What Does a Radiation Therapist Do: Responsibilities, Requirements, and Salary for 2026

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Aspiring healthcare workers feel uncertain about what a radiation therapist actually does and how to begin a career in this specialized healthcare field. With the rising demand for cancer treatments, hospitals and clinics are struggling to fill positions. Recent data shows that the vacancy rate for radiation therapists in the U.S. stands at 13.6%, highlighting a growing need for qualified professionals.

This article explains the key responsibilities, educational requirements, and salary expectations of radiation therapists. Prepared by experts in career planning, it aims to provide clarity and guidance to help readers move confidently toward this rewarding profession.

Key Things You Should Know About What Does a Radiation Therapist Do

A radiation therapist can advance into roles such as lead therapist, clinical supervisor, dosimetrist, or radiation therapy educator, with opportunities to specialize in advanced treatment techniques.
Employment for radiation therapists is projected to grow 2% from 2024 to 2034, driven by ongoing advancements in cancer treatment and an aging population.
Radiation therapists in the United States earn an average annual salary of $105,300, or about $51 per hour, reflecting the high skill level and responsibility required in this field.

What does a radiation therapist do?

A radiation therapist provides critical care in the treatment of cancer and other diseases, ensuring that patients receive precise and safe radiation therapy as prescribed by oncologists. Radiation therapists typically do the following:

Explain Treatment Plans: Clearly explain the radiation therapy process, potential side effects, and strategies to manage discomfort so patients feel informed and reassured.
Radiation Safety: Follow strict protocols and use protective equipment to prevent unnecessary radiation exposure for patients and themselves.
Tumor Localization: Use imaging technology to determine the precise tumor location and ensure accurate patient positioning for each session.
Machine Operation and Calibration: Set up, calibrate, and operate radiation therapy machines to deliver the exact prescribed dose safely and accurately.
Patient Monitoring: Observe patients during treatment to detect unusual reactions and provide immediate support or intervention.
Documentation and Record-Keeping: Maintain detailed records of each session, including doses, reactions, and progress, to ensure continuity of care.

Radiation therapists are integral members of oncology teams, collaborating to integrate medical expertise, patient support, and technology for highly personalized and effective treatment. They often work with the following specialists:

Medical Dosimetrists: Calculate precise radiation doses tailored to each patient’s tumor characteristics
Medical Physicists: Develop and verify treatment plans, ensure machine calibration, and improve safety protocols
Oncology Nurses: Monitor patients’ health, manage side effects, and provide emotional support during treatment
Radiation Oncologists: Prescribe and oversee therapy, adjusting treatment plans based on patient response
Other Healthcare Professionals: Radiation therapists coordinate with surgeons, primary care physicians, nutritionists, mental health counselors, and social workers to provide comprehensive patient care. Professionals with a background in allied health can also explore careers with an associate’s in medical assisting to broaden their opportunities in patient support and clinical settings.

What are the educational requirements to become a radiation therapist?

Becoming a radiation therapist requires a structured educational path that combines medical science with advanced technology. Employers seek candidates with formal training in radiation therapy and a strong understanding of anatomy, physics, and patient care.

Educational requirements include:

Associate or Bachelor’s Degree: Most radiation therapists earn an associate or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy, radiologic technology, or a related health science field.
Accredited Program Completion: Students must graduate from a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) to qualify for certification.
Core Coursework: Students study anatomy, radiation physics, oncology, patient care, and radiation safety to build essential clinical and technical skills.
Clinical Training: Hands-on clinical rotations in hospitals or cancer centers provide essential experience operating radiation equipment and assisting patients.
Certification Preparation: Graduates typically prepare for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam, which is required in most states.
Continuing Education: Licensed therapists complete ongoing education to stay updated on new treatment technologies and safety standards. Some professionals also pursue an MSN in health systems management programs online to advance into leadership, administration, or management roles within healthcare organizations.

Overall, 39% of radiation therapists major in biochemistry, biophysics, or molecular biology, highlighting the value of a strong scientific background. Many students also pursue focused coursework in radiation oncology to strengthen their technical and clinical expertise before entering the field.

The chart below shows the most common degrees pursued by aspiring radiation therapists.

What are the required skills to become a radiation therapist?

To succeed as a radiation therapist, professionals must possess a balanced combination of technical and soft skills. These abilities enable them to deliver precise and safe radiation therapy, collaborate effectively with oncology teams, and provide high-quality patient care.

Technical Skills Required for Radiation Therapists

Radiation therapists rely on technical expertise to perform their daily responsibilities efficiently. Here are the key technical skills they must develop:

Patient Treatment: Proficiency in administering radiation therapy according to prescribed treatment plans, cited by 5.54% of radiation therapists as a critical skill.
Dosimetry: Understanding radiation dosages and calculating precise treatment parameters, highlighted by 3.66% of professionals.
Treatment Planning: Ability to interpret treatment plans and coordinate with oncologists and dosimetrists, emphasized by 3.55% of radiation therapists.
Patient Monitoring: Skill in using imaging technology and monitoring systems to ensure correct tumor targeting and safety, reflected by 27.99% of therapists focusing on patient care accuracy.
Collaboration with Radiation Oncologists: Technical knowledge to effectively follow oncologists’ prescriptions and adapt treatment as needed, cited by 8.43% of radiation therapists.

Soft Skills Required for Radiation Therapists

In addition to technical abilities, radiation therapists must excel in interpersonal and organizational skills to thrive in team-based healthcare settings. Key soft skills include:

Patient Care and Communication: Providing compassionate care and clearly explaining treatment processes, important to 8.98% of therapists.
Attention to Detail: Ensuring treatments are delivered safely and accurately, minimizing risk to patients.
Critical Thinking: Identifying potential issues during treatment and making quick, informed decisions.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Coordinating with oncologists, nurses, dosimetrists, and other healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes.
Confidentiality and Professionalism: Managing sensitive patient information with integrity and following ethical standards.

Where do radiation therapists work?

Radiation therapists work primarily in health care settings, providing cancer treatment and patient support, but they can also be employed in education, research, and other industries. Common workplaces for radiation therapists include:

Health Care: About 80% of radiation therapists work in hospitals, cancer treatment centers, or outpatient clinics, delivering radiation therapy and monitoring patient progress.
Education: Around 7% work in academic institutions, training future radiation therapists or conducting research on treatment techniques.
Nonprofits: Approximately 3% are employed in nonprofit organizations focused on cancer care, patient advocacy, or health education.
Professional Services: About 2% work in professional service settings, such as consulting or medical advisory roles related to oncology.
Other Industries: The remaining 5% work in pharmaceutical companies, manufacturing, government programs, start-ups, or Fortune 500 companies, supporting research, treatment technology development, or health initiatives.

Radiation therapist positions are heavily concentrated in the private healthcare sector, which employs about 86% of professionals in this field. On average, radiation therapists tend to stay in their roles for 1–2 years, highlighting both the dynamic nature of the profession and opportunities for growth or advancement.

How much do radiation therapists earn?

Radiation therapists in the United States earn an average annual salary of $105,300, which equals approximately $51 per hour. Salaries can vary significantly depending on several key factors such as experience, education, and location. Below are the major factors that influence how much a radiation therapist can earn:

Experience Level: Entry-level radiation therapists earn about $103,264, while top earners make around $110,763 annually.
Location: Pay varies by region, with the highest salaries in California ($116,100) and the lowest in Mississippi ($93,900).
Education: Radiation therapists with a doctorate earn about $96,888, while those with a bachelor’s degree average $85,231.
Company Type: Large hospitals and cancer centers generally offer higher pay, with specialized roles exceeding $120,000 per year.

In addition to base pay, radiation therapists typically receive comprehensive benefits packages, including social security (5.6%), healthcare (4.6%), pension (3.1%), and paid time off (9.2%), bringing total average compensation to about $137,020 per year.

How to Start Your Career as a Radiation Therapist

Starting a career as a radiation therapist involves completing formal education, gaining hands-on clinical experience, and earning professional certification. Following these key steps helps you enter the field prepared to provide safe and effective cancer treatments.

Obtain Relevant Education: Enroll in an accredited associate or bachelor’s degree program in radiation therapy or a related science to build a strong academic foundation.
Complete a Clinical Internship: Participate in supervised clinical rotations at hospitals or cancer treatment centers to gain hands-on experience with radiation equipment and patient care.
Earn Professional Certification: Pass the ARRT certification exam to demonstrate technical competence and meet state and employer qualification standards.
Pursue State Licensure: Review your state’s licensing requirements, as most states require certification, licensure, and continuing education to practice legally.
Apply for Entry-Level Positions: Seek employment in hospitals, oncology clinics, or radiation centers to start building experience under the guidance of senior therapists.
Continue Professional Development: Enroll in continuing education courses to stay updated on new radiation technologies, safety procedures, and treatment techniques. Radiation therapists can also explore sterile processing technician careers to broaden skills and open more healthcare opportunities.

total number of registered radiation therapists

What are common career advancement opportunities for radiation therapists?

Radiation therapists can advance their careers by gaining specialized skills, pursuing higher education, and taking on leadership or educational responsibilities within healthcare settings. Below are the most common career advancement opportunities for professionals in this field:

Specialization in Advanced Therapies: Many therapists specialize in cutting-edge techniques like proton therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, or brachytherapy to enhance their expertise and value.
Leadership and Management Roles: Experienced therapists often move into senior or chief therapist positions, overseeing treatment teams, quality assurance, and departmental operations.
Education and Training: Some professionals become clinical instructors or program directors, teaching future radiation therapy students in academic or hospital-based programs.
Dosimetry or Medical Physics Pathways: With additional education, therapists may transition into medical dosimetry or medical physics, focusing on treatment planning and radiation dose calculation.
Research and Clinical Development: Those interested in innovation can explore clinical research careers, participating in studies or technology development projects that aim to improve radiation therapy outcomes.
Continuing Education and Certifications: Earning advanced certifications or graduate degrees strengthens professional credentials and opens doors to specialized or administrative roles.

What is the job outlook for radiation therapists?

Radiation therapist jobs remain stable, reflecting the continued need for skilled professionals in cancer treatment and radiation therapy services. Employment of radiation therapists is projected to grow 2% from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations, but the field continues to offer steady career opportunities due to ongoing healthcare demands.

Despite modest growth, about 900 job openings for radiation therapists are projected each year over the decade, largely due to workforce replacement needs as experienced professionals retire or move into related healthcare roles. These consistent openings ensure a reliable pathway for new graduates entering the field.

Over the past five years, radiation therapist salaries have increased by approximately 8%, reflecting the specialized expertise required and the essential role these professionals play in oncology care. With cancer treatment technologies advancing and patient care standards rising, radiation therapy remains a secure and rewarding career choice within the healthcare sector.

What challenges do radiation therapists typically face?

Radiation therapists face several challenges that affect their work environment, emotional well-being, and professional growth. Below are the most common challenges they encounter in the field:

1. Exposure to Radiation Risks

Radiation therapists work in environments with constant exposure to ionizing radiation. Although safety protocols and protective equipment minimize risk, 55% report being exposed to radiation every day. Consistent adherence to safety procedures and regular monitoring are essential to prevent long-term health effects.

2. High Workload and Scheduling Pressure

Therapists often manage a high number of patients each day, especially in public healthcare settings. Studies show that nearly 16% of respondents cite patient workload as their primary clinical distraction. Balancing treatment schedules while maintaining accuracy can lead to physical fatigue and mental stress.

3. Emotional Stress from Patient Care

Working closely with cancer patients over long treatment periods can take an emotional toll. About 40% of radiation therapists report burnout and anxiety affecting their ability to deliver care effectively. Compassion fatigue can develop when managing both patient emotions and personal well-being.

4. Technological Advancements and Training Demands

New radiation therapy technologies require continuous learning and retraining. Frequent upgrades in equipment and treatment planning systems increase the demand for technical adaptability. Therapists must stay current to ensure patient safety and maintain compliance with evolving standards.

5. Balancing Precision and Patient Interaction

The role requires exceptional precision, as even minor errors can have serious consequences. At the same time, therapists must provide emotional support and comfort to patients undergoing treatment. Maintaining both technical accuracy and compassionate communication can be challenging under time constraints.

What are the alternative career options for radiation therapists?

Radiation therapists have a range of alternative career paths that allow them to apply their medical, technical, and patient-care expertise in related healthcare and research fields. Below are the most common career options for radiation therapists:

1. Medical Dosimetrist

Medical dosimetrists design and calculate radiation treatment plans based on oncologists’ prescriptions. They work closely with radiation oncologists and medical physicists to ensure accurate radiation dosage for each patient.

Median salary: $129,364 per year

2. Radiologic Technologist

Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging procedures such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. Radiation therapists looking to expand their skills can pursue a surgical tech certificate online or related programs, which can help them transition into imaging and diagnostic support roles in hospitals and clinics.

Median salary: $95,196 per year

3. Radiation Oncology Clinical Educator

Clinical educators train new radiation therapy students and staff, develop curriculum, and ensure compliance with safety and procedural standards. This role suits experienced therapists with a passion for teaching.

Median salary: $368,086 per year

4. Medical Equipment Sales Specialist

Therapists with strong technical knowledge often transition into medical equipment sales or product training roles, helping healthcare providers select and operate radiation therapy or imaging systems.

Median salary: $87,398 per year

5. Healthcare Administrator

Healthcare administrators oversee operations, budgets, and staffing in hospitals, cancer centers, and clinics. Former radiation therapists bring valuable insight into clinical workflow and patient safety.

Median salary: $94,295 per year

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Radiation Therapy Careers

Kathleen: "I transitioned from a general radiography background to radiation therapy because I wanted to specialize and make a bigger difference in cancer care. The online program gave me the structure to upskill without stepping away from my job. Now, I’m part of an oncology team, helping patients through one of the most critical phases of their recovery."

Jonas: "My goal was to upskill and advance from diagnostic imaging into a more specialized field. The online coursework in dosimetry and treatment planning gave me the edge I needed to step into a higher-paying, more impactful position. It’s rewarding to know my career growth also means helping patients fight cancer with confidence."

Sean: "When my hospital expanded its oncology department, I saw an opportunity to grow my career. I enrolled in an online radiation therapy program to upskill quickly while continuing my shifts. That choice not only boosted my earning potential but also deepened my understanding of how technology saves lives."

Key Findings

The most common degree for radiation therapists is an associate degree, held by 40.3% of professionals, reflecting the emphasis on focused technical training in the field.
About 28% of radiation therapists prioritize patient monitoring skills, using imaging technology and safety protocols to ensure precise tumor targeting and high-quality patient care.
The majority of radiation therapist positions, roughly 86%, are in the private healthcare sector, highlighting where most employment opportunities are concentrated.
There are approximately 23,000 registered radiation therapists currently practicing in the U.S., representing a specialized and in-demand workforce.
Each year, around 900 job openings are projected, largely due to retirements and workforce replacement needs, creating steady opportunities for new professionals entering the field.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Radiation Therapist

How long does it take to become a radiation therapist?

It usually takes two to four years to become a radiation therapist. Most professionals complete an associate or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy or a related field. Programs include classroom instruction and clinical training. Graduates must also pass a national certification exam. Choosing an accredited program helps ensure eligibility for licensure and employment in hospitals or cancer treatment centers.

Can radiation therapists specialize in specific cancer treatments?

Yes, radiation therapists can specialize in certain cancer treatments. Many focus on areas such as pediatric oncology, stereotactic radiosurgery, or proton therapy. Specialization often requires additional certification or advanced clinical experience. These roles involve working closely with oncologists and medical physicists to tailor treatments for complex cancer cases. Specializing can enhance career growth and expertise in cutting-edge radiation techniques.

What is the difference between a radiation therapist and a radiation oncologist?

A radiation therapist administers radiation treatments prescribed by a radiation oncologist. The therapist operates equipment, positions patients, and ensures safety during therapy sessions. In contrast, a radiation oncologist is a physician who diagnoses cancer, develops treatment plans, and oversees patient progress. Both work together as part of a cancer care team, but their education and responsibilities differ significantly.

Is certification required to work as a radiation therapist?

Yes, certification is required in most states. Radiation therapists must pass the ARRT certification exam after completing an accredited program. Some states also require a separate license to practice. Maintaining certification involves continuing education to stay updated on new technologies, treatment methods, and radiation safety standards. Certification ensures professional competence and patient safety.

References

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