Mammography Technologist: Job Description, Qualifications, and Salary

Role

Mammography technologists (mammographers) position patients and operate specialized X-ray equipment to produce breast images (mammograms) for cancer screening and diagnosis. They work closely with radiologists.

Key Responsibilities

• Patient preparation and positioning
• Equipment operation, maintenance, and quality control
• Ensuring proper radiation dose and image quality
• Image processing and preliminary review
• Communicating findings to radiologists
• Patient education on breast health and follow-up
• Maintaining privacy, confidentiality, and regulatory compliance (MQSA)

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Accredited mammography program completion
• ARRT certification (or NMQAP)
• State licensure where required
• Clinical experience preferred
• Strong communication, attention to detail, teamwork

Certification Maintenance

ARRT requires continuing education every 2 years.

Salary

Median annual wage: $65,060 (varies by experience, location, employer).