Explore Careers

X-ray Technicians

Explore Careers

X-ray Technicians

Health Science
Enlisted Role

Service Branches with this Role

  • Army logo
  • Navy logo
  • Air Force logo

What do X-ray Technicians do in the Military?

X-ray technicians utilize medical radiology equipment and assist radiologists in performing radiographic procedures including mammographic examinations, fluoroscopic examinations, vascular procedures, and computerized axial tomographic examinations (CAT scans).

Where do X-ray Technicians work?

X-ray technicians work in hospitals and clinics. In combat situations, they may work in mobile field hospitals. They follow strict safety procedures to minimize exposure to radiation.

How much do they make?

Median Military Salary

This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$107,887

Military Salary Range

This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$30,553 - $356,274

How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary

Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.

  • Set based on rank and years of service.
  • Paid every month.

Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.

  • Tax-free payments.
  • Varies by location and family status.

Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.

  • Based on specialized roles.
  • Varies by position and duty.

What training do X-ray Technicians gain in the Military?

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. X-ray technicians in the Military will gain skills through classroom study and on-the-job experience. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Operation of diagnostic imaging equipment
  • Radioactive isotope therapy
  • Image processing
  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Patient care in radiology
  • Medical ethics and law
  • Principles of radiation protection
  • Field radiography

Military Training for Enlisted Service members

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.

What skills help X-ray Technicians succeed?

  • Ability to follow strict standards and procedures
  • Interest in activities requiring accuracy and attention to detail
  • Interest in helping others
  • Interest in working in a medical environment
  • Listening and communication skills

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Medical Assistants
  • Medical Dosimetrists
  • Radiologic Technologists and Technicians
  • Radiologists
  • Endoscopy Technicians
  • Neurodiagnostic Technologists
  • Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists

Interested? Take Your Next Step!