How to become a diagnostic medical sonographer
Produce ultrasonic recordings of internal organs for use by physicians. Includes vascular technologists.
Steps to get there
Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
What diagnostic medical sonographers do
- Decide which images to include, looking for differences between healthy and pathological areas.
- Operate ultrasound equipment to produce and record images of the motion, shape, and composition of blood, organs, tissues, or bodily masses, such as fluid accumulations.
- Observe and care for patients throughout examinations to ensure their safety and comfort.
- Select appropriate equipment settings and adjust patient positions to obtain the best sites and angles.
- Coordinate work with physicians or other healthcare team members, including providing assistance during invasive procedures.
- Prepare patient for exam by explaining procedure, transferring patient to ultrasound table, scrubbing skin and applying gel, and positioning patient properly.
Skills that matter most
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Writing
- Monitoring
- Active Learning
- Learning Strategies
Is diagnostic medical sonographer a good career?
On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 89% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.
Where it pays most
- California $128,530
- Hawaii $124,430
- Washington $121,340
- Oregon $120,220
- District of Columbia $112,020
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers salary by state and city
Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.