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Entry Level Radiology Tech Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Radiology Tech information

See New Mexico salary details

$15

$44

$72

How much do entry level radiology tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level radiology tech in New Mexico is $44.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.53 and $55.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Radiology Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Radiology Tech, you need a solid understanding of human anatomy, radiographic techniques, and safety protocols, usually acquired through an accredited radiologic technology program and ARRT certification. Familiarity with digital imaging systems, PACS, and X-ray equipment is crucial for daily operations. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and patient care skills help you provide a positive experience and ensure accurate imaging. These skills and qualities are important because they support patient safety, diagnostic accuracy, and smooth workflow in clinical environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Radiology Tech vs Radiologic Technologist?

AspectEntry Level Radiology TechRadiologic Technologist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certification examHigh school diploma, certification or associate degree, licensing
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, imaging centersHospitals, outpatient centers, physician offices
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with imaging procedures, operate imaging equipmentPerform diagnostic imaging, prepare patients, maintain equipment
Experience LevelEntry-level, on-the-job trainingTypically requires some experience or certification

In summary, Entry Level Radiology Techs are often new to the field with basic certifications and assist in imaging procedures, while Radiologic Technologists usually have additional certifications or degrees, more responsibilities, and broader work environments. Both roles are essential in medical imaging but differ mainly in experience and qualifications.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level radiology techs when starting in a hospital setting?

Entry level radiology techs often find it challenging to adjust to the fast-paced environment of a hospital, where they must quickly learn to balance efficiency with patient care. Adapting to different imaging equipment and protocols, as well as staying organized while managing multiple exams and patient schedules, can be demanding. Additionally, new techs must develop strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare staff. Over time, gaining experience and asking for feedback can help ease this transition and build confidence.

What does an entry level radiology tech do?

An entry level radiology tech, also known as a radiologic technologist, is responsible for performing diagnostic imaging examinations such as X-rays on patients. They work under the supervision of experienced radiologists and ensure that imaging procedures are conducted safely and accurately. Their duties include preparing patients, operating imaging equipment, following safety protocols to minimize radiation exposure, and maintaining patient records. They play a key role in helping doctors diagnose and treat medical conditions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Radiology Tech jobs in New Mexico? The most popular types of Radiology Tech jobs in New Mexico are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Radiology Tech jobs in New Mexico? For Entry Level Radiology Tech jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Radiology Tech jobs in New Mexico look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Radiology Tech jobs in New Mexico are:
What cities in New Mexico are hiring for Entry Level Radiology Tech jobs? Cities in New Mexico with the most Entry Level Radiology Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Radiology Tech job openings in New Mexico as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,933 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Radiography)

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Albuquerque, NM โ€ข On-site

$54K/yr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

The Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (DRT) positions are assigned to New Mexico Veterans Hospital, Radiology service line within the Raymond G. Murphy VA Hospital. This facility is located in Albuquerque, NM. We are currently looking to fill one position.
Qualifications:Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Basic Requirements:
  • United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
  • English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and7407(d).
  • Certification. All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R). Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), [or Mammography (M) duties performed independently, as applicable]. Advanced certification indicates that the incumbent [can operate independently] and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination. [In modalities that require advanced certification; to support their continued development, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist.
  • Exception for Non-Certified, Entry Level Candidates: Non-certified DRTs who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for ARRT (R) certification may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate DRT under the authority of 38 U.S.C. 7405(c)(2)(B). The appointing official may waive the requirement of certification for a period not to exceed two years for a DRT that provides care under the supervision of a certified DRT at or above the full performance level. This exception only applies at the GS-5 entry level technician. For grade levels
    above the entry level, the candidate must be certified. Temporary appointments of non-certified DRTs may not be extended beyond two years or converted to a new temporary appointment.
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
Grade Determinations:
GS-05
Experience or Education:
None beyond the basic requirements.
GS-06
Experience or Education: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level or the successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging. Transcripts required proof if using education to qualify at this grade level.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all the following KSAs in there application packet:
  1. Knowledge of basic technique standards for minimum radiographic exposure.
  2. Knowledge of anatomy and positioning.
  3. Knowledge of all patient safety procedures.
  4. Knowledge of radiographic producing equipment.
  5. Ability to learn basic computer functions.
GS-07:
Experience or Education: At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level; or the successful completion of one full academic year of graduate education leading to a degree in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging; or successful completion of an advanced registry program, with certification, in addition to a 4-year baccalaureate degree program in radiography or other directly related field to diagnostic radiology/imaging. Education may relate to the duties of a specific position or to the occupation but must be appropriate for the position being filled. Transcripts required proof if using education to qualify at this grade level.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all the following KSAs in there application packet:
  1. Knowledge of the technical adequacy of the digital image, including the ability to adjust the image quality in the digital system.
  2. Knowledge of different contrast material required for the requested study.
  3. Knowledge of radiation protection standards, minimum radiographic exposure techniques, appropriate beam limitation to anatomical area, and employing lead shielding when performing standard radiographic and fluoroscopic procedures.
  4. Knowledge of computed radiography, CR readers and Digital Imaging systems.
  5. Knowledge of PACS and basic computer skills.
GS-08:
Experience:
At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level.
Demonstrate Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all the following KSAs in there application packet:
  1. Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines.
  2. Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to adjust as needed.
  3. Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results.
  4. Ability to monitor patient's physiological changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed.
  5. Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers.
  6. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest.
Preferred Experience: One year of related experience to duties listed in duties section above.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-8. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS 5 to 8
Physical Requirements: Moderate lifting, 15-44 pounds; Light carrying, under 15 pounds; straight pulling (2 hours); pushing ( 4 hours); reaching above shoulders; use of fingers; both hands required; walking (4 hours); standing (4 hours); kneeling (2 hours); repeated bending ( 2 hours); Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20 and to 20/40 in the other; both eyes required; hearing (aid maybe permitted); hearing without aid; mental and emotional stability.Education:Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiology technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from [other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE).] TRANSCRIPTS REQUIRED.
Transcripts required proof if using education to qualify at grade levels 6 and 7.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER