Medical Radiation Technologist

Overview

As a member of the military, Medical Radiation Technologists provide diagnostic imaging services for health care professionals, which are used to diagnose and treat medical and surgical conditions.

Responsibilities

• Provide patient care
• Produce diagnostic examinations
• Assist radiologists, medical specialists and medical officers
• Maintain equipment, accessories and supplies
• Maintain a Quality Assurance Program

Work environment

Medical Radiation Technologists work in modern and fully equipped clinics across Canada. They can also be deployed on missions around the world or on ships at sea.

If you join the Regular Force, after completing all required training you will be assigned to your first base. Postings can involve relocations, and accommodations aren’t always available. If you join the Primary Reserve Force, you will train and work part time with a specific Reserve unit and may have more geographic stability, with typical scheduling including one night per week and some weekends, with possibilities of full-time employment.

Entry plans

• Direct Entry Options
• Paid Education Options

If you already have a college diploma or baccalaureate degree from an accredited Medical Radiological Technology program, certification with the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists (CAMRT) or OTIMROEPMQ, and a current unrestricted license or registration by a recognized regulatory authority with a letter of good standing, the CAF may place you directly into a military medical clinic after basic training. Basic training is required before assignment to a military medical clinic.

Non-Commissioned Member Subsidized Entry Training Plan (NCMSTEP) provides paid training to attend a diploma program at an approved Canadian college. NCMSTEP students receive a salary, medical and dental care, and vacation time with full pay in exchange for serving with the CAF for a period of time. Applicants must apply to both the CAF and the appropriate college.

For more information, contact a Canadian Forces Health Services Recruiter: HSRecruiting-RecrutementSS@forces.gc.ca

Training

The first stage of training is the Basic Military Qualification course (Basic Training) at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. This course develops core skills for all trades and maintains CAF physical fitness standards. Medical Radiation Technologists are posted to a medical unit in Canada and may have opportunities to participate in field operation training.

Applicants enrolled in NCMSTEP may complete a portion or all of their Basic Occupational Qualification Training at an approved Canadian college or university.

Medical Radiation Technologists may receive specialized training on the job, including:

• Diagnostic Medical Sonography
• Computed Tomography

Advanced training may be offered to individuals who demonstrate the required ability and potential.

Part time options

Most Medical Radiation Technologists serve in the Regular Force. Limited opportunities exist for service in the Reserve Force. Reserve members must maintain civilian currency and may be called on for backfill or operational tasks as needed. Reserve personnel may be assigned to work at a clinic or on an operational deployment during shortages.

Reserve Force members are held on a Primary Reserve list and undergo regular CAF readiness preparation (approximately 12 days per year). They may receive part-time or full-time opportunities based on operational needs. Compensation includes 92.8 percent of Regular Force pay, a benefits package, and potential pension eligibility.

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