2

Entry Level Echo Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Echo Tech information

What is an entry level echo tech?

An Entry Level Echo Tech, also known as an entry-level echocardiography technician or cardiac sonographer, is a healthcare professional who operates ultrasound equipment to create images of the heart (echocardiograms). These technicians help diagnose heart conditions by capturing and analyzing images under the supervision of experienced sonographers or physicians. Entry-level positions typically require completion of an accredited program in cardiac sonography or a related field, and may involve on-the-job training. They play a key role in patient care by providing crucial information used in diagnosing and treating cardiovascular diseases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level echo tech?

To thrive as an Entry Level Echo Tech, you need a basic understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and cardiac ultrasound principles, typically supported by a relevant associate degree or completion of an accredited echocardiography program. Familiarity with echocardiography machines, PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems), and sometimes ARDMS or CCI certification is important. Attention to detail, effective communication, and patient care skills help you deliver accurate results and establish trust with patients. These skills and qualifications ensure precise diagnostic imaging and contribute to effective patient care in a clinical setting.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level echo techs during their first year on the job?

Entry level Echo Techs often face challenges such as adapting to fast-paced clinical environments, learning to operate advanced echocardiography equipment, and accurately interpreting initial scan results under supervision. Building effective communication with patients and collaborating closely with cardiologists and other healthcare professionals can also be an adjustment. Over time, consistent practice, mentorship, and ongoing training help new Echo Techs gain confidence in their technical skills and patient interactions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Echo Tech jobs in California?

The most popular types of Echo Tech jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Echo Tech jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Echo Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Echo Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% As Needed, 33% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Echo Sonographer I - Per Diem - Cheng Lab, Heart Institute

Cedars Sinai

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$50.50 - $51.49/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 2 days ago


Cedars-Sinai rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 1,064 rated hospitals


Job description


The Echo Sonographer I is an entry level position that assists physicians in performing basic Echocardiographic imaging and other procedures. Performs ultrasound imaging technologies for cardiac patients in an in-patient and out-patient setting. Assists with detecting issues related to blood flow and heart ailments and escalates appropriately to physicians as they develop diagnoses and design patient treatment plans. Receives mentorship until able to exercise competency in the use of all related ultrasound equipment and imaging protocols. Responsible for maintaining a safe patient environment and ensures that the room and equipment are prepared, functional and stocked for assigned procedures.
Responsibilities
  • Performs only basic echocardiographic imaging procedures utilizing approved protocols per standards of practice for safety, speed, organization, precision and accuracy based upon the department's accrediting agency and/or department guidelines for exam protocols, adhering to department safety and productivity standards.
  • Performs preliminary interpretation of 2D/Doppler studies Pericardiocentesis, bubble, and contrast studies and creates preliminary reports to present to physician.
  • Provides standard patient and family education for procedure and preparation for test. Reviews patient's medical history, previews ultrasound images and prepares preliminary reports.
  • Assists physicians with echo imaging during pericardiocentesis.
  • Works in collaboration with interdisciplinary team, such as Attending/residents and clinicians and colleagues related to echocardiography procedures.
  • Enters patient data into ultrasound equipment accurately.
  • Receives mentorship and training to obtain working knowledge of all echocardiography diagnostics and equipment as appropriate to services provided.
  • Provides first pass assessment and evaluation of patients. Promptly reports critical findings to reading or the on-call physician.
  • Reviews and reports daily operational status of equipment. Cleans equipment after use and restores order of equipment. Ensures sterile protocols and radiation safety.
  • Performs other duties as determined collaboratively that are within the scope of practice of an echo sonographer and the health care institution's policies.
  • Provides recommendations on guidelines for laboratory operation and continually evaluates quality of diagnostic

Qualifications
Education
  • Vocational/Technical Diploma Graduate of an accredited ultrasound school - minimum

Experience
  • No experience required - minimum
  • 1 year Experience as a cardiac sonographer - preferred

Licenses and Certifications
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) - Upon Hire minimum BCLS certified
  • Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer - 1 Year minimum RDCS issued by American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), or
  • Registered Cardiac Sonographer - 1 Year minimum RCS issued by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI)

What Cedars-Sinai employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom