A sonographer, also called an ultrasound tech or diagnostic medical sonographer, uses specialized medical equipment to see inside the body. Those images, in the form of ultrasounds, are used by physicians to diagnose medical conditions, assess blood flow in cases of potential blood clots and other venous insufficiency, monitor pregnancies, and more.
A career in sonography is strong, and employment continues to grow as healthcare facilities continue to need ultrasound technicians to perform noninvasive imaging. For professionals searching for imaging jobs, this is a field in which you can find roles in hospitals, physician offices, outpatient centers, and mobile imaging services.
What Does a Sonographer Do?
Sonographers operate ultrasound equipment, which sends high-frequency sound waves into the body. As a patient-facing role, there is more to it, though.
Before an examination, the sonographer reviews the imaging order and confirms the patient’s medical history. The sonographer then greets the patient and explains what will happen. The technologist may have the patient sit or lie down, depending on the positioning needed for the scan. They are also responsible for choosing the appropriate transducer.
During the scan, the technologist adjusts the equipment settings and angle of the handheld transducer as needed to capture images of the designated area.
Sonographers work closely with patients. Notably, they are responsible for keeping patients informed without overstepping by sharing too much. Ultrasounds need to be read by multiple people, including a physician and a radiologist, before a patient receives results in most cases.
Sonographer, Technologist, or Technician: What Is the Difference?
Sonographer, ultrasound technologist, and ultrasound technician are three titles that usually refer to the same role. Some other names you may find for the same or similar roles include:
- Diagnostic medical sonographer
- Ultrasound technologist
- Ultrasound technician
- Ultrasonographer
When looking for a job, it’s helpful to look for all terms that could reference the roles you’re looking for, whether you input sonographer jobs, ultrasound tech jobs, ultrasound technologist jobs, or diagnostic medical sonographer jobs. Once you find a promising role, check the job description carefully to ensure you meet the requirements.
Why Become a Sonographer?
Becoming a sonographer puts you in a position to help patients by learning an in-demand skill. Here are some other reasons this role might be for you:
Sonographer Job Outlook and Demand
The outlook for diagnostic medical sonographers is strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment in the profession to grow 13% from 2024 through 2034, which is greater than the projected 3% average for all occupations.
The BLS expects about 5,800 openings for diagnostic medical sonographers each year over the 2024 to 2034 period. Some of those openings will be from people leaving the field, but others will be new openings as demand grows.
How Much Do Sonographers and Ultrasound Techs Make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, diagnostic medical sonographers earned a median annual wage of $89,340 in May 2024. ZipRecruiter, which provides salary estimates by state and at the national level, reported an average national sonographer salary of $110,073 per year, or approximately $52.92 per hour.
Opportunities to Specialize
Sonographers also have the ability to specialize, which can open up new avenues for growth. Common specialties include abdominal sonography and obstetric imaging, vascular ultrasound, breast sonography, or echocardiography.
Additional training and credentials can support advancement into lead technologist or supervisory positions. Experienced sonographers may also decide to work in education or management.
Sonographer Education and Training Requirements
Most sonographers get into the field by obtaining an associate degree or postsecondary certificate program in diagnostic medical sonography. Bachelor’s degree programs are also available, and they can be a good choice if you want to stand out against other candidates with less training or experience.
Overall coursework will vary by program, but it generally covers ultrasound physics, how to run the machine and capture appropriate images, how to work with patients, and anatomy studies. Students also have to learn to evaluate image quality to be sure it meets the needs of the physicians or radiologists who read the images for diagnosis purposes. As a sonographer in training, you will also gain clinical experience with patients, so you can develop real skills before heading to your more permanent role.
The BLS states that diagnostic medical sonographers typically need at least an associate degree or postsecondary certificate. Some positions also require professional certification or a state license. Check with your state board or the employer to learn more about the requirements and/or training opportunities.
Becoming a Sonographer: More on Education
Students can search for accredited programs through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Choosing an accredited program helps adequately prepare students for several professional certification exams required before they can get a permanent role.
Many employers prefer certification through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). ARDMS credentials include the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer designation, and additional credentials are available for cardiac and vascular specialties.
Where To Work as a Sonographer
Sonographers are needed throughout the country, but the salary and benefits you earn vary by role and location, among other factors. Top states for roles as a sonographer include:
- New Hampshire
- Massachusetts
- Texas
- Washington
- Georgia
- Florida
- Virginia
- New York
In Washington, for example, ultrasound techs earn around $124,668 per year, or $59.94 per hour, according to ZipRecruiter data available in July 2026. That being said, remember that benefits, such as paid housing, healthcare plans, time off, and others, should all be considerations when you choose who to work for.
Find Sonographer and Ultrasound Tech Jobs With SHC
If you are interested in working as an ultrasound technologist, Supplemental Health Care can help you find your next role. Search current radiology and imaging jobs with Supplemental Health Care to find the job that suits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the most frequently asked questions about becoming a sonographer and finding the right role.
How long does it take to become a sonographer?
Getting a sonography associate degree typically takes about two years. Certificate programs can take less time, especially if you already have a background in healthcare. With exceptions, bachelor’s degrees usually take up to four years to complete.
What types of sonography can I specialize in?
Sonographers can specialize in abdominal, obstetric, vascular, or cardiac imaging. Breast and musculoskeletal sonography are also available career paths that someone could choose, depending on their current interests or healthcare background.
Where can I find sonographer jobs?
Supplemental Health Care’s job postings can help you find local and travel sonographer jobs, ultrasound tech jobs, and other imaging jobs at facilities across the country.
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