How to Become a Travel Ultrasound Tech

Are you wondering how to become a travel ultrasound technician? Within this blog, we’ll break down the steps to take and share tips to help you succeed so that you can make the most of each assignment.

Ready to take your ultrasound technician career on the road? Let's dive in!

Steps to become a travel ultrasound technician
Benefits of becoming a travel ultrasound technician
How to make the most out of your travel assignments
Start your travel ultrasound technician job with Favorite

Steps to become a travel ultrasound technician

If you’re already an ultrasound technician, you've likely completed several of these steps. For those new to the field or anyone interested in pursuing this career, each is an essential read and worth reviewing.

1. Gain the right education

You need to complete either your associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography or a bachelor's degree in science with a focus on sonography. Associate degrees take two years to complete, while bachelor's degrees take four years to complete. Some opt for earning their bachelor's degree because it allows for the potential to advance their career and work in a leadership role.

You’ll want to ensure that your program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS) so you’re prepared to pass the certification exam.

2. Get certified

Traveling and non-traveling ultrasound technicians need to pass an exam to earn their certification. The most common certification that ultrasound techs get is the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) credential that is offered through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). After passing the exam that this program administers, you’ll be certified.

3. Obtain your license

Depending on the state you plan on working in, you may need to obtain a license. Most states, however, do not currently require ultrasound technologists to hold them. The states that do are New Mexico, New Hampshire, Oregon, and North Dakota.

4. Gain experience

If you’re already a practicing ultrasound technician, you’ll likely have a lot of valuable experience under your belt, but if you’re new to the field, you’ll want to prioritize advancing your skills.

Most travel ultrasound jobs require between one and three years of experience. This is because travel assignments require you to be adaptable, quick on your feet and confident in new environments. During your year of clinical rotations, you'll gain valuable hands-on experience while learning from seasoned professionals. After graduation, it is recommended that you continue to build on your experience, especially through hospital work, which many healthcare providers consider essential.

5. Start applying to jobs

Once you’re certified and ready to become a travel ultrasound tech, it's important to connect with a travel staffing agency you can trust.

Partnering with an experienced agency like Favorite, who has plenty of experience, a solid reputation, excellent customer service, and reliable staff, can help you to secure travel assignments that truly align with your career goals and personal preferences.

During the onboarding process, you'll discuss your education, experience, certifications, career goals, and ideal locations. This allows the agency to find opportunities that match your skills and ambitions, making your transition into travel work seamless and fulfilling.

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Benefits of becoming a traveling ultrasound technician

Earn higher pay

One of the most valued benefits of becoming a travel ultrasound technician is the pay that is associated with the profession. Areas that are in high demand for ultrasound technicians will be willing to pay a lot more than locations that are fully staffed. Travel ultrasound tech jobs can be very rewarding when you get the chance to work in areas that need your skills and expertise the most.

Explore the country

If you love adventures and exploring new places, why not get paid for it? When you work a travel ultrasound tech job, you’re able to experience new cities and create memories with each assignment you take. From mountains to oceans, you’ll get the chance to see it all. You can even travel with family or pets, so there’s no need to leave loved ones behind.

Gain experience

A major benefit to becoming a travel ultrasound technician is the experience you gain along the way. When you work in diverse settings with a wide array of people, you pick up new skills and expand your knowledge all while on the clock. This is also great for growing your network as you constantly get to meet new people and colleagues.

Experience flexibility

Since you get to choose when and where you work, this gives you a better sense of autonomy and flexibility in your day-to-day life. You don’t have to work on any assignment that you don’t want to, so you’re able to choose the perfect job that fits your needs. Take control of your schedule with travel assignments and even experience a better work-life balance because of it.

How to make the most out of your travel assignments

When you become a travel ultrasound technician, you’ll want to take advantage of this amazing opportunity to explore the country. No matter where you are on your assignment, get out and try new foods, experiences, and activities. If you end up near the mountains, take a hike! If you find yourself in a small town, investigate its history and maybe visit a museum.

Wherever you travel on your assignment, there will be new experiences to have. For tips on exploring a new city and meeting new people, you can read our must-have apps for travel healthcare workers.

Each travel destination has its own advantages, so remember to make the most of them!

Become a travel ultrasound technician with Favorite

We hope you were able to get a better idea of how to become a travel ultrasound technician by reading our blog.

At Favorite, we can help you enjoy the flexibility, adventure, and higher pay rates that travel assignments offer. Whether you’re a new graduate stepping into the field for the first time or an experienced ultrasound technician with years of experience, we would be happy to support you in finding your first travel assignment.

Be sure to search our open travel ultrasound technician jobs today.