X-ray technician jobs in California: what to know
What an X-ray technician does
X-ray technicians and radiologic technologists take medical images that doctors use to find broken bones, illness and injuries. You position patients, set up the equipment, protect patients and yourself from unnecessary radiation, and make sure the images are clear. Jobs are in hospitals, urgent care centers, orthopedic offices and imaging centers across California.
Two ways to work with X-rays in California
California's Department of Public Health, Radiologic Health Branch, certifies people who use X-ray equipment:
- Certified Radiologic Technologist (CRT): the full-scope certificate. You complete an accredited radiologic technology program, pass the national ARRT radiography exam, and apply for the California CRT. Hospitals usually require this.
- Limited Permit X-ray Technician (XT): allows supervised, limited types of X-rays (for example chest or extremities), often in clinics and urgent care. It's a shorter path, but it doesn't allow full-scope radiology work.
- Fluoroscopy permit: an extra state permit for technologists who use fluoroscopy.
Skills employers look for
- Positioning patients accurately and gently, including people in pain.
- Radiation safety habits.
- Clear communication with patients, nurses and doctors.
- Comfort with digital imaging systems and patient records.
How to get hired
- Decide your path: the XT permit for a faster start in clinics, or a CRT program for hospital jobs and more growth.
- Many limited permit holders also work as medical assistants, which makes them valuable to urgent care clinics.
- Keep your certificates current and list them clearly at the top of your resume.
- After you're a CRT, you can add specialties like CT, MRI or mammography.
Questions people ask
Can a medical assistant take X-rays in California?
Only with the right state certificate or permit, such as the limited permit (XT).
Is radiologic technology a good career?
Imaging is a core part of healthcare, and certified technologists can move into specialties, lead roles and education.
Your pay and breaks in California
- Minimum wage: the statewide minimum is $16.90 an hour in 2026, and many cities set a higher local minimum. Some healthcare employers have their own, higher minimum wage schedule.
- Overtime: most hourly workers earn 1.5 times their pay after 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week, and double pay after 12 hours in a day.
- Breaks: a 30-minute meal break when you work more than 5 hours, and a paid 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked (or major part of 4 hours).
- Pay in job posts: employers with 15 or more workers must include a pay range in their job posts, so check the listing before you apply.
Questions about pay or breaks? The California Labor Commissioner explains your rights and how to file a claim.
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