Radiologists
On the Job
Radiologists diagnose conditions using x-rays and radioactive materials. They interpret results from tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computer tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), nuclear cardiology treadmill studies, mammography, or ultrasounds. They may treat patients.
Typical Work Tasks
People who work in this career often:
- Determine protocols for medical procedures.
- Prepare reports summarizing patient diagnostic or care activities.
- Record patient medical histories.
- Collect medical information from patients, family members, or other medical professionals.
- Conduct research to increase knowledge about medical issues.
- Gather medical information from patient histories.
- Administer anesthetics or sedatives to control pain.
- Administer cancer treatments.
- Administer medical substances for imaging or other procedures.
- Operate on patients to treat conditions.
Typical Working Conditions
- The importance of being accurate or exact.
- Having telephone conversations.
- Working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions.
- Making decisions that impact co-workers or company results.
- Meeting strict deadlines.
- Working with a group or team.
- Exposure to radiation.
- Responsibility for others' health and safety.
- High levels of competition.
- Wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection.
- Sitting.

This page includes information from the O*NET 24.2 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Source: You can learn about our data sources in the About Us section.