Cardiovascular Technician

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Work Tasks

• Run an Electrocardiograph (EKG) machine which records heartbeats and their strength
• Put electrodes on the chest, arms, and legs of the patient
• Run the control switches on the EKG machine while it records heartbeats
• Get the EKG reading ready for the doctor
• Work indoors in hospitals, cardiologists' offices, cardiac rehab centers, insurance companies, and clinics
• Work with electrocardiograph machines, rolls of paper and ink, forms, and office equipment

Salary, Size & Growth

• $48,500 average per year ($23.25 per hour)
• A medium occupation (62,300 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.8% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 2-year degree in the health care field or nursing
• Employers Prefer: A 4-year degree and experience in cardiovascular care
• Skills/Courses: College courses include cardiac catheterization, echocardiography, vascular ultrasound, and cardiographic techniques.
• Certification/Licensing: Certification is available.