A career as an X-ray technician at Kaiser Permanente offers competitive salaries, great benefits, and opportunities for career advancement. As one of the largest healthcare organizations in the United States, Kaiser Permanente employs skilled radiologic technologists to perform diagnostic imaging procedures that help doctors diagnose and treat medical conditions.
For those considering a career as an X-ray tech at Kaiser, understanding the salary, job responsibilities, and career growth potential is essential. This topic provides a detailed breakdown of salaries, benefits, and factors that affect earnings.
What Does an X-Ray Technician at Kaiser Permanente Do?
An X-ray technician, also known as a radiologic technologist, is responsible for capturing high-quality images of a patient’s internal structures. These images help physicians diagnose conditions such as fractures, infections, and diseases.
Key Responsibilities
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Preparing patients for X-ray procedures.
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Operating radiologic imaging equipment safely.
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Positioning patients to obtain accurate images.
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Following radiation safety protocols.
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Collaborating with doctors and radiologists to ensure high-quality imaging.
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Maintaining and calibrating X-ray machines.
X-Ray Tech Salary at Kaiser Permanente
1. United States National Average
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Entry-Level (0-2 years of experience): $65,000 – $80,000 per year.
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Mid-Level (3-5 years of experience): $80,000 – $95,000 per year.
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Senior-Level (5+ years of experience): $95,000 – $110,000 per year.
2. Salary by Location
California (Highest Paying State)
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Entry-Level: $70,000 – $85,000 per year.
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Mid-Level: $85,000 – $100,000 per year.
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Senior-Level: $100,000 – $120,000 per year.
Washington
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Entry-Level: $65,000 – $78,000 per year.
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Mid-Level: $78,000 – $92,000 per year.
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Senior-Level: $92,000 – $110,000 per year.
Oregon
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Entry-Level: $63,000 – $77,000 per year.
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Mid-Level: $77,000 – $90,000 per year.
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Senior-Level: $90,000 – $105,000 per year.
3. Hourly Wage for X-Ray Techs at Kaiser
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Entry-Level: $32 – $38 per hour.
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Mid-Level: $38 – $45 per hour.
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Senior-Level: $45 – $55 per hour.
4. Factors That Affect X-Ray Tech Salaries at Kaiser
Several factors influence how much an X-ray technician at Kaiser earns.
1. Experience and Certification
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Newly certified X-ray techs earn lower salaries compared to experienced professionals.
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Advanced certifications in CT, MRI, or fluoroscopy can lead to higher earnings.
2. Location
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Salaries vary significantly based on geographic location and cost of living.
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Major cities in California, Washington, and Oregon offer higher wages.
3. Work Schedule
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Night shifts, weekends, and holidays often come with higher hourly pay.
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Full-time employees earn more than part-time or per diem workers.
4. Union Representation
- Many Kaiser Permanente X-ray techs are part of labor unions, which negotiate better wages and benefits.
Additional Benefits for Kaiser Permanente X-Ray Technicians
In addition to a competitive salary, Kaiser offers several employee benefits.
1. Healthcare and Insurance Benefits
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Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
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Disability insurance and life insurance.
2. Retirement Plans
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401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions.
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Pension plans for long-term employees.
3. Paid Time Off and Leave Policies
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Generous PTO, sick leave, and vacation days.
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Parental leave for new parents.
4. Overtime and Shift Differentials
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Overtime pay at 1.5x or 2x the standard hourly rate.
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Extra pay for night shifts, weekends, and holidays.
5. Tuition Reimbursement and Career Development
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Kaiser offers tuition assistance for employees seeking career advancement.
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Training programs for specialized imaging certifications.
Career Growth Opportunities for X-Ray Techs at Kaiser
Kaiser Permanente encourages career development, allowing X-ray technicians to advance into higher-paying roles.
1. Specializing in Advanced Modalities
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MRI Technologist: $90,000 – $120,000 per year.
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CT Scan Technologist: $85,000 – $110,000 per year.
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Fluoroscopy Technologist: $90,000 – $115,000 per year.
2. Promotion to Supervisory Roles
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Lead X-Ray Technologist: $100,000 – $125,000 per year.
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Radiology Supervisor or Manager: $120,000 – $150,000 per year.
3. Transition into Healthcare Administration
- Some X-ray techs move into hospital administration, training, or quality assurance roles.
Is a Career as an X-Ray Tech at Kaiser Worth It?
Pros
✔ High salary compared to national averages.
✔ Comprehensive health benefits.
✔ Strong career growth opportunities.
✔ Union representation for fair wages.
Cons
✖ Physically demanding job (standing for long hours).
✖ Shift-based work, including weekends and holidays.
✖ High expectations for accuracy and patient care.
A career as an X-ray technician at Kaiser Permanente offers competitive salaries, strong benefits, and long-term career growth. Entry-level salaries start at around $65,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning over $100,000 annually in high-paying locations.
With union protection, tuition assistance, and career advancement opportunities, working as an X-ray tech at Kaiser is a stable and rewarding career choice. Those who specialize in advanced imaging techniques or move into management positions can further increase their earnings and job security.