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Your role as a radiographer
As a radiographer, you'll use imaging equipment like x-ray machines, CT (computed tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scanners.
You'll take images of people's bones and organs that help to diagnose and treat different illnesses and conditions.
How a radiographer is different from a sonographer
Radiographers and sonographers both use medical imaging to diagnose patients. The main difference is the type of equipment they use. Radiographers use x-ray (ionizing electromagnetic radiation) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). Sonographers use ultrasound (high frequency sound waves). Radiographers often do further study to also become sonographers.
What your day might look like
Our radiographers work in emergency departments, hospital wards, operating theatres, specialist clinics and BreastScreen Queensland. You'll see patients all day and care for them while you take images.
You'll be scanning to look for things like:
- broken bones and injuries
- masses in the body, like tumours or cysts
- signs of illness, such as chest infections or an inflamed appendix
Depending on where you work, you could also take images to help plan cancer treatments.
Some of your work might be during extended hours and you might sometimes need to be on call.
Your role will also involve a lot of patient care. You'll make sure patients are safe, comfortable and are in the right position for each image. You'll also be responsible for making sure the images you take are clear which enables the doctor to make an accurate diagnosis.
Learn more about working as a radiographer on Your Career.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in radiography or medical imaging accredited by the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia.
Professional registration
Registered with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia
Pay and benefits
Your pay rate and benefits will depend on your role and your pay point. In your first year you’ll start at health professional grade HP3, pay point 1. You’ll get a different rate if you’re in a higher level role.
We also offer:
- regular wage increases
- a superannuation rate of 12.75%
- a supportive workplace with flexible working arrangements
- several types of leave
- extra annual leave days for some roles
- salary packaging
- help with ongoing professional development costs.
If you're moving to start a new job with us, you may be able to get help with moving and travel costs.
Rural and remote opportunities
You may also be able to get financial incentives and other benefits if you work in rural and remote areas.
Read about our opportunities for rural allied health careers.
Professional growth
Continuing professional development (CPD) is an essential part of being a radiographer. You'll have opportunities to build CPD points through:
- rural experience
- research
- education and training with the Clinical Skills Development Service and the Cunningham Centre.
Career paths
Doing more training or qualifications after you become a radiographer can lead to other roles.
- Allied health rural generalist
- Sonographer
- Digital imaging systems management
- Clinical educator
- Radiation therapist
If you plan to do more study, ask your training provider if your past studies can count towards a higher qualification.