Job Outlook

Employment of EKG Technicians is projected to grow 39 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. As imaging technology evolves, medical facilities will use it to replace more invasive, costly procedures. Technological advances and less expensive equipment now allow more procedures to be done outside of hospitals. Third-party payers encourage the use of these noninvasive measures over invasive ones.

Although hospitals remain the primary employer of cardiovascular technologists and technicians employment is projected to grow more rapidly in physicians' offices and in medical and diagnostic laboratories. Employment in these healthcare settings is projected to increase because of a shift toward outpatient care whenever possible.

As the large baby-boom population ages and people remain active later in life, the need to diagnose medical conditions—such as blood clots and tumors—will likely increase, and imaging technology is a tool used in making these diagnoses. Additionally, federal health legislation will expand the number of patients who have access to health insurance, increasing patient access to medical care. Diagnostic imaging workers will continue to be needed to use and maintain the equipment needed for diagnosis and treatment.

EKG Technicians who have completed a formal education program and gained certification may enjoy favorable job prospects. In addition, opportunities may be better for candidates who speak a foreign language.

In May 2012, the median annual wage for a cardiovascular technician was $52,070. The lowest 10% earned less than $27,830 and the top 10% eared more than $80,790. Most workers work full-time; because they work in facilities that are always open, some work evenings, weekends, or overnight.