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Cardiothoracic Radiology Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Cardiothoracic Radiology information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$66K

$233.1K

$412.4K

How much do cardiothoracic radiology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for cardiothoracic radiology in Chicago, IL is $233,097.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $179,900.00 and $278,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is cardiothoracic radiology?

Cardiothoracic radiology is a specialized branch of medical imaging focused on diagnosing and evaluating diseases of the heart, lungs, chest, and related structures. Cardiothoracic radiologists use imaging technologies such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI to assess conditions like heart disease, lung cancer, and other chest disorders. Their expertise helps guide treatment decisions, monitor disease progression, and assist in planning surgical procedures. These specialists often work closely with cardiologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cardiothoracic radiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cardiothoracic Radiologist, you need a medical degree, board certification in radiology, and specialized fellowship training in cardiothoracic imaging. Expertise with advanced imaging modalities like CT, MRI, and PACS, as well as familiarity with 3D reconstruction software, is essential. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with multidisciplinary teams are important soft skills in this field. These capabilities ensure accurate diagnosis, optimal patient management, and collaboration in complex clinical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by cardiothoracic radiologists in their daily work?

Cardiothoracic radiologists often encounter the challenge of interpreting complex imaging studies where subtle findings can significantly impact patient care. They must stay updated on rapidly evolving imaging technologies and protocols, while also managing a high volume of cases that require timely and precise reporting. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, such as cardiologists and thoracic surgeons, is essential for comprehensive patient management, and clear communication is critical when discussing imaging results that may influence urgent treatment decisions.

What is the difference between Cardiothoracic Radiology vs Thoracic Radiology?

AspectCardiothoracic RadiologyThoracic Radiology
CredentialsRadiologist with fellowship in Cardiothoracic ImagingRadiologist with fellowship in Thoracic Imaging
Work EnvironmentHospitals, specialized cardiac and thoracic centersHospitals, outpatient clinics, imaging centers
Industry UsageFocuses on heart and lung imaging, including cardiac MRI and CTFocuses on lung, chest, and mediastinal imaging, including lung cancer screening

Cardiothoracic Radiology and Thoracic Radiology share significant overlap, both involving imaging of the chest. However, Cardiothoracic Radiology emphasizes heart and lung imaging, often requiring specialized cardiac imaging skills, while Thoracic Radiology broadly covers lung and chest structures. Both roles are vital in diagnosing thoracic diseases, but their focus areas and imaging techniques differ slightly.

What job categories do people searching Cardiothoracic Radiology jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Cardiothoracic Radiology jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Cardiothoracic Radiology job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $232,913 per year, or $112 per hour.

Chest Imaging Radiologists #RAD092a

The University of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$329K - $412K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


University Of Chicago rating

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Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

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Job description

Description
The Department of Radiology at the University of Chicago is expanding and seeking full-time faculty at any rank to join our Cardiothoracic Radiology Section. Appointees will have responsibilities encompassing the full gamut of adult cardiothoracic imaging.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join a world-class academic medical center that values both professional excellence and work-life balance. Remote clinical days are available weekly, and scheduling is thoughtfully designed to support personal well-being alongside clinical and academic success. Protected academic time and competitive base compensation are provided. Opportunities to earn additional income through a productivity-based incentive model are readily available. These positions are benefits-eligible. The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Appointees will be part of a vibrant academic community at UChicago Medicine, one of the world's top academic institutions. Duties will include teaching and supervising trainees and students, as well as scholarly activity. The role includes participation in interdisciplinary conferences and teaching of medical students, residents, and fellows. Numerous opportunities exist for collaborative research within the University and with community partners, including active programs in artificial intelligence, quantitative imaging, and imaging informatics with direct clinical translation.
UChicago Medicine serves as a Level 1 Trauma Center and a national referral destination for complex cardiothoracic conditions, including thoracic oncology, transplantation, and interstitial lung diseases. We are home to a highly respected lung cancer screening program. With over 80 full-time faculty, the Department of Radiology fosters innovation in basic, translational, and clinical research in a collegial and collaborative environment. A tradition of excellence in patient care, education, and research, combined with the strengths of a leading academic institution, provides the foundation for a fulfilling career as an academic radiologist. Learn more at radiology.uchicago.edu.
Located on the University's historic Hyde Park campus-just south of downtown Chicago and steps from Lake Michigan-our location offers the best of city living in a dynamic and diverse neighborhood. Chicago is a world-class city known for its culture, cuisine, and connectivity.
Prior to the start of employment, qualified applicants must: 1) have a medical doctorate or equivalent, 2) hold or be eligible for medical licensure in the State of Illinois and the State of Indiana, 3) be Board certified or eligible in Radiology, and 4) have completed a Fellowship in Cardiothoracic Imaging or equivalent.
To be considered, those interested must apply through The University of Chicago's Academic Recruitment job board, which uses Interfolio to accept applications: https://apply.interfolio.com/181652 . Applicants must upload a CV including bibliography and cover letter. Review of applications ends when the positions are filled.
For instructions on the Interfolio application process, please visit http://tiny.cc/InterfolioHelp.

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