Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
Diagnostic medical sonographers operate ultrasound equipment to create images of internal organs and tissues for physicians to use in diagnosis and treatment. They work in hospitals, imaging clinics, physician offices, and other healthcare settings, positioning patients and adjusting equipment to capture clear images of organs, blood vessels, and developing fetuses.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against diagnostic medical sonographers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves scanning patients using ultrasound machines, carefully positioning them and applying gel to skin surfaces. Sonographers document findings, communicate with radiologists and physicians about images, and maintain equipment. Work includes standing for extended periods, following safety protocols, and sometimes working evenings or on-call shifts in hospital settings. Tasks are structured and procedural, with clear protocols for each type of scan.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer hands-on work with tangible, concrete results and enjoy following established procedures and standards. You're detail-oriented and reliable, comfortable with medical technology, and value working within a structured healthcare system where your role has clear expectations and direct patient interaction.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $99,510 | $128,530 | $160,580 | 10,110 |
| Hawaii | $112,280 | $124,430 | $129,650 | 210 |
| Washington | $100,430 | $121,340 | $134,810 | 2,190 |
| Oregon | $102,900 | $120,220 | $130,860 | 1,210 |
| District of Columbia | $104,520 | $112,020 | $126,660 | 160 |
| Colorado | $99,440 | $108,410 | $122,960 | 1,430 |
| Massachusetts | $102,170 | $107,480 | $127,650 | 2,190 |
| Alaska | $97,600 | $105,670 | $124,540 | 140 |
| Vermont | $97,330 | $104,100 | $127,890 | 140 |
| New York | $93,140 | $103,920 | $119,850 | 6,880 |
| New Hampshire | $97,640 | $103,760 | $117,470 | 400 |
| Connecticut | $95,900 | $103,230 | $124,100 | 990 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - AB (RMS-AB) — American Registry for Diangostic Medical Sonography
- Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - BR (RMS-BR) — American Registry for Diangostic Medical Sonography
- Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - FE (RMS-FE) — American Registry for Diangostic Medical Sonography
- Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - OB/GYN (RMS-OB/GYN) — American Registry for Diangostic Medical Sonography
- Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - PS (RMS-PS) — American Registry for Diangostic Medical Sonography
- Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer - SPI (RMS-SPI) — American Registry for Diangostic Medical Sonography
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against diagnostic medical sonographers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-2032.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.