New Mexico is the nation’s own blend of Hispanic and American culture at its finest. Nicknamed the “Land of Enchantment,” it is the 36th most populated state. The state’s leading industries are oil and gas, government, and tourism. For workers in the health care industry, though, finding work can be difficult because of the distribution of the population. There were 300 total diagnostic medical sonographers employed in the state in 2013 with total employment expected to reach 650 by 2020.
The median annual salary for ultrasound technicians working in New Mexico is $68,100 which is slightly above the national median. Fortunately for aspiring technicians, there projected to be a 39% increase in total employment between 2010 and 2020.
Certification Requirements in New Mexico
Certification is not required for ultrasound technicians seeking employment in New Mexico. The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) oversees an optional exam, though, for those who would like to become certified. Many employers prefer those candidates who have become certified by ARDMS. In terms of education, there are two schools – Central New Mexico Community College and Dona Ana Community College – that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, or CAAHEP.
Ultrasound Technician Salary in New Mexico
Ultrasound technicians who worked in New Mexico in 2013 earned a median annual salary of $68,100. The national median for diagnostic medical sonographers in 2013 was $66,400. The top 10% of ultrasound technicians in New Mexico earned an average salary of $89,300 while the bottom 10% averaged $40,000 annual. On an hourly basis, technicians in New Mexico made a median hourly wage of $32.74 in 2013.
There is a positive outlook for the industry in New Mexico. The New Mexico Department of Labor anticipates 39% growth in total employment between 2010 and 2020. If this is correct, there should be 650 total technicians employed in the state by 2020. Employment growth couple with net replacement is projected to open 30 jobs per year.
New Mexico Diagnostic Medical Sonographers Salary by Local Area:
| Local Area | Median Hourly Wage | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| New Mexico (all) | $32.74 | $68,100 |
| Albuquerque, NM | $32.76 | $68,100 |
| Las Cruces, NM | $31.76 | $66,100 |
| Santa Fe, NM | $36.64 | $76,200 |
Source: New Mexico Wage Information (2013)
Recommended Programs
More Ultrasound Schools in New Mexico
Other diagnostic medical sonography schools in New Mexico include:
| School Name | School Address |
|---|---|
| Central New Mexico Community College | 525 Buena Vista SE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87106 |
| New Mexico State University-Dona Ana | 3400 S Espina, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003 |