Radiation Therapists

Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed

Provide radiation therapy to patients as prescribed by a radiation oncologist according to established practices and standards. Duties may include reviewing prescription and diagnosis; acting as liaison with physician and supportive care personnel; preparing equipment, such as immobilization, treatment, and protection devices; and maintaining records, reports, and files. May assist in dosimetry procedures and tumor localization.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $105,310/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$80,560$156,710

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +1.9% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.

About 900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills

Reading ComprehensionActive ListeningCritical ThinkingSocial PerceptivenessOperations MonitoringSpeakingCoordinationService OrientationMonitoringWriting

Top knowledge areas

Customer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageMedicine and DentistryPhysicsMathematicsEducation and TrainingComputers and ElectronicsTherapy and Counseling

Core tasks

• Position patients for treatment with accuracy, according to prescription.

• Administer prescribed doses of radiation to specific body parts, using radiation therapy equipment according to established practices and standards.

• Follow principles of radiation protection for patient, self, and others.

• Review prescription, diagnosis, patient chart, and identification.

• Conduct most treatment sessions independently, in accordance with the long-term treatment plan and under the general direction of the patient's physician.

• Enter data into computer and set controls to operate or adjust equipment or regulate dosage.

• Check radiation therapy equipment to ensure proper operation.

• Observe and reassure patients during treatment and report unusual reactions to physician or turn equipment off if unexpected adverse reactions occur.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Radiation Therapists?

The median pay for Radiation Therapists is $105,310 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Radiation Therapists?

Employment for Radiation Therapists is projected to change +1.9% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.

What education is typically required for Radiation Therapists?

Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.

How many job openings are there each year for Radiation Therapists?

About 900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.