Radiologic technologists have the option to specialize in computed tomography, or CT. CT technologists are experts in conducting CT scan procedures, which is a type of x-ray imaging that produces three-dimensional images of bones, organs, and tissues. These images are incredibly important in identifying hidden or hard-to-find abnormalities, and help clinicians provide the best care to their patients. They work in a number of different facility types, such as hospitals and imaging centers.
At Nomad Health, we have more CT tech open positions than any other allied health profession.* We want to help CT techs find jobs that match their experience, interests, and financial goals. Our travel CT techs get access to a robust set of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and malpractice insurance. In addition, we offer a 401(k) with employer matching after a year, as well as reimbursements for travel, qualifying certifications, and scrubs.
While Nomad is recruiter-free, you’re never alone. Our expert team of Nomad Navigators are here to help you every step of the way, from the application process all the way through on-the-job questions or concerns.
*Subject to change. Based off of Nomad Health data taken on November 30, 2023
In order to become a travel CT technologist with Nomad Health, you want your ARRT (CT) certification, ARRT (R) certification, and a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Each job will have a minimum speciality experience requirement, such as 12 months experience within the last three years, so make sure to check the job description. Your preferred start date generally needs to be within six weeks of the job’s listed start date, and you’ll also need to pass Nomad’s radiology technologist skills checklist. As a travel allied health professional, it’s also incredibly important to make sure you’re certified to work in the state you’re applying to.
Travel CT tech job requirements may vary based on state and facility regulations. To know the exact requirements of a CT travel job you’re interested in, we recommend you check with each facility and the state regulatory board of where you intend to work.
Like with other allied health professions, the path to becoming a CT tech can vary, but generally includes schooling, certifications, and on-the-job experience. To pursue certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, which is strongly recommended for increased job opportunities, you’ll need at least an associate’s degree and have completed an ARRT-approved educational program.
The main certification body for CT technologists is the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, or ARRT. Travel CT techs start with their primary Radiography (R) certification. To qualify, you must meet their education requirements (have earned an associate’s degree or higher, and have completed an ARRT-approved program in the discipline you’re pursuing), meet ARRT ethics requirements, and pass an exam.
After earning your primary (R) certification, you can pursue your postprimary computed tomography (CT) certification, which includes education, clinical experience, and ethics requirements, as well as an exam. In addition, there are opportunities for those that hold their ARRT (R) to work in CT if they have cross-training experience and the facility they’re applying to accepts the experience without an ARRT (CT).
As a travel CT technologist, you are responsible for preparing patients for the scan, initiating the scan, and accurately evaluating the resulting scan images. According to general guidelines set by the ARRT certified CT techs may perform the following tasks:
It’s also important to educate your patients about the procedure, and make them feel comfortable if they express any discomfort. The ARRT outlines the following as primary responsibilities of CT tech jobs.
Travel CT tech jobs involve direct patient care—this includes but is not limited to: patient assessment and preparation, as well as contrast and medication.
Travel CT tech jobs require you to be familiar with radiation safety, appropriate and safe dosage, and radiation protection.
Travel CT tech jobs expect you to be familiar with elements of image production including image formation, image evaluation, and archiving.
There are different procedures for different parts of the body. Travel CT tech jobs require you to be able to demonstrate proficiency in head, spine, and musculoskeletal imaging.
A CT scan can be a stressful experience. It’s possible that a patient may express discomfort. Part of travel CT tech jobs may be to educate your patients and their families about what to expect before, during, and after a CT scan, and provide reassurance and comfort.
There are a number of characteristics and interpersonal skills that can help you thrive as a travel CT technician.
As a type of travel radiology technician, you will be a part of a patient’s larger care team, and it’s critical that you can communicate with other healthcare providers. This allied health role is very hands-on with patients, so it’s also good if you can communicate well with your patients.
Chances are that you’ll work with a wide range of patients with different needs, especially as a traveling CT tech. It’s important to be comfortable and confident conducting different types of CT scans procedures. No two shifts will be the same!
There are a lot of exciting job options for aspiring travel CT techs. At Nomad Health, we work with CT techs all over the nation. Massachusetts, Texas, and Georgia are a few states that have the most open CT tech travel jobs here at Nomad Health.* While searching for jobs on our platform, you can filter your results by location, so you can find the city or state that fits what you’re looking for.
Massachusetts is a hotspot for travel CT tech jobs, driven by its prominent healthcare and academic institutions. The state's leading position in medical research and development creates abundant opportunities for travel CT tech jobs to thrive.
In Texas, the demand for travel CT tech jobs is soaring, fueled by the state's expanding healthcare sector. Cities like Austin and Dallas that have expansive healthcare systems and affordable living costs attract travel CT techs, making Texas an appealing destination for healthcare professionals.
Georgia's healthcare landscape, especially in Atlanta, is experiencing significant growth, creating numerous opportunities for travel CT tech jobs. The state's favorable economic growth and robust healthcare infrastructure make it an enticing destination for travel CT techs.
*States subject to change. Based on Nomad Health data taken on November 30, 2023.
At Nomad Health, the average CT technologist earns $2,605 a week, which includes a housing stipend.* There are a number of factors that may influence your take home pay, such as experience, number of certifications, demand, facility rates, and more. On the upper side, a CT scan technologist at Nomad can make up to $3,720.* When searching for jobs with Nomad, you can sort results by pay, so you can find the job that matches your financial goals.
*Based on Nomad Health job data November 22, 2023. Subject to change.