Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
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-generatedKey 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
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- MEDITECH software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- eClinicalWorks EHR software
Technology Skills
- Calendar and scheduling software
- Database software
- Email software
- Medical procedure coding software
- Patient medical record software
- Spreadsheet software
- Word processing software
Tools & Equipment
- 3D sonography equipment
- A-Mode ultrasound machines
- Cardiac ultrasound equipment
- Color Doppler ultrasound equipment
- Continuous-wave ultrasound equipment
- Desktop computers
- Evacuated blood collection tubes
- High frequency transducers