Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians
Conduct tests on pulmonary or cardiovascular systems of patients for diagnostic, therapeutic, or research purposes. May conduct or assist in electrocardiograms, cardiac catheterizations, pulmonary functions, lung capacity, and similar tests.
SOC: 29-2031.00
Common Job Titles
Cardio Tech (Cardiovascular Technician)Cardiology TechnicianCardiovascular Technologist (CVT)Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate electrocardiography equipment and cardiac catheterization systems during diagnostic and therapeutic cardiovascular procedures, following established clinical protocols.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform cardiac catheterization procedures and electrophysiology studies in interventional laboratories, maintaining sterile technique and patient safety.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate cardiac rhythm patterns and waveforms from monitoring equipment during stress tests, Holter monitoring, and continuous telemetry, recognizing critical arrhythmias.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate equipment functionality and procedural compliance with regulatory standards through routine quality control checks and adherence to infection control protocols.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate patient-centered care principles with technical procedural requirements when managing patients during invasive cardiovascular interventions and emergency situations.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate sterile field preparation, instrument setup, and procedural timing, collaborating with physicians and nursing staff during complex interventional cardiology procedures.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze cardiovascular diagnostic data including hemodynamic measurements and cardiac imaging to identify abnormalities and ensure data quality for physician interpretation.Developing
- MindsetEngage patients during cardiovascular testing procedures, explaining procedures, addressing concerns, and ensuring patient comfort throughout diagnostic examinations.Developing
- Hands-onCalibrate hemodynamic monitoring systems, fluoroscopes, and pressure transducers to ensure accurate measurement and imaging quality before each procedure.Developing
- KnowledgeApply radiation safety principles and contrast media protocols during fluoroscopic procedures, minimizing patient and staff exposure while maintaining diagnostic quality.Developing
- KnowledgeExplain cardiovascular test results and procedural findings to patients and healthcare team members, using appropriate medical terminology and lay language.Developing
- KnowledgeApply knowledge of cardiac anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology when selecting appropriate imaging views and interpreting hemodynamic data during diagnostic procedures.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
61,180
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $37,890 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $108,900 |
| Workers on average earn | $72,890 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.3/5
- Medicine and Dentistry3.9/5
- English Language3.9/5
- Computers and Electronics3.3/5
- Education and Training3.3/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
JavaScriptMEDITECH softwareMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft Word
Technology Skills
Database softwareDiagnostic image review softwareDigital Imaging Communications in Medicine DICOM-compatible image acquisition and integration software productsElectronic medical record EMR softwareHypertext preprocessor PHPInformation systems integration softwareInternet or intranet image distribution softwarePractice management software PMS
Tools & Equipment
3, 4, and 5 stopcock manifoldsActivated clotting time ACT lab equipmentAngiojetsArterial line stop-cocksAutomated external defibrillators AEDAutomatic implantable cardioverter defibrillator AICD implantsBalloon cathetersBird's nest inferior vena caval filters