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Entry Level Sonographer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Sonographer information

See Virginia salary details

$753

$2.1K

$3.1K

How much do entry level sonographer jobs pay per week?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average weekly pay for entry level sonographer in Virginia is $2,098.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,544.23 and $2,611.54 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level sonographer?

An entry level sonographer is a healthcare professional who uses specialized equipment to create images of the body's internal organs and tissues, typically as part of a diagnostic process. They are often recent graduates of an accredited sonography program or have limited experience in the field. Entry level sonographers work under the supervision of more experienced sonographers or physicians, performing basic ultrasound examinations and assisting with patient care. Their responsibilities include preparing patients for procedures, operating ultrasound machines, and maintaining patient records. With more experience and training, entry level sonographers can advance to more specialized or independent roles.

What does an entry level sonographer do?

As an entry-level sonographer, your duties involve operating ultrasound equipment in a medical setting such as a hospital or clinic. You operate the ultrasound machine to obtain an image from inside a patient. A physician then uses your ultrasound images to make or rule out a diagnosis. As an entry-level position sonographer, your primary responsibilities are to support senior sonographers, take part in further on-the-job training opportunities, and to learn more fully the expectations and procedures required of your position.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Sonographer, you need a foundational understanding of anatomy, physiology, and ultrasound technology, typically acquired through an accredited sonography program and ARDMS certification. Familiarity with ultrasound imaging equipment, PACS systems, and patient record management software is essential. Strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and compassion are important soft skills for interacting with patients and healthcare teams. These abilities ensure accurate imaging, effective patient care, and successful collaboration in clinical environments.

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

Entry level sonographers often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced clinical environment, mastering the operation of various ultrasound machines, and developing effective patient communication skills. Balancing accuracy and efficiency while producing high-quality images can be demanding, especially when working with patients who have complex medical conditions. Additionally, new sonographers must quickly learn to collaborate with radiologists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care.

What is the difference between Entry Level Sonographer vs Diagnostic Medical Sonographer?

AspectEntry Level SonographerDiagnostic Medical Sonographer
CredentialsCertification often required, such as ARDMS or CCISame certifications typically required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, outpatient centersHospitals, clinics, outpatient facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with imaging procedures, basic patient prepPerforming diagnostic ultrasound exams, analyzing images
Experience LevelEntry-level, on-the-job trainingVaries, but often requires some experience or certification

Both roles involve performing ultrasound imaging and require similar certifications. An Entry Level Sonographer typically assists in procedures and gains hands-on experience, while a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer performs more advanced imaging and analysis. The main difference lies in experience and responsibility level, with the entry-level position serving as a stepping stone to full diagnostic roles.

How much do entry level sonographers make?

Entry-level sonographers in Florida typically earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the healthcare facility. Starting salaries may be lower but can increase with additional skills and certifications such as RDMS or RVT.

Is it hard to get hired as an entry level sonographer?

Getting hired as an entry-level sonographer can be competitive, but having an accredited educational program, certification such as the ARDMS, and relevant clinical experience can improve job prospects. Employers often seek candidates with strong technical skills and the ability to operate ultrasound equipment effectively. Entry-level positions may require patience and persistence, especially in competitive job markets.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sonographer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Sonographer jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Sonographer jobs in Virginia?

For Entry Level Sonographer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Sonographer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Sonographer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Sonographer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,129 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

Wage Radiology Diagnostic Sonographer

Virginia Jobs

Charlottesville, VA โ€ข On-site

$32.98 - $49.18/hr

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Jobs in this job family are responsible for performing diagnostic and therapeutic imaging procedures to support patient care, clinical research, and medical education. These roles utilize advanced imaging technologies-such as X-rays, MRI, CT scans, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, and interventional radiology-to produce high-quality images that aid in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of medical conditions.
These roles focus on using ultrasound technology to produce images of the body's internal structures, such as organs, tissues, and blood vessels. These images are essential for diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions.
Individual contributors with responsibility in a clinical discipline or specialty. Typically involves diagnosing, treating, and caring for patients, and often include face-to-face interactions with patients. May also spend some time designing and implementing clinical programs, policies, and services using specialized knowledge and skills. Specialty license or certification required which is acquired through advanced education, training and/or experience. This career stream will be most commonly applied to patient care and/or scientific/laboratory technologist jobs.
Entry-level position typically requiring little to no prior knowledge or experience and require vocational or technical education. Work is routine or follows standard procedures. Work is closely supervised. Communicates information that requires little explanation or interpretation
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Education: Graduate of accredited program in appropriate area of specialty as required by position. Must have Certification from ARDMS or CCI.
Experience: Experience preferred.
Licensure: American Heart Associate (AHA) Health Care Provider BLS certification required; additional requirements specified by position.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Job requires standing for prolonged periods, frequently bending/stooping, reaching (overhead, extensive, and repetitive); Repetitive motion: (computer keyboard). Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills; Attention to detail and ability to write legibly; Ability to lift/push/pull 50 - 100lbs. May be exposed to cold, dust, noise, radiation, blood/body fluids and infectious disease.
The pay range for this role is $32.98 - $49.18 hourly. Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.
UVA Health is a world-class Magnet Recognized academic medical center and health system with a level 1 trauma center. 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report "Best Hospitals" guide rates UVA Health University Medical Center as "High Performing" in 5 adult specialties and 14 conditions/procedures. We are one of 70 National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers. UVA Health Children's is named by 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report as the best children's hospital in Virginia with 9 specialties ranked among the best in the nation. Our footprint also encompasses 3 community hospitals and an integrated network of primary and specialty care clinics throughout Charlottesville, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, and beyond.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .
Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer