Careers in Ultrasound: Clinical Specialist. Is it for you?

by Lori Green, BA, RT, RDMS, RDCS, RVT, Founder, President and Program Director

The Sonography profession is very dynamic and offers a diverse number of employment opportunities.  Many sonographers have reached a point in their career where they desire a change or new challenge to allow further professional growth.  Often times, the transition to a new position is a difficult decision to make, particularly if key factors about the job and associated responsibilities are unclear.  What better way to learn about various opportunities than to talk with someone who has “been there, done that!”

In each issue of “Sound Insights”, we will profile a variety of job opportunities to help you decide which ultrasound career path may best fit your goals. 

JOB PROFILE: CLINICAL SPECIALIST: ULTRASOUND EQUIPMENT COMPANY

Several clinical specialists from different ultrasound equipment companies were interviewed and asked to describe general job responsibilities, including advantages and disadvantages of working in this position.  The clinical specialists interviewed have worked in the ultrasound profession between 19-31 years.  Three have worked as a clinical specialist for 10+ years and one less than one year.

All of the clinical specialists considered this position as an opportunity to learn new techniques, remain current with new technology, travel, work with a diverse group of industry leaders, and to challenge ones-self to be the best they can be.

KEY FACTS TO CONSIDER

1.  What are the primary responsibilities of a clinical specialist?

• Demonstrate equipment for sale
• Applications and training customers on the use of the ultrasound equipment
• Assist with tradeshows and training seminars
• Lecture presentations
• Customer support

2.  How much travel is required and the average number of hours worked per week?

• Average of 3-4 days of overnight travel per week
• Daily work hours average 12-16 hrs/day.  Average 60 hours/week. (one individual interviewed averages 60-80 hours/week)
• Weekend work often required
• Depending on geographical region, travel may be primarily by car, air, or combination of both

3.  Describe a typical day in the life of a Clinical Specialist.

• All stated “there is no typical day…each day offers a new challenge, but…”
a. Get up, travel to account or event
b. Demonstrate equipment, train customer, or assist with tradeshow
c. Meet a dozen or so people…try to remember their names!
d. Try to squeeze in a lunch and bathroom break
e. Travel to next location, check into hotel, respond to e-mails, and do it all over again the next day.

4.  Describe key advantages and disadvantages of this position.

Advantages

• Ability to be on leading edge of R & D
• Meeting and working with a lot of great people
• Professional challenge

Disadvantages

• Travel hassles
• Long hours
• Lonely position
• Interferes with personal/ family activities

5.  What are the typical minimum requirements to be considered for this position?  Varies with company, but most stated:

• Most companies want a minimum of 3-5 years of ultrasound experience
• Multi-specialty a must: most require minimum of 2 specialties (more better)

6.  What are the Keys to success in this position?

• You MUST really want to do this job
• You must be willing to deal with travel hassles, work long hours, and be away from family and friends
• Must be organized, able to multi-task, and work independently

7.  What words of wisdom can you offer to those considering this position?

• Talk it over with family and friends before accepting a position
• Start as a per diem clinical specialist to see if the job is right for you before accepting a full-time position
• Ask lots of questions, be confident, and be a good listener
• Weigh the benefits/disadvantages and compare to what you want to accomplish

8.  Million Dollar Question:  What is the average Salary?

Salary varies on number of specialty certifications, experience, and other factors, but typically it ranges between $81,000-$90,000.

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If you have any suggestions for future job profiles, please send us an e-mail to soundinsights@gcus.com.