	3,500
Projected New Jobs (2010 to 2015)	1690
Projected Openings due to Retirements (2010 to 2015)	550

 

Future Job Prospects

Above Average

With sufficient work experience and training, medical radiation technologists can advance to supervisory positions in radiography, fluoroscopy, nuclear medicine, CT scan and MRI fields. Some may also pursue positions as clinical instructors or start their own businesses.