Produce ultrasonic recordings of internal organs for use by physicians. Includes vascular technologists.
SOC: 29-2032.00
Common Job Titles
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)
Sonographer
Ultrasonographer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate ultrasound equipment including 3D, Doppler, and cardiac sonography systems following established protocols to produce diagnostic-quality images across multiple anatomical systems.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze ultrasonic recordings and anatomical images applying knowledge of physics, anatomy, and pathophysiology to identify normal and abnormal findings.
Proficient
Hands-onManipulate transducers and patient positioning to optimize image quality while ensuring patient comfort and safety during examinations.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate image quality and diagnostic adequacy of ultrasound studies in real-time clinical settings, determining when additional views or sequences are required.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret physician orders and patient medical histories to select appropriate sonographic protocols and tailor examinations to clinical indications.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate patient-centered care with technical precision while managing time constraints and maintaining workflow efficiency in high-volume imaging environments.
Proficient
MindsetEngage with patients during ultrasound procedures demonstrating empathy and clear communication while explaining procedures and addressing concerns.
Developing
KnowledgeApply principles of ultrasound physics and instrumentation to adjust equipment parameters and troubleshoot technical artifacts during procedures.
Developing
KnowledgePrepare comprehensive sonographic reports and preliminary findings documentation using PACS and electronic health record systems for physician review and clinical decision-making.
Developing
Hands-onPerform vascular access procedures and patient preparation tasks including venipuncture and vital sign monitoring when required for contrast-enhanced studies.
Developing
KnowledgeAssess equipment functionality and image quality standards conducting quality control checks and coordinating maintenance to ensure regulatory compliance.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in interdisciplinary healthcare teams collaborating with physicians, nurses, and other professionals to optimize patient diagnosis and care pathways.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
86,460
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $64,760. 25th percentile: U.S. $78,080. 50th percentile: U.S. $89,340. 75th percentile: U.S. $103,630. 90th percentile: U.S. $123,170. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$64,760
10% of workers earn the following or more
$123,170
Workers on average earn
$92,550
+ 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 Service4.5/5
English Language4.1/5
Physics3.7/5
Medicine and Dentistry3.6/5
Administrative3.3/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
