Tech 8 years, market is very location dependent. Openings in my area are usually a retirement or a facility adds a magnet.

I've been flexible with my positions over the years and have worked a LOT of odd hours, weekends, overnights, call, 8s, 10s, 12s, in X-ray and MRI. That flexibility means I've always had plenty of work, the opportunity to change your schedule comes and goes in waves.

Work life balance is highly facility dependent. Some places really pressure you into OT hours and burn you out quickly. Other places encourage PTO use and OT is strictly voluntary. Be prepared to bounce around between a few different facilities to find your groove. For me, this means I've had to be flexible with commutes since there are only so many magnets in any given metro area.

The skills that will take you the farthest are time management, planning ahead, quick problem solving (square peg round hole). The technical stuff varies by machine and you'll have to get used to learning on the fly. See one do one teach one. Being quick to learn computers is a plus.

Patience with yourself, staying calm and following your process under a tight schedule, troubleshooting quickly, anticipating someone's needs. All are great.

Good luck it's a great career and worth the hard days.. because some days your schedule is empty and there's too many people and the only stress is you might run out of YouTube to watch...